The traditional art of the Emirates is attracting international attention thanks to the 'Doorway to Abu Dhabi' festival, which is being held in Manezhnaya Square in Moscow. This large-scale cultural event, extended until August 23, 2026, aims to demonstrate the heritage of the United Arab Emirates and promote international cultural diplomacy.
The festival is organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi with the support of the Government of Moscow and the UAE Embassy in the Russian Federation. It is aimed at promoting the culture, heritage, creativity, and hospitality of Abu Dhabi.
The festival program includes live performances featuring traditional Emirati music in ensemble, duet, and solo formats, as well as demonstrations of traditional performing arts such as Al-Ayyala and Al-Hurbiya. It is worth noting that Al-Ayyala is included in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Videos of these traditional dance performances have gone viral on social media, showing people in kandura attire performing against the backdrop of magnificent old Moscow buildings while spectators gather to watch the show.
This free public festival, created to embody the spirit of Abu Dhabi, combines live performances, demonstrations, traditional crafts, authentic Emirati cuisine, and interactive workshops.
Visitors planning future trips or discovering this region for the first time can experience the warm hospitality of the Emirates by exploring the traditions, stories, and experiences that define Abu Dhabi.
The festival also features several interactive pavilions highlighting the rich heritage and traditional crafts of the UAE. The Crafts Pavilion showcases various Emirati products, including talli (traditional embroidery), khuss (palm leaf weaving), sadu (traditional weaving), and ceramics. Workshops are held here where visitors can learn traditional skills under the guidance of experienced masters.
The Bait Al Gahwa Pavilion is dedicated to the traditions of preparing and serving Arabic coffee, practiced in the traditional Emirati majlis, through a live demonstration of how to prepare one of the most iconic symbols of Emirati hospitality.
The Maritime Pavilion emphasizes Abu Dhabi's historical connection to the sea through live demonstrations of rope making, pearl diving equipment, fishing nets, and gargurus (fishing traps), thereby celebrating the maritime heritage that played a significant role in shaping the emirate's history.
The culmination of the festival will be an immersive dome pavilion featuring breathtaking 360-degree projections of Abu Dhabi's iconic landmarks, allowing guests to experience the region through an engaging visual journey inspired by its cultural sites, natural landscapes, and award-winning attractions.
Guests can also taste the flavors of Abu Dhabi, having the opportunity to try traditional Emirati dishes such as madruba, dango, and arseya (a type of hot dish made from chicken, rice, vegetables, and spices), as well as desserts including luqaimat (fried dough balls), randhina (a dessert made with dates, flour, cardamom, and cinnamon), and fresh dates.
Those who wish to take a piece of Abu Dhabi home can choose from a selection of traditional souvenirs, handmade items, and UAE perfumes available in designated stalls.
Visiting the 'Doorway to Abu Dhabi' festival is free. Guests are invited to explore the festival and discover everything Abu Dhabi has to offer before planning their next trip to the emirate.