Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi launches comprehensive packages featuring cultural highlights, family attractions
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Saadiyat Island has introduced a range of new packages combining accommodation with access to cultural venues, entertainment options, and family-friendly activities. The offers are available through the official website, SaadiyatIsland.ae.The Stay & Play package includes accommodation at one of the island's hotels, daily access to a Yas Island theme park, entry to the new teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi digital art space, breakfast, and beach access.The Stay & Event package includes accommodation with teamLab Phenomena entry and access to scheduled entertainment events in Abu Dhabi. Upcoming events include the musical MAMMA MIA! (June 11-22), a performance by André Rieu (October 18), the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (December 5-7), and Abu Dhabi Comedy Season (until July 12).For families, the Kids Go Free offer is valid from June 1 to September 30. It includes free stays for up to two children under 12 year in a sharing a room with two adults, complimentary children's meals when booked on the same dining plan, and entry to theme parks including Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World™ and SeaWorld® Abu Dhabi. Entry to teamLab Phenomena is also included.For those not staying overnight, single-entry tickets to teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi are available online. The venue features interactive installations exploring digital art, nature and technology.
All packages and tickets are available exclusively through https://www.SaadiyatIsland.ae.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Al Etihad
8 hours ago
- Al Etihad
UAE a global leader in preserving historic art of Arabic calligraphy
14 Aug 2025 00:25 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)Art as beautiful as Arabic calligraphy deserves the global spotlight, and the UAE has been at the forefront of keeping this ancient art form alive amid the rapid developments of the modern world. On World Calligraphy Day, marked every second Wednesday of August, Aletihad highlights the significance of this artistic expression as a cultural treasure for the UAE and the Arab world. Arabic calligraphy was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in December 2021, and the UAE is among the 16 countries that have made it happen. UNESCO described the art form as 'the artistic practice of handwriting Arabic script in a fluid manner to convey harmony, grace and beauty.''The fluidity of Arabic script offers infinite possibilities, even within a single word, as letters can be stretched and transformed in numerous ways to create different motifs,' it said. Arabic calligraphy is more than just a writing technique: its flowing lines, curves, and complex forms represent centuries of artistic tradition, as well as the richness and elegance of the was born out of Arab speakers' need to develop the language and create letters and shapes that capture 'the spirit and culture of Arab and Islamic societies,' Abu Dhabi Culture said in a primer on its website. 'Over time, as the importance of the Arabic language grew, specialised art forms and calligraphy schools were established with innovative curricula,' it added. At a time when most writing needs are met by tapping away on screens and keyboards, the UAE ensures there remains a permanent space for the art of putting ink on paper and turning Arabic script into a masterpiece. The UAE has established itself as a leader in preserving and advancing Arabic calligraphy through numerous initiatives – including exhibitions and festivals – within the country and beyond.'This has encouraged new developments and innovations in calligraphy and other arts,' Abu Dhabi Culture said. The Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi has been committed to supporting this art form since its early days. Through the years, it has organised events and activities that encourage development in the field. It has also set up a dedicated department for teaching the art. The Ministry of Culture, through awards like the prestigious Al Burda Award, has played a pivotal role in encouraging global participation and recognition of the organisations regularly hold workshops, competitions, and exhibitions, combining traditional techniques with modern resources. In 2023, more than 200 artists from around the world participated in the inaugural Dubai Calligraphy Biennale, which was organised by Dubai beauty and development of Arabic script in visual art were emphasised by exhibitions such as the 'History of Arabic Calligraphy in the UAE' at Al Shindagha Museum and the 'Light Lines' photography entities in the country also ensure the art form remains relevant through impactful discussions and open dialogues. The 2024 panel discussion 'Arabic Calligraphy: Between Creativity and Renewal' at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library was one such effort that brought together well-known calligraphers and artists. Arabic calligraphy has evolved through time, from the geometric Kufic script to the elegant, flowing Naskh, and contemporary freestyle typefaces. While maintaining the discipline and internal logic of the art form, artists today experiment with both traditional and digital forms, developing new designs for branding, book design, posters, and commercial use. By actively supporting and celebrating this heritage, the UAE has not only safeguarded Arabic calligraphy but also elevated it on the global stage, establishing itself as a vibrant centre for creatives, artists, and calligraphers from around the world.
