The Iconic Tanweer Festival Returns to the Sands of Mleiha for a Powerful Second Edition this November
Something truly incredible is set to once again light up the Sharjah desert this November 2025 with the return of the Tanweer Festival. Following the success of its debut edition, the one-of-a-kind festival returns to the majestic dunes of Mleiha this November 21st, 22nd, and 23rd, bringing with it a renewed call for enlightenment through music, art, and shared human experience. Set in the breathtaking natural beauty of Sharjah's Mleiha region, this celebration of global unity is designed to ignite connection, understanding, and inner discovery through an unforgettable cultural journey under the stars.
At the heart of Tanweer Festival is the visionary leadership of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, whose passion for cultural dialogue, spiritual growth, and sustainability inspired the festival's creation. Driven by a belief in the transformative power of music, nature, and shared experiences, Sheikha Bodour envisioned Tanweer as a platform that transcends borders, connects communities, and nurtures a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi recently commented, 'We are thrilled to bring Tanweer Festival back for its second edition, and this time, it's even more ambitious, immersive, and meaningful. Last year's debut was just the beginning of a journey that resonated deeply with so many people, and this year we are building on that foundation with a richer programme, stronger sustainability practices, and an even more powerful message of unity. I truly can't wait to welcome our growing community back to the Mleiha desert to continue this journey together.'
This year, Tanweer Festival, which translates to the festival of enlightenment, embraces the theme of 'What you Seek Is Seeking You,' a famous quote from Rumi, the 13th-century poet and mystic whose work transcends cultures, religions, and generations. Through music and poetry, Rumi encouraged people to explore the depths of our inner selves, reconnect with the natural world, and find unity in diversity, values that lie at the very heart of Tanweer.
What to Expect
The festival grounds are carefully curated to reflect its holistic ethos. The Main Stage will be a multisensory arena with ambient lighting, ancestral music, and mountain-side projections. The Dome acts as the heart of community learning, hosting discussions and workshops, while the Tree of Life serves as a serene space for gathering and reflection. Nourish, the festival's culinary hub, offers organic, farm-to-table dishes including vegan, vegetarian, and traditional Bedouin-style BBQs. The Marketplace features handpicked artisans offering unique handcrafted items, while immersive art installations transform the desert into an open-air gallery.Leaving No TraceSustainability remains a non-negotiable pillar of Tanweer Festival. It is a no single-use plastic event with a dedicated reuse and recycle strategy, green waste composting, and zero-waste food and beverage services. Sustainability education will be woven throughout the festival, setting a new standard for eco-conscious cultural events in the region. With a 'leave no trace' approach, Tanweer ensures that its footprint is minimal, proving that large-scale gatherings can be deeply respectful of the land that hosts them.
Returning with a more dynamic and expressive identity, the second edition of Tanweer is a chance for individuals to step into the desert once more, giving them the opportunity to reflect, reconnect, and realign through the universal language of music. This is more than a festival; it is a movement for those who seek deeper meaning, community, and beauty in a world too often divided.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Syyaha
3 days ago
- Syyaha
The Iconic Tanweer Festival Returns to the Sands of Mleiha for a Powerful Second Edition this November
Something truly incredible is set to once again light up the Sharjah desert this November 2025 with the return of the Tanweer Festival. Following the success of its debut edition, the one-of-a-kind festival returns to the majestic dunes of Mleiha this November 21st, 22nd, and 23rd, bringing with it a renewed call for enlightenment through music, art, and shared human experience. Set in the breathtaking natural beauty of Sharjah's Mleiha region, this celebration of global unity is designed to ignite connection, understanding, and inner discovery through an unforgettable cultural journey under the stars. At the heart of Tanweer Festival is the visionary leadership of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, whose passion for cultural dialogue, spiritual growth, and sustainability inspired the festival's creation. Driven by a belief in the transformative power of music, nature, and shared experiences, Sheikha Bodour envisioned Tanweer as a platform that transcends borders, connects communities, and nurtures a deeper understanding of our shared humanity. