Every January, one of Abu Dhabi’s most important landmarks comes alive after sunset. Al Hosn Festival turns the historic grounds of Qasr Al Hosn into a lively space filled with crafts, music, food, and hands-on activities that celebrate Emirati heritage in a way that feels welcoming and easy to explore.
Running from 17 January to 1 February 2026, the festival offers a relaxed evening experience that blends history with community life. Whether you are visiting with family, friends, or on your own, planning your timing makes all the difference.
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When and Where to Go
Fee: From 9.92 USD
Dates: 17 January to 1 February 2026
Daily hours: 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Last entry: Around 10:30 PM
Venue: Al Hosn precinct, Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi
The festival is ticketed and organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. Evening hours make it ideal for a post-work visit, with cooler temperatures and a lively night atmosphere.
Things Not to Miss at Al Hosn Festival
The Souq: Start Your Visit Here
Best time: From 4:00 PM
The heritage souq is one of the first areas to explore when the gates open. Stalls feature handcrafted perfumes, textiles, jewelry, and traditional Emirati items. Visiting early lets you browse at a relaxed pace before the crowds grow.
This is also a good moment to get your bearings and decide which performances or workshops you want to catch later in the evening.
Live Artisan Demonstrations
Best time: From around 5:00 PM onwards
One of the festival’s strongest highlights is its live artisan demonstrations, with around 18 different crafts on display. You can watch skilled artisans work on Sadu weaving, pottery, metalwork, Arabic calligraphy, and embroidery.
Arriving early in the evening gives you time to move between stations, observe different techniques, and ask questions without feeling rushed.
Building Workshop: Crafting Al Hosn
Best time: Check daily program
This workshop offers a deeper look into traditional construction methods and the conservation work behind Qasr Al Hosn. It focuses on how the historic fort was built and preserved using local materials and techniques.
Session times vary daily, so it is best to check the official program in advance and plan your visit around one scheduled slot, especially if you enjoy heritage and architecture.
Traditional Music and Performances
Best time: Around 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM
As evening settles in, performance areas across the precinct come alive with traditional music and dance. Expect well known forms such as Al Taghrooda, Al Wanna, Al Mankoos, and Al Radha.
These headline performances usually take place in the evening, making this the best time to pause, sit, and take in the atmosphere of the festival at its most vibrant.
Falconry, Saluki, and Camel Experiences
Best time: Early to mid-evening
Live animal demonstrations highlight the deep connection between Emirati culture and desert life. Falconry displays, along with saluki and camel experiences, are especially popular with families and first-time visitors.
Arrive early at the demonstration areas to secure a good viewing spot, as these sessions tend to draw crowds.
Children’s Workshops and the Freej Area
Best time: Around 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Families with children should head to the Freej area soon after opening. Here, kids can join hands-on workshops, traditional games, and creative activities designed to introduce heritage in a fun and simple way.
Early evening sessions are calmer and better suited for younger children, making this the most comfortable window for families.
Food and the Night-Time Festival Feel
Best time: From 7:00 PM onwards
Food stalls serving Emirati dishes and casual street food help set the tone for a full evening out. After sunset, lighting across the fort and courtyards creates a warm, social atmosphere that pairs well with performances and late-night browsing.
Staying later allows you to experience the festival at its most lively and relaxed.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Arrive between 4:00 and 5:00 PM to see crafts and workshops without rushing
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the precinct is best explored on foot
- Book tickets in advance, especially for weekends
- Check the official daily program for exact performance and workshop timings
Photography and Cultural Etiquette
Photography is welcome throughout the festival but always be respectful. Ask permission before taking close up photos of performers or artisans and follow any posted guidelines in heritage spaces. This helps preserve both the experience and the cultural setting.
Plan Your Visit
Al Hosn Festival is best enjoyed as a full evening experience rather than a quick stop. From early browsing at the souq to evening performances and late-night food, each part of the program builds into a well-paced celebration of Emirati heritage.
Check the official festival pages for tickets and daily schedules, plan your timing, and give yourself enough time to explore the Al Hosn precinct at a comfortable pace.