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Al Etihad
AccessAbilities Expo launches 'Determination Without Limits' competition in Dubai
11 Aug 2025 14:05 DUBAI (ALETIHAD)The organising committee of the AccessAbilities Expo has announced the launch of the first-of-its-kind international photography competition titled 'Determination Without Limits', in collaboration with the Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA).The global contest, open to all, aims to attract professional and amateur photographers from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the People of Determination (PoD) worldwide. It seeks to highlight their achievements, how they overcome challenges, their meaningful contributions to society, and how their determination and positive spirit inspire others. The initiative reflects the UAE's vision of inclusivity and fostering an environment that enables everyone to participate fully in society—regardless of physical or cognitive differences.A special objective of the contest is to empower photographers from among People of Determination, discover their talents, and help them build visibility and gain access to career or project opportunities by showcasing their work on a prestigious global contest organisers invite all interested individuals to participate. Submissions will open on August 11 and close on September 7, 2025. A panel of judges from HIPA's technical committee will review the entries and select the winning photographs, which will be revealed in a special ceremony on the final day of the AccessAbilities Expo, held from October 6–8, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade contest offers valuable cash prizes to winners, along with a certificate of recognition from HIPA in appreciation of their exceptional photographic work. Promoting Hope Regarding the launch of this global initiative, Ali Khalifa bin Thalith, Secretary-General of HIPA, stated: "We are proud to partner in this artistic event, which carries a noble humanitarian and developmental dimension. It aims to strengthen the tools of hope and resilience for People of Determination, explore and refine their visual talents, and support their creative artistic expression—fostering deeper integration into society."He added: "HIPA has a proud legacy of supporting and empowering People of Determination, which lies at the heart of our mission as envisioned by the founder of the award, His Highness the Crown Prince of Dubai, who continues to actively follow its progress." The UAE's VisionFor his part, Ghassan Suleiman, CEO of the AccessAbilities Expo, commented: "I would like to thank the HIPA team for their significant technical and moral support of this contest. We are proud of this collaboration, which reinforces the UAE's vision of a world that is more inclusive and appreciative of millions of People of Determination and their families globally." He added, "Our long-term goal is for 'Determination Without Limits' to become a global platform that captures the beauty, resilience, and daily stories of People of Determination. I encourage everyone to participate in this open competition. I am confident it will resonate positively with local and international organisations, as it sheds light on the aspirations of more than 1.3 billion People of Determination—representing around 45% of the global population with their families and communities." Special Contest for Photographers The 7th edition of the AccessAbilities Expo will be held from October 6–8, 2025, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, at Halls 5 to 8 of Dubai World Trade encourage participation by both amateur and professional photographers in the UAE, attendees will be able to capture images inside the exhibition halls, whether of assistive technologies, innovations, or moments of joy and interaction from People of Determination visiting the event. These photos aim to showcase capabilities, success stories, and the impact of technology on improving the quality of in this category will also receive cash and in-kind prizes, along with certificates of appreciation, for photographs that reflect the inspiring stories and achievements of People of Determination. The contest will culminate in a dedicated awards ceremony on the last day of the AccessAbilities Expo, where the winning photographs will be displayed in a special gallery in the presence of the community and covered by local and international media. Who Can Participate The contest is open to all interested professional and amateur photographers worldwide, according to the technical guidelines provided on the official HIPA website. The HIPA team will review all uploaded submissions and select the best entries, which will be announced during the AccessAbilities Expo. Various Options for ParticipationTo ensure balanced representation, the contest includes five photography categories: 1. Hope in Inclusion – Capturing moving stories of resilience and human connection, such as moments of friendship or overcoming challenges with a smile.2. Artistic Inclusion – Highlighting the creative talents of People of Determination in visual, performance, or literary arts (e.g., a musical performance, painting, or inclusive play).3. Assistive Technology & Innovation – Showcasing tools, applications, or solutions like prosthetics and smart devices that empower independence and creativity.4. Sports Inclusion – Featuring the strength, skill, and team spirit of athletes with disabilities, or integrated sports events, highlighting energy, emotion, and breaking barriers. 5. Accessible Environments – Documenting inclusive urban design and infrastructure such as public spaces, buildings, and transportation that welcome everyone.