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi recently commented, 'We are thrilled to bring Tanweer Festival back for its second edition, and this time, it's even more ambitious, immersive, and meaningful. Last year's debut was just the beginning of a journey that resonated deeply with so many people, and this year we are building on that foundation with a richer programme, stronger sustainability practices, and an even more powerful message of unity. I truly can't wait to welcome our growing community back to the Mleiha desert to continue this journey together.' This year, Tanweer Festival, which translates to the festival of enlightenment, embraces the theme of 'What you Seek Is Seeking You,' a famous quote from Rumi, the 13th-century poet and mystic whose work transcends cultures, religions, and generations. Through music and poetry, Rumi encouraged people to explore the depths of our inner selves, reconnect with the natural world, and find unity in diversity, values that lie at the very heart of Tanweer. What to Expect The festival grounds are carefully curated to reflect its holistic ethos. The Main Stage will be a multisensory arena with ambient lighting, ancestral music, and mountain-side projections. The Dome acts as the heart of community learning, hosting discussions and workshops, while the Tree of Life serves as a serene space for gathering and reflection. Nourish, the festival's culinary hub, offers organic, farm-to-table dishes including vegan, vegetarian, and traditional Bedouin-style BBQs. The Marketplace features handpicked artisans offering unique handcrafted items, while immersive art installations transform the desert into an open-air No TraceSustainability remains a non-negotiable pillar of Tanweer Festival. It is a no single-use plastic event with a dedicated reuse and recycle strategy, green waste composting, and zero-waste food and beverage services. Sustainability education will be woven throughout the festival, setting a new standard for eco-conscious cultural events in the region. With a 'leave no trace' approach, Tanweer ensures that its footprint is minimal, proving that large-scale gatherings can be deeply respectful of the land that hosts them. Returning with a more dynamic and expressive identity, the second edition of Tanweer is a chance for individuals to step into the desert once more, giving them the opportunity to reflect, reconnect, and realign through the universal language of music. This is more than a festival; it is a movement for those who seek deeper meaning, community, and beauty in a world too often divided.
Daily Tribune
12-03-2025
- Daily Tribune
Golden Nights and Gourmet Delights at The Masaya Pavilion
The Masaya Pavilion by stc, nestled within The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, is an opulent tribute to Arabian grandeur. Its regal ambience is enriched with golden arches and deep purple hues, evoking a sense of royalty. Softly glowing lanterns cast a warm and inviting glow, setting the perfect mood for Ramadan evenings. But the true spectacle lies beyond the décor—the magnificent spread of international cuisine, brought to life with multiple live stations. These stations ensure each dish is served at its best quality, preserving its ideal temperature and texture—a hallmark of exceptional five-star dining. As I wandered past the lavish buffet counters during iftar, I was captivated by the tempting aromas that filled the air, promising an enchanting culinary experience. The first dish to catch my eye was the muhammara, its rich orange-red hue standing out beautifully. This exquisite dip, crafted from walnuts, roasted red peppers, and pomegranate molasses, had a rustic texture and a delicate balance of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavours. Paired with smoky mutabbal and bread, it was a nourishing start to the evening. Sushi lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice with an array of freshly prepared sushi, sashimi, and maki rolls. I selected the shrimp tempura and California rolls, each bite delightfully fresh and perfectly complemented by a touch of wasabi and soy sauce. This time, the dolmas were presented in a unique way—sliced into neat discs instead of traditional cylinders. This thoughtful plating allowed me to enjoy both varieties, grape leaf and eggplant-wrapped dolmas, without committing to a full portion. Their filling was tangy, flavourful, and satisfying. The selection for the main course was nothing short of spectacular, offering a mix of local, regional, and international delicacies. The stir-fried noodles with vibrant vegetables and tender chicken stood out with their well-balanced Asian flavours. This year, a