Mother of the Nation Festival draws more than 197,316 visitors

Abu Dhabi / Emirates Business

A spectacular fireworks display brought the 10-day Mother of the Nation Festival to a dazzling close having welcomed 197,316 visitors to the capital’s Corniche Beach for more than 100 live performances, intellectual discussions and an extensive array of engaging activities.
Organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), the Festival’s second edition was a successful tribute to the far-reaching inspirational values of H.H. Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, celebrating her progressive vision and tireless contributions to society.
Commenting on the achievements of the festival’s second edition, HE Saif Saeed Ghobash, Director General of TCA Abu Dhabi said: “The success and popularity of the second edition of the Mother of the Nation Festival, an event honouring and commemorating the inspirational values of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, has
surpassed all our expectations.
“As a unique family event, the fulcrum of the festival’s success lies in the power of cultural exchange and the strength of our society’s community spirit. Built on the solid foundations instilled onto our nation by Her Highness, we were able to create a vibrant, welcoming and engaging atmosphere for the entire family to enjoy, and with a mandate of such overwhelming public support can now carry forward this legacy to make the festival bigger and better when it returns in 2018,” added Ghobash.
The Festival’s events were organised across four distinct zones: the Souq Zone, Beach Dining Zone, Happiness Zone, Progress Zone as well as the Mother of the Nation Pavilion which offered an interactive display of the role of women in the UAE’s development, showcasing the pioneering efforts of past, present and future generations of Emirati women following in Her Highness’ footsteps.
The Festival’s unsurpassed mix of entertaining activities included 35 musical shows and performances throughout its diverse activity zones, and over 50 food and beverage options at the Beach Dining Zone. Also available were displays of unique products from more than 70 vendors at the Souq Zone.
Visitors were enthralled by a remarkable range of concerts, featuring a regional premiere performance of Pokemon: Symphonic Evolutions and regular shows that captivated crowds on the Main Stage, including local favourites Funk Radius, the scintillating PixelPyros interactive digital firework display and concerts covering all musical genres and tastes.
Festival-goers also participated in a range of interactive workshops in the Progress Zone, while others took the opportunity to let loose in a fun-filled environment, learning the art of Tai Chi and Zumba.
The Happiness Zone, emphasising the significance of maintaining an active mind, had a selection of workshops, installations and artworks which reflected the ingenuity found in younger generations, while engaging them with educational activities.
Crowds also embarked on an educational interactive journey in the Miyah – World of Water exhibition that illustrated the water cycle, its usage and global sustainability practices. The Majlis: Interactive Conversations captivated huge audiences in dialogue a new platform of talks, presentations, workshops and discussions connecting the values of women’s empowerment.
while promoting education and tolerance among the youth.
The generosity, hard work and commitment of a team of 120 Abu Dhabi-based volunteers situated across the festival grounds added to the festival’s success, providing advice and assistance to visitors throughout, reflecting Her Highness’ values of collaboration and cohesiveness, attributes the citizens of Abu Dhabi emirate are renowned for.
While imparting knowledge of sustainability, conservation, tolerance and happiness across an eclectic range of activities, workshops and performances, the Mother of the Nation Festival successfully showcased the values of H.H. Sheikha Fatima while bringing the crowds of Abu Dhabi a memorable Festival.