Under the directives of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, Brand Dubai – the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office – has launched the 2025 edition of the Hatta Festival.
Running until 28 December, the festival is set along the three-hectare Leem Lake waterfront, framed by Hatta’s striking mountain scenery. As part of the #DubaiDestinations campaign, the event offers a diverse blend of cultural, recreational and community-oriented experiences for families and visitors of all ages.
Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, said the festival builds on the success of last year’s edition, which drew over 650,000 visitors over a month. This year’s programme was designed with inclusivity and diversity in mind to provide a memorable family experience for visitors of all ages.
Al Suwaidi added that the festival supports the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan by promoting awareness of Hatta’s distinctive tourism, cultural and natural assets, further strengthening its position as one of Dubai’s most inspiring outdoor destinations. She emphasised that the Hatta Festival is not only an entertainment event but also a celebration of community spirit, uniting people and offering visitors a glimpse into Dubai’s ongoing progress and promise.
Amina Taher, Member of the event’s Organising Committee, said the festival forms part of Brand Dubai’s efforts to support local entrepreneurs under the Proudly from Dubai initiative. She noted that 30 ventures – half of them run by Hatta residents – are participating in this year’s festival on the Proudly from Dubai platform to present their products, expand their reach and engage directly with visitors.
Offering a variety of foods, desserts and locally made goods, their participation strengthens the festival’s mission to support SMEs in Hatta and foster opportunities for homegrown talent. Taher noted that the involvement of these ventures boosts community participation and contributes to sustainable economic development in the region.
This year’s edition also introduces the Young Entrepreneurs Competition, held in collaboration with the Mohammed bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development (Dubai SME), featuring four young entrepreneurs from Hatta.
Taher added that the Hatta Festival includes a rich line-up of more than 150 workshops, activities for all ages, and over 100 performances and TV shows, ensuring a vibrant and engaging experience for families.
Community-focused activities include Cooking and Camping, which blends outdoor cooking with the excitement of camping in the Hatta mountains; Star Photography, a workshop exploring the basics of astrophotography; and Traditional Life in Hatta Farms, an interactive activity for children that offers insights into traditional lifestyles.
The festival also features Home Bakery, one of Dubai’s most beloved bakeries and cafés, known for its fresh home-style desserts and popular among families and dessert lovers.
Children’s zones offer creative workshops, educational activities and skill-based games. For the first time, a mini zoo has been introduced, featuring friendly animals such as ponies, gazelles, goats, parrots and rabbits, providing an interactive and educational experience for young visitors.
A large games area welcomes visitors at the entrance, showcasing giant versions of classic board games including chess, checkers, connect-four and snakes & ladders, creating a nostalgic and fun environment for families.
The Winter Games Zone brings adventure-based attractions such as a human crane challenge, bungee jumping, bumper cars and large-scale skill games suitable for all ages. A new Hatta-themed Escape Room offers immersive puzzle-solving challenges inspired by the area’s heritage and natural landscapes, encouraging teamwork and critical thinking.
Outdoor workshops overlooking Leem Lake provide hands-on arts and crafts sessions inspired by Hatta’s natural surroundings, led by skilled local creators. With over 150 sessions for different age groups, this area acts as a dynamic creative hub throughout the festival.
Sponsored by Camelicious, the festival’s Majlis provides a traditional Emirati meeting space featuring warm hospitality and mountain views, offering visitors a place to connect in an atmosphere inspired by Hatta’s heritage.
The Brand Dubai Store returns this year, allowing visitors to purchase festival-themed souvenirs. The market features a wide collection of creative products inspired by more than 10 artists, who contributed over 25 unique artworks available for purchase.
The festival will receive extensive television coverage through Dubai Media.
The Main Stage, set against the backdrop of Leem Lake, will host over 100 shows, including episodes of popular TV programmes by Dubai Media’s Sama Dubai TV, along with a variety of innovative, family-friendly cultural and entertainment performances. The venue can accommodate 500 attendees.
At night, the bridges across Leem Lake are transformed into illuminated art installations with dynamic lighting inspired by Hatta’s nature and heritage, enhancing the beauty of the festival grounds.
(Inputs from WAM)