special highlight was the Indian-style masala kingfish, marinated in a fragrant blend of fresh coriander, chilli, and spices. Though the buffet featured traditional Ramadan staples such as lamb ghoozi, harees, and madrouba, I was drawn to the grill station. I indulged in a generous selection of chunky fish tikka, succulent lamb chops, shish tawook, and malai chicken tikka. My favourite was the malai chicken tikka—each bite meltingly tender, infused with the delicate richness of yoghurt, cream, and mild spices. For meat lovers, the carving station is a must-visit. Here, you will find a gourmet selection of wagyu beef, roasted lamb, and succulent roast chicken. A grilled hamour fillet, glistening invitingly, also caught my eye. As someone partial to chicken, I opted for the skin-on roast chicken with mushroom sauce, which was impeccably cooked—juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The incredibly tender roasted lamb served with rich au jus was a comforting indulgence. Then came the most awaited part—the desserts! Executive Pastry Chef, Devopriyo Gupta and his team, have orchestrated a spectacular dessert display that is nothing short of a sweet lover's paradise. A lavish selection of petite pastries, panna cotta, fudgy brownies, delicate cakes, and rich puddings awaits, alongside classic Indian mithai such as kaju katli and jalebis. Arabic delights such as mahalabia, um Ali, and qatayef add to the indulgence. The cheesecake, adorned with fresh berries, is a huge hit, disappearing quickly as diners rush for a slice. Among my favorites was the mango sago pudding, bursting with the tropical touch of sweet mango and creamy coconut milk, and of course the luscious, melt-in-your-mouth halawet el jibn. But the hidden gem of the dessert spread is the croffle and crepe station, discreetly tucked behind the grand display. You must try the croffle (a fusion of croissant and waffle) with toppings inspired by the famous Dubai chocolate. The warm, freshly prepared croffle generously topped with pistachio spread, butter-roasted kunafa, and a drizzle of Nutella is so tasty! The contrast of chewy yet slightly crisp croffle and the crunchy and buttery kunafa to the velvety smooth spreads was pure bliss. If you prefer, the same combination can be recreated as a crepe—equally divine, I would imagine. As you savor this grand feast, live entertainment adds to the vibrant ambiance of ghabga, making the evening truly special. The pavilion also offers private seating for corporate events, large family gatherings, and special celebrations, ensuring a personalised and memorable experience. The Masaya Pavilion at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, is not just a place to dine—it is a culinary journey that celebrates tradition, flavours, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. It is an experience that lingers long after the final bite, a testament to fine hospitality and exquisite gastronomy. Pricing information: Iftar: BD 40 per person Ghabga: BD 45 per person For bookings, contact +973 17586499 or email
Trade Arabia
25-02-2025
- Trade Arabia
Hyatt opens Andaz Doha in Qatar
Hyatt has announced the opening of Andaz Doha, marking the debut of the lifestyle brand in Qatar and the fourth Hyatt brand in the city. Located in the prestigious West Bay, less than a 20-minute drive from Hamad International Airport, Andaz Doha offers a window to explore the city's wonders and cultural attractions including City Center Doha Mall, the Doha Exhibition & Convention Center (DECC), Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Centre and more. The hotel features 256 guestrooms, which includes 32 suites and 4 Royal suites, as well as 56 residences for guests seeking long-term stays, varying from one to three bedrooms. The property will have three distinctive dining concepts – The Salt Road Doha, which is now officially open, as well as Mr. & Mrs. Hawker and Mumble Jungle, which are set to open in the coming months. Stephen Ansell, Managing Director, Middle East and Africa, Hyatt, commented, 'We are delighted by the debut of one of our lifestyle brands in Qatar with the opening of Andaz Doha. The property marks an exciting milestone for Hyatt's growing brand portfolio as it represents the third Andaz branded property in the Middle East.' 'We are thrilled to debut the Andaz brand in Doha in one of the country's most sought-after destinations', said Jafar Abu Baji, General Manager at Andaz Doha. 