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Abu Dhabi Week checks out what will be on offer at this year’s Qasr al Hosn Festival

Tucked away under the capital’s familiar high rises and surrounded by the bustling sounds of streets filled with traffic there stands a piece of history. The oldest structure in Abu Dhabi, the Qasr al Hosn fort has become the symbolic birthplace of the city.

In honour of the iconic structure, the second annual Qasr al Hosn festival will take place from 20th February to 1st March and promises to take visitors on a trip through time. Featuring exhibitions, guided tours and a special stage show, the initiative revolves around the celebrated fort and its special place in Abu Dhabi history.

Home of history

Standing strong since the 18th century, the fort has played a vital role in the safety and development of the emirate. The first permanent structure in Abu Dhabi, the coral and sea stone watchtower was built to offer strategic views overlooking the turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea.

Constructed in the 1760s by Sheikh Dhiyab Bin Isa of the Bani Yas tribe, the tower allowed the tribe to control access to the island and offered protection to the growing community.
As the community grew and expanded into areas along the coast, Sheikh Shakhbut Bin Dhiyab would expand the simple watchtower into an imposing fort. Further enlargements continued in the 19th century and after the discovery of oil, Sheikh Shakhbut Bin Sultan Al Nahyan constructed the iconic palace that sits within the walls.

The royal residence would later be renovated under the direction of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who would see the historic fort transformed into a museum. Housing important collections and documents about the UAE and Gulf region, the structure would take on the mantle of a home to history.

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Festivities at the fort

The annual festival will be hosted at the Qasr al Hosn fort in downtown Abu Dhabi. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) and held under the patronage of HH General Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the second edition will feature a variety of activities, exhibitions and a special equestrian stage show.

“Qasr al Hosn Festival is an annual opportunity to celebrate this magnificent national monument and iconic symbol of Abu Dhabi’s proud history and identity,” said HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of TCA Abu Dhabi.

New this year, guests will be able to visit the historic National Consultative Council Chamber and take a peek at the ongoing renovations with guided tours. In addition to a series of live performances at the open-air theatre, the festival will offer four distinct experiences revealing different aspects of Abu Dhabi’s history and culture; Desert, Oasis, Marine and Abu Dhabi Island.

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Horsing around

One of the highlights of this year’s festivities will be Cavalia at Qasr al Hosn. The Middle Eastern debut of this equestrian and performing arts production will see audiences delighted as over 40 trained horses and 36 riders, aerialists, acrobats and musicians come together for a memorable performance.

Created by Normand Latourelle, one of the co-founders of the famed Cirque du Soleil, the internationally acclaimed show has been specially adapted to reflect elements of the UAE culture.

“The show has been tailored to reflect the intricacies of Qasr al Hosn and the broader Emirati culture. We have done a lot of research, and have made many changes to the set, costumes and music to reflect Emirati traditions. I think people will simply fall in love with this unique theatrical production,” said Latourelle, founder and artistic director.

Eleven different breeds will perform with artists in front of a constantly changing digital background, plunging guests into a dreamy virtual experience.

Performances will be staged from 22nd February to 1st March. Tickets start from AED 250 and up.

Want more?

The Qasr al Hosn Festival will take place from 20th February to 1st March with 21st February open to women and children only. The fort is located in the heart of Abu Dhabi, between Al Nasr Street, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street and Sheikh Zayed the First Street. For more information, ticket prices, and details on the programme visit: www.qasralhosnfestival.ae

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Check it out!

Children (and adults) can get in on the action – literally – with special workshops and cultural demonstrations hosted throughout the festival at special activity zones. See below for some of our favourite finds on offer.

  •  Amateur archaeologists can explore the history of the capital and learn how to handle precious artefacts at the Abu Dhabi Island area
  •  Animal lovers looking to experience a taste of Bedouin life can ride a camel at the Desert area
  •  Weave your way into history with a fishnet making workshop in the Marine area
  •  Hold onto your breath as you watch tree climbers scale towering palms in the Oasis area

All scheduled workshops are free and can be booked in advance while at the festival and operate on a first come, first served basis. Activities and demos will be occurring from 4pm and 11pm and do not require registration.

Sawaiba Khan

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