Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival, which is held annually, has begun, with families flocking to Al Wathba to celebrate the culture and traditions of the UAE, as well as other countries, The National reports.

The two-month event features food, performances and crafts of countries from around the world, including embroidery from Uzbekistan. With this being the Year of Zayed, events have a particular emphasis on the importance that Founding Father Sheikh Zayed placed on preserving the heritage of the UAE and its role in spreading a culture of tolerance.

From multicultural heritage parades and car shows, to fireworks and light shows at the water fountain, there are interactive spectacles to inspire all. A dedicated area features replicas of monuments and renowned buildings from each emirate, as well as The World in the UAE, a collection of international landmarks echoing Sheikh Zayed’s vision of peace.

The Festival is named in honour of the UAE’s founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, in recognition of his pivotal role in preserving our nation’s proud history as a gateway to the future. The Festival celebrates the UAE’s cultural inheritance, showcases the rich diversity of its traditions and provides an educational platform for enlightenment.