'Through collaborations with local artists, Andaz Doha pays homage to the country's rich culture, and we look forward to welcoming guests to a new level of luxury lifestyle hospitality in the city.' CONCEPT AND DESIGN Andaz Doha is an elegant representation of Qatari culture, celebrating the city's authenticity through unique luxury touchpoints. A sophisticated color palette of gold, rose gold and bronze throughout represents the region's wealth and incredible contributions to art while the luscious maroon color honors the Qatari flag. Designed by Brime Robbins, Andaz Doha offers awe-inspiring 'Airlock' entrance; an immersive space featuring a sea of kaleidoscopic lights referencing the multi-faceted landscape of Doha. The canopy takes center stage in the hotel's elegant lobby, alluding to Qatar's traditional craft of Sadu weaving design. Guests will also encounter a replica of a traditional "Katara pigeon tower", paying tribute to Qatar's historic use of messenger birds. Ornate wooden doorways with custom handles shaped like Arab walking sticks are a nod to the region's Bedouin past, while custom water-inspired carpets weaving through the corridors are inspired by Doha's stunning coastline. The journey of discovery continues throughout the hotel with details found in every corner including geometric mosaic tiles, traditional woven textiles, calligraphy work, and disruptive art. GUESTROOMS AND SUITES The hotel's 312 rooms, suites and residences have been designed with modern interpretations of Qatari traditions and heritage. Spread across 26 floors, Andaz Doha guest rooms provides a luxurious and comfortable setting to enjoy the city's vibrant attractions. Sea or city views are available, with spacious 19 square meter bathrooms including a separate bath and shower. All rooms include a mini bar as well as eco-friendly amenities. Guests will encounter patterned cushions designed with the Qatari weaving technique, 'Al Sadu', iridescent orbs, locally sourced stone and kaleidoscopic shapes. Andaz Doha features 56 spacious residences including 34 one-bedroom residences, 12 two-bedroom residences and 10 three-bedroom residences; offering all the comforts of home in a stylish and luxurious space. Designed in tasteful hues of cream, amber and gold range in size from 100 square meters to 300 square meters and feature walk-in wardrobe spaces. The elegant residences are complete with dedicated parking spaces and resident-only elevators, designed to provide privacy and accessibility. Residents have access to the hotel's amenities including the gym, pool and spa with personalised hotel benefits available to long-term guests. DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT Andaz Doha's culinary offerings draw inspiration from across the globe, ranging from South African cooking-inspired concepts to Asian fare: Officially open now, The Salt Road Doha is located in the lobby and explores the vital ingredient 'salt', one of the earth's oldest minerals. Set to open in the coming months, Mr. & Mrs. Hawker (third floor) will draw from the concept of a Singaporean Hawker Center to feature a market-to-table philosophy. The dining options will also include the only enclosed outdoor terrace in Doha, with city and sea views. Expected to launch later this year, Mumble Jungle (third floor) nods to a rainforest aesthetic to feature an assortment of vibrant cocktails and mocktails, inspired by Afro-Cuban classic creations. WELLNESS Alara Spa, meaning 'water fairy' in Arabic, is focused on the Hammam bathing ritual. Featuring six treatment rooms with separate male and female areas, a herbal sauna, steam rooms and multi-sensory showers, Alara Spa's menu features a selection of wellness rituals, face treatments, body scrubs and soothing massages, all of which incorporate ancient customs with contemporary practices. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the fitness center, a fully equipped, 24-hour studio with cardiovascular and weight-training equipment. Additionally, set to open to guests soon, a beautifully designed outdoor pool makes for an ideal setting to enjoy moments of poolside bliss, while the poolside bar serves refreshments. SOCIAL SPACES The property offers various facilities for business and leisure travel. On the ground floor sits the Andaz Lounge, a space for productive workflow or private meetings. The hotel also features 1,600 square meters of meeting and event spaces, including a 750-square-meter ballroom. With four studio spaces within Andaz Doha, each represents different aspects of Doha's rich cultural heritage. The Calligrapher Studio showcases the graceful form of writing, blending the old and new scripts through design. The Weaving Studio was inspired by the traditional "Al Sadu" technique, an ancient art form in which raw materials, such as sheep wool, cotton, camel hair and goat hair, are spun or knit into fabrics. The Architecture Studio draws on elegant artifacts with cultural references and provide a feeling of 'open workspace' through its neutral colour palette. Finally, The Navigator Studio takes inspiration from traditional fishing techniques, with its wooden floors designed to represent the Jalboot used for navigating the high seas to seek pearls.
