Abu dhabi: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the fourth edition of the Al Dhafra Dates Festival and Auction is set to take place from 17 to 26 October 2025 in Madinat Zayed, Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi. The festival, organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, aims to establish itself as a prominent international heritage event, focusing on promoting date production and enhancing quality standards.

According to Emirates News Agency, this year’s festival will feature 21 competitions offering 173 prizes valued at over AED 5.5 million. Events will include date beauty contests, honey competitions, cooking challenges, and competitions in date packaging, painting, and photography. A key highlight is the daily Date Auction, where visitors can bid on premium Emirati dates presented on special display tables.

The event will also host an array of cultural and educational activities, such as traditional folk performances, photography and painting exhibitions, heritage crafts, awareness lectures, and creative workshops suitable for all age groups. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore retail outlets offering a variety of date products, farming equipment, and a dedicated ‘Honey Village.’

Both government and private sector entities will participate with pavilions showcasing interactive programs, awareness platforms for farmers and visitors, and the latest agricultural innovations. The festival will also promote cultural and agricultural exchange by hosting the Kingdom of Morocco as this year’s Guest of Honor, aiming to deepen cooperation between the two nations in palm cultivation, date production, and other sectors.