Liwa Date Festival Kicks Off with Three Tonnes of Fresh Dates

Jul 16, 2026

70 min

Jul 16, 2026 16:31

Liwa Date Festival opens with 3 tonnes of fresh dates

## Festival Highlights

The 22nd Liwa Date Festival commenced with an impressive display of nearly three tonnes of fresh dates, known as rutab, marking the start of one of the UAE's largest agricultural events. Held in Liwa City, Al Dhafra Region, the festival draws farmers, families, and visitors, celebrating the UAE's deep-rooted connection to the date palm.

## Competitions and Prizes

Farmers are competing for a share of Dh8 million in prizes across 23 competitions. Categories include fresh dates, fruits, and model farms, with a special focus on quality, size, and ripeness. The opening day featured the Largest Date Bunch competition, with the winning bunch weighing 113.2kg.

## Cultural and Heritage Activities

Beyond agriculture, the festival offers cultural activities such as traditional crafts, family entertainment, and exhibitions of local products. Visitors can explore pavilions selling traditional food and handmade items, enhancing the festival's role in promoting Emirati heritage.

## Supporting Local Agriculture

Organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the festival is a key platform for showcasing produce and exchanging agricultural knowledge. It encourages sustainable farming practices and highlights the date palm's significance in Emirati culture and food security.

## Economic and Tourism Impact

The event attracts thousands annually, boosting tourism and economic activity in the Al Dhafra Region. It plays a vital role in preserving agricultural traditions and passing knowledge to future generations, reinforcing the date palm's status as a cultural symbol.

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