Marking the event’s 14th edition, Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival is already in full swing at Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, exploring how civilizations evolve through the intertwining of human decisions, innovations, and exchanges. As the festival enters its third weekend from January 30th to February 1st, the programme turns guests’ attention to cultural diversity and the ways creative expression transcends borders and influences perspectives. Building on last week’s lineup dedicated to families and pet owners, the third weekend brings together local and international voices through thought-provoking artworks, hands-on masterclasses, immersive tours, film screenings, and live music performances.
Live Performances & Film
Continuing the dynamic festival lineup, the third weekend presents a symphony of live music, vibrant spectacles, film screenings, and dialogue, with a particular focus on global talent and perspectives. On Friday, January 30th, the weekend opens with the colourful Around the World Parade at 4.00pm, featuring school groups and performers leading country delegations through the festival, followed by lively cultural showcases celebrating traditions from India, Jordan, Kuwait, Egypt, and the Philippines. The day continues with the smooth guitar rhythms and Parisian flair of The Gypsy Swing Project at Abdul Karim’s House, a captivating set by Cuban vocalist Ivonne, and an electrifying performance by Italian DJ Renzo at The Fort.
As the weekend unfolds, Saturday brings soulful soundscapes, featuring sarangi virtuoso Nabeel Khan’s fusion of classical Indian music and contemporary world influences, alongside the indie energy of Zarooni Sound Society and Fabre’s distinctive blend of jazz, gospel, and R&B.
On Sunday, the weekend’s entertainment concludes with a performance by Spirit of the East, led by Iranian oud player Hooman Shirali, followed by an outdoor screening of Tales from the Magic Garden at 8.00pm, presented in collaboration with the European Union Delegation to the UAE. Crafted through stop-motion animation, the heart-warming film explores how imagination, storytelling, and connection can help in times of loss, creating a memorable viewing experience for visitors of all generations.
The Hidden Table
From January 30th to February 1st, The Hidden Table welcomes Bungalo34, bringing the laid-back spirit and effortless refinement of the Riviera’s golden era to Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village through a menu of fresh, contemporary Mediterranean flavours. Taking place from 2.00pm to 10.30pm, the experience offers limited seating, with early reservations recommended. Walk-ins are also welcome, subject to availability.
Guided Tours
Another delicious festival highlight includes the food tour on January 30th, which takes visitors on a guided adventure through the winding streets of Ras Al Khaimah’s old town. Throughout the tour, foodies will have the chance to discover some of the emirate’s best hidden gems and taste time-honoured dishes that have been enjoyed by the community for generations. Promising something to suit everyone’s taste, the third weekend also includes regular heritage tours exploring the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village and art tours delving deeper into the festival’s exhibition.
Workshops & Masterclasses
Giving visitors the opportunity to engage directly with the narrative of ‘Civilizations’, workshops on Saturday, January 31st focus on hands-on making and cultural storytelling, beginning with pottery painting guided by artist Hakim Elhaj and a travel photography workshop with photojournalist Andrew Tarica. Additionally, guests can take part in a clay crafting session led by Dyae El Gharbaoui or attend the second part of the festival’s speaker series at Visitors’ Centre, Zone B, examining migration, diaspora, and the shifting nature of civilization with expert speakers Dr. Neha Vora, Farah Ali, Prof. Anju Pal, and Homa Farley.
Rounding out the third weekend on Sunday, February 1st, the schedule includes a Moroccan Zellij workshop, introducing geometric pattern-making through collage techniques, followed by Threads of Civilizations, an embroidery session with Alina El Assadi exploring stitched motifs inspired by ancient cultures and personal narratives.
Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival continues to take shape as a month-long celebration of artistic expression, cultural exchange, and shared heritage, offering visitors countless ways to engage with art across Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. The third weekend adds a distinctly international lens, drawing connections between creative voices from around the world and the evolving stories that shape civilisations across time and place. With free public entry alongside limited-capacity experiences.
When: From January 16th to February 8th
Where: Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, Ras Al Khaimah
What: A month-long outdoor arts festival featuring exhibitions, performances, workshops, heritage tours, film screenings, and curated culinary experiences
Price: Experiences are priced individually