Al Etihad
4 days ago
- Al Etihad
Dubai Press Club to organise fifth edition of Dubai PodFest on September 30
10 Aug 2025 15:38 DUBAI (ALETIHAD)Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the Dubai Press Club (DPC) announced that it will organise the fifth edition of Dubai PodFest on September 30, event coincides with International Podcast Day, a global celebration of the power and widespread influence of together prominent Arab podcasters, media organisations, and leading platforms specialising in audio content creation, Dubai PodFest continues to serve as the region's leading event dedicated to annual gathering provides a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas, showcasing success stories, and shaping the future of audio content creation in the Arab will explore global trends, share best practices, and discuss strategies for expanding the visibility and competitiveness of Arabic content. The event will also highlight opportunities to empower emerging talents, strengthen partnerships between media institutions and creative industries, and address the challenges facing podcast creators—transforming them into opportunities for growth and Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and President of the Dubai Press Club, said, 'The fifth edition of Dubai PodFest, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reflects his vision to position Dubai as a hub for Arab media, a catalyst for creative content development, and a global destination for new media talent.'She added, 'His Highness Sheikh Ahmed's directives provide a clear roadmap to strengthen Dubai's position as the capital of Arab media—by not only staying ahead of global trends but also shaping the digital media landscape and empowering Arab talent to create impactful, globally competitive content.'Al Marri noted that Dubai PodFest, coinciding with International Podcast Day, has become the region's leading event dedicated to the podcasting industry, bringing together top Emirati and Arab media professionals, regional production companies and content creators to explore ways to support and grow this fast-evolving sector.'Dubai Press Club will continue to launch initiatives that strengthen Arab media's ability to adapt to the future and reinforce Dubai's role as a hub for innovation and creativity,' she Al Mulla, Director of Dubai Press Club, said, 'Organising the fifth edition of Dubai PodFest reflects our deep commitment to supporting and enabling the growth of the podcasting industry in the Arab world. We believe in the unique ability of podcasts to inform, inspire and elevate public awareness through creative, accessible storytelling. This event provides a collaborative space for creators, producers and institutions to explore new possibilities for developing Arabic content and enhancing its global reach.'She added, 'Dubai PodFest also presents an opportunity to spotlight outstanding success stories that motivate young people to enter this field with confidence and creativity. Its continued success since launch is a clear reflection of Dubai's forward-looking vision and its investment in nurturing talent and innovation across the media sector.'Mahfoudha Abdullah, Manager of Dubai PodFest and Media Talent Development Lead at DPC, said, 'The fifth edition of Dubai PodFest continues to bring together leading audio content creators to explore ways to enhance this rapidly growing sector within the Arab media landscape. The fast pace of technological advancement has opened the door for anyone with creativity and determination to succeed in the field and gain wide recognition.'She added, 'The timing of this edition, coinciding with International Podcast Day, underscores the importance of the podcasting industry, and highlights the latest developments and key drivers of excellence within the sector.'Dubai Press Club has invited podcast professionals, media organisations, entrepreneurs and content creators to register for the event and take part in its lineup of panel discussions, workshops and interactive sessions. Registration and additional information about Dubai PodFest 2025 can be accessed through:
