This year marks the ninth edition of the Mother of the Nation Festival.
Abu Dhabi, brace yourselves for the ultimate celebration that is about to hit the capital again. The dates for the ninth Mother of the Nation Festival have just been announced, and this year, the festival is gearing up to sweep across three fantastic locations.
The capital’s ultimate family event is expanding its horizons. From 28 November to 2 December, it will open its doors in the Al Dhafra Region. The event will also take place in the Garden City of Al Ain from 28 November until 2 December, before concluding at the Abu Dhabi Corniche from 10 December to 4 January 2026. This will translate into more than a month of fun activities, unique activations, and shopping opportunities aplenty.
This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than previous editions. Picture international acts, dazzling artists, and carnival rides that’ll make your heart race. Art installations and curated retail experiences will create a retail paradise for art enthusiasts and shopaholics, while food trucks will provide a perfect opportunity to feast and refuel amid the festivities.
Hosted by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the annual festival was created to honour the legacy of HH Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, who is known countrywide as the Mother of the Nation – hence its name. We’re told that the 2025 MOTN experience will feature amazing attractions, including Instagrammable signage, live art installations, and musical performances.
Showcasing global and local culture and hospitality alongside leading retail outlets and the creative works of international and regional artists, last year’s festival was divided into four themed areas – Amuse, Thrill, Indulge, and Entertain – encompassing amusement park rides, creative workshops, interactive experiences, escape rooms, arcade games, basketball showdowns, a Jeep track, a skatepark and a roller rink. New additions for 2025 include an Instagrammable museum, immersive gaming hubs, laser tag, mazes and a Ninja Kidz action park, plus interactive workshops, an outdoor cinema and an expanded inflatables zone.
Food lovers are well served with more than 40 concepts from regional and international vendors. From beloved street food and indulgent sweet treats to gourmet dishes and trending bites, the F&B line-up caters to every craving.
Running for more than 30 days across three locations, MOTN 2025 features over 50 immersive experiences. This year’s “Out of This World” theme transforms the festival into a universe of wonder, inviting guests to journey through distinct sections that balance fun, flavour and discovery. Expect highlights from Al Dhafra’s scenic Al Mugheirah Bay and National Day moments in Al Ain to a grand finale along the Abu Dhabi Corniche.
We’ll see you there.
GO: Visit www.motn.ae for more information.