Event: Awafi Festival in the UAE

The Awafi Festival is one of the most eagerly awaited annual celebrations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Each year, thousands of residents and tourists flock to the dunes of Ras al-Khaimah to join in the festivities, where they come together to honor the nation's rich cultural and ethnic heritage. Here are some fascinating details about this event, take a look!

The Origins of the Awafi Festival

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Since its inception, the Awafi Festival has showcased a variety of key events that attract visitors. In addition to the chance to explore the Ras Al Khaimah desert, attendees can enjoy the exclusive Heritage and Culture Show featuring top-notch events such as musical performances, art exhibitions, and various ceremonies.

One highlight of the festival is a traditional Emirati wedding ceremony, where guests can experience the beauty of local customs and traditions. Additionally, visitors can indulge in a wide array of delicious food and beverages.

Awafi Festival Schedule & Location

This annual festival takes place from December to March, featuring a rich array of cultural heritage events, including sports competitions, theater performances, and various cultural exhibitions throughout the duration.

Visitors can enjoy a full day of activities at the festival, with free entry throughout the event duration. One of the highlights is the racing competition set against the stunning backdrop of the 500-acre red dunes of Awafi in the Ras Al-Khaimah desert.

Awafi Festival 2023

Wikimedia @Sharon Harper

This year's Awafi Festival promises a vibrant array of festivities. Don’t miss the Heritage Village featuring local arts, exhibitions, and markets. Organizers will provide various amenities, including food courts, cafes, and coffee shops. Competitively, you can expect the same thrilling events as in previous years, including car and dune bike races, which are anticipated to kick off towards the end of the year.

Getting to the Awafi Festival in the UAE

There are numerous accommodation options available for those traveling to Ras Al-Khaimah, the venue for the Awafi Festival. If you're staying in central Dubai, you can reach the festival easily. Here are some ways to access one of the UAE's most renowned deserts.

1. Shuttle Bus Service

If you arrive in the UAE, particularly at Dubai International Airport, you can take advantage of the shuttle bus service. The bus offers direct transport to Ras Al-Khaimah from Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 of the airport. You can also request a drop-off near your hotel. Please note that this shuttle bus operates within specific hours, from 1:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

2. Intercity Bus Service

Another way to reach Ras Al-Khaimah is by taking the intercity bus. You can catch this bus directly from Metro Union in Dubai. The journey will take approximately two to three hours to arrive at the desert.

Experience the Awafi Festival's distinctive cultural celebrations in the Ras Al-Khaimah desert. For a hassle-free trip, consider booking your flight to the UAE via Mytour. Make sure to plan your schedule and reserve your tickets along with hotel accommodations, attractions, and more, all available on Mytour!