Things to do in Al Gharbia

What are the attractions of Al Gharbia

Al Gharbia is such a large region of the whole of the UAE and Abu Dhabi that coming up with a list of things to do in Al Gharbia seems a little crazy, but since we have covered off some of the areas, these are things we consider looking into.

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• One of the best ways to experience the essence of Al Gharbia is to get involved with some of the famous festivals and if possible also rejoice with the locals. These festivals aptly showcase the diverse traditions of the region and provide plenty of adventure as well for the strong hearted. Some of the renowned festivals celebrated in the region are discussed as follows:
• Bike enthusiasts can derive their share of excitement at the Abu Dhabi Motors Club festival termed as the ‘Desert Challenge’. This festival attracted bike lovers from all over the world due to its novel location and the crazy roads!
• The Liwa Date Festival has evolved into an epitome of folklore not only due to its unique logo but also its style, pattern and inspirational message which it claims to have received from nature.  If you want cultural heritage, a festival celebrating dates is as good as you can get – after all, the people survived with just the date palm tree back in the day.
• The Al Dhafra Festival which is held in Madinat Zayed in December is one of the most popular events in the region, a fact which is proved by the mass participation in all its contests. This festival is all about preserving culture, so anything and everything associated with the roots of the Emirati people is covered. The most amazing one of these is the camel festival. You will never see this in the West, so a camel festival as part of this is probably one of the most unique things you could possibly do in the world! Firstly there are camel markets where camels are traded – but then there are “contests” – where prizes are awarded for best bred and most beautiful. Yes – you can come and visit the Camel Beauty Contest! Late January is the time to come for this. If you have a camel to enter, you may win a luxury car, but top prize is nearly $10m. Are you in the wrong business.
• Water sports enthusiasts can have their share of fun at the Al Gharbia Water Sports Festival which is held in April and is a nine-day extravaganza. Described as being the wettest and wildest event in UAE, the highpoints of this festival are the various water sports and participation from world renowned athletes. Essentially, a competition for surfers, kite surfers – this new festival will continue to grow as Al Gharbia becomes more prominent. Expect more and more water junkies, year on year.