UAE Journalists Association Delegation Explores the Rich Heritage of the 21st Liwa Date Festival

Liwa, Al Dhafra Region – July 22, 2025:
A distinguished delegation from the UAE Journalists Association visited the 21st edition of the Liwa Date Festival, currently being held in Liwa City, Al Dhafra Region, under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court. The festival, organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, runs until July 27 and celebrates one of the UAE’s most cherished agricultural traditions — the date harvest.

During the visit, the delegation toured various key areas of the festival, including the pavilions of participating entities, the vibrant dates market, exhibitions of palm seedlings, agricultural products, the traditional souk, and displays of heritage crafts. The delegation gained insights into the festival’s competitions, traditional showcases, and interactive events held over a 14-day period, designed to engage farmers, families, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Welcoming the delegation, H.E. Obaid Khalfan Al Mazrouei, Executive Director of the Festivals and Events Sector at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, praised the UAE media’s role in documenting and promoting national heritage. He emphasized the festival’s mission to preserve Emirati cultural identity, promote agricultural excellence, and celebrate the significance of the date palm as a symbol of sustainability and prosperity.

> “The media plays an essential role in conveying the spirit of our heritage to the wider public, locally and globally,” said Al Mazrouei. “We are proud to see the Liwa Date Festival grow into a cultural cornerstone, celebrating both tradition and innovation.”

Ms. Fadhila Al Muaini, President of the UAE Journalists Association, commended the leadership’s continuous support for national festivals that strengthen cultural heritage and promote intergenerational knowledge transfer. She noted the association’s commitment to connecting media professionals with grassroots initiatives and national events that reflect the UAE’s values and identity.

> “The Liwa Date Festival is more than a celebration of the harvest — it is a living archive of our heritage,” Al Muaini remarked. “This 21st edition marks a significant milestone, showcasing two decades of achievement in agricultural development, cultural preservation, and community engagement.”

She added that the visit falls within the association’s broader strategy to enhance member engagement through field visits, media coverage opportunities, and exposure to key events both inside and outside the country.

With participation from farmers, producers, industry experts, and heritage advocates, the Liwa Date Festival continues to strengthen its status as a leading cultural and agricultural platform, bringing together tradition, innovation, and community pride under one roof.