The Liwa Date Festival has made a stunning debut, receiving an impressive 3.2 tons of dates on its first day. This annual event, dedicated to showcasing the region’s agricultural heritage, not only highlights the importance of dates but also brings together farmers and enthusiasts in a vibrant celebration. The festival features various competitions, including the biggest “A’j” (a traditional date type) and selections for the finest types of dates, all organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and running until July 27 in Liwa, Al Dhafra region.
A Warm Welcome to Participants
On its inaugural day, the Liwa Date Festival collected 3 tons and 230 kilograms of dates, sourced from local farms. The first day’s success sets an exciting tone for the ongoing festivities, which are packed with activities aimed at promoting local agriculture and community engagement. The festival is expected to draw large crowds as it progresses, making the event a significant occasion in the cultural calendar of the region.
Announcing the Winners of the Biggest A’j Competition
During the festival’s opening, Abd Khalfan Al Mazrouei, the Executive Director of the Events and Festivals Sector at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, proudly announced the winners of the Biggest A’j competition. Several dignitaries from participating organizations, along with farmers and festival visitors, were in attendance to celebrate the achievements. In a competitive showcase, first place was awarded to Obaid Saeed Naseeb Khamis Al Mazrouei, followed closely by the descendants of Abdullah Hadi Abdullah Al Mur and Saif Siyah Salem Tamash Al Mansouri in second and third place, respectively. Fourth place was claimed by Saeed Hamooda Khamis Al Aryani, with Moza Mohammed Afisaan Al Mazrouei rounding out the top five. The organizing committee announced a total of 15 prizes for the “Biggest A’j” competition, with a total value of 234,000 AED.
Continuing Competitions at the Festival
The excitement at the Liwa Date Festival is far from over as the event continues to accept entries from farmers for its daily competitions. Recently, submissions were collected for the Mango Competition, featuring categories for both “Local” and “Mixed” varieties. A total of 10 prizes, each category boasting a total worth of 234,000 AED, have been allocated. The prizes for the Mango competition are designed to encourage participation, with the first-place winner receiving 25,000 AED, the second place 20,000 AED, and the third place 15,000 AED. With 24 competitions planned, the Liwa Date Festival promises a rewarding experience for participants and visitors alike.
As the festival progresses, its efforts to highlight local agriculture and bring the community together continue to shine, creating a legacy of tradition and celebration in the heart of Liwa.