Beyond a festival by the sea: Lammah Al Bahr gathers community in celebration of culture
RAJEEV CHERIAN (AL MUGHEIRAH BEACH, Al DHAFRA)The allure of timeless Emirate heritage and the thrill of sporting adventure has turned Lammah Al Bahr, a weekend jamboree, into a signature cultural event on the shell-strewn shores of Al Dhafra.With its vibrant array of culture, sports, and leisure activities on Al Mugheirah beach in Al Dhafra Region, some 150km west of Abu Dhabi, Lammah Al Bahr — or 'Gathering by the Sea' — draws in families and sports enthusiasts from far and wide.Organised by the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), the festival comes as part of a broader series of initiatives aimed at enhancing community wellbeing and positioning the region as a dynamic investment destination.
A Canopy of Heritage From water sports, heritage games, and desert adventures to arts, cuisine and entertainment, the beachfront festival has resonated with every age group.
Speaking to Aletihad , Fatma Seddiqi, Head of Regional Activations at ADIO, said Lammah Al Bahr has become a celebration of Al Dhafra's identity, offering a culturally rewarding space for community engagement. 'Each weekend brings new opportunities for people to gather, connect, and experience something unique together,' Seddiqi said.The festival also supports local talent, providing an important platform for local businesses to connect with consumers, ranging from the residents of Al Dhafrah to those in the wider Abu Dhabi emirate, as well as visitors from around the world, she said.'By curating a festival that resonates with diverse audiences, we're offering more than entertainment; we're supporting the region's economic growth and building momentum for its future, positioning it as a thriving destination to live, work, and visit,' the ADIO official said.'We also work closely with key stakeholders to ensure that initiatives like Lammah Al Bahr leave a lasting impact on the community. These efforts contribute to Al Dhafrah's long-term development and reinforce ADIO's role as a key driver of investment and sustainable economic growth,' Seddiqi added.
Al Dhafra Beckons When asked about choosing Al Mugheirah as the preferred location for the event, Seddiqi said 'it was a natural choice, a place where Al Dhafra's past and future meet'.'Al Mugheirah's stunning coastal setting reflects the region's deep maritime roots, while its expanding infrastructure tells the story of where we're headed, mirroring the broader journey of Abu Dhabi's economic transformation. 'Hosting the festival here brings that story to life, inviting visitors to discover a part of Abu Dhabi that they may not know yet, raising awareness of the region's appeal as a destination for business, tourism, and recreation.'
Empowering Local SMEs Elaborating on the festival's contribution to community wellbeing and economic diversification, Seddiqi emphasised that 'at its core, Lammah Al Bahr is about creating belonging, offering spaces where our guests feel connected to the region's culture, invested in the community, and inspired by its trajectory'.According to Seddiqi, the event demonstrates how cultural and entertainment experiences can generate real economic impact while highlighting the region's authentic character.'Lammah Al Bahr is a strong driver of development, reflecting ADIO's broader vision to accelerate economic growth across the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The festival creates real value; it gives local SMEs a platform to grow, attracts tourism, and opens doors for new ventures.'Lammah Al Bahr highlights Al Dhafra as a destination that's poised for continuous growth: an area rich in culture, community-centric, and full of opportunity, she added.
Driving Tourism The festival also has its fair share of offerings aimed at boosting tourism, showcasing what makes the region special.'By centering experiences that are authentic to the region, the festival's community engagement initiatives and unique tourism offerings encourage guests to return time and time again.'
Family, Fun and Games After learning about the festival on Saturday, Dubai-based Bulgarian expat Boryana Ince headed to Al Mugheirah with her two young daughters, Eva and Sara, to join the festivities the same day.As Eva and Sara participated in the inflatable obstacle course race, Boryana cheered them on from the sidelines.Eva said that although the race was a bit challenging, it gave her the opportunity to test her skills and learn from other participants.For Sara, the best part was that 'after the game, we can go and enjoy the many activities and booths at the venue'.'We had a good time here, it's an ideal place for family and community gathering, and we are looking forward to coming back,' Boryana said.Lammah Al Bahr opens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 5pm to midnight, with free entry for all visitors.
More information is available on the event's official Instagram account @lammahvibes and its website www.lammahvibes.com.
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