Latest news with #AMEINAHALZEYOUDI
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Community spirit shines as Liwa Date Festival grows as a symbol of Emirati pride
17 July 2025 21:43 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (LIWA CITY)Year after year, Liwa Date Festival exceeds expectations, expanding in scale, quality, and impact. Behind its success is a passionate team — including volunteers who work closely with organisers to ensure smooth operations and an engaging experience for all Al Mazrouei, a university student, has travelled from Abu Dhabi to Al Dhafra Region to volunteer at the festival, and she has been doing so for three years now. 'This festival is not just about dates — it's about heritage, family, and pride,' Al Mazrouei told Aletihad . To her, devoting time to the event is a tribute to her roots, an expression of pride in the culture she grew up with.'My grandparents were date farmers, and by volunteering, I feel like I'm honouring their legacy and preserving our traditions for future generations,' she said. At the festival, volunteers help out in several aspects, from managing logistics and guiding visitors to assisting with competitions and promoting sustainability initiatives. Their efforts support the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority's goal of creating an organised, enriching experience for both visitors and participants. Ahmed Al Mansouri, who is also from Abu Dhabi, is volunteering for the first time this year at the fest's 21st edition. 'What inspired me to volunteer was the sense of belonging,' he said.'Everyone here is working with a shared goal: to celebrate something deeply rooted in our culture. I've met people from all over the country, and we're all connected through this experience.'It's more than just an event, Al Mansouri said, 'it's a national story we're writing together.'For Aisha Al Rumaithi, another volunteer and an environmental science graduate, being part of the event is a way to show her appreciation of the local culture. 'I grew up hearing stories about the Liwa Oasis and how important dates are to our survival and identity,' said Al Rumaithi. 'Now, to be part of an event that blends our past with our future — sustainability, innovation, and culture — is incredibly meaningful to me.'With its strong focus on community engagement, education, and economic development, Liwa Date Festival stands as a testament to the UAE's commitment to preserving its cultural roots while looking confidently toward the future. From the hands of farmers to the hearts of visitors and the tireless work of volunteers, the festival continues to blossom —season after season — as a symbol of resilience, unity, and Emirati pride.
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Abu Dhabi real estate sector sees robust growth in H1 2025: Report
17 July 2025 21:39 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)Abu Dhabi's property market has continued its impressive upward momentum in the first half of 2025, as detailed in Bayut's Abu Dhabi Sales Market Report H1 2025. The report highlights notable gains across affordable, mid-tier, and luxury property segments, driven by strong investor confidence, lifestyle-oriented developments, and high rental to Bayut report, affordable apartment prices rose by up to 7%, while affordable villas saw increases of up to 5% compared to H2 2024. In the mid-tier segment, apartment prices climbed by 2% to 11%, with Al Reem Island leading the way. Notably, mid-tier villas in Al Samha registered a significant 26.7% jump in price per square foot, the highest across all real estate also remained in high demand. The price of luxury apartments increased by up to 17%, particularly on Saadiyat Island and Yas Island. Luxury villa prices rose between 6% and 9%, with Yas Island dominating buyer interest. However, Al Jubail Island was the only area in the luxury category to experience a drop in villa prices, declining by 17.8%, likely due to shifting investor buyers seeking affordable options, Al Reef emerged as the most popular area for both apartments and villas, supported by high returns on investment (ROI) and relatively modest price increases. Al Ghadeer followed closely, offering attractive pricing and strong the mid-tier apartment segment, Al Reem Island stood out with a 10.7% price increase, driven by its central location and growing infrastructure. Masdar City and Baniyas also attracted investors with solid ROIs and moderate price appreciation. Meanwhile, Al Raha Gardens led the mid-tier villa segment, offering a strong 6.17% ROI and steady pricing buyers continued to favour Yas Island, Al Raha Beach, and Saadiyat Island. Apartments in Saadiyat saw the highest surge in per square foot pricing at 16.5%, while Yas Island apartments posted the highest ROI in the luxury category at 7.15%.In terms of rental yields, Al Reef topped the list for both affordable apartments (9.33%) and villas (6.34%). Masdar City delivered the highest ROI for mid-tier apartments at 8.41%, while Al Raha Gardens led for mid-tier villas. Among luxury properties, Yas Island posted the best ROI across both apartments (7.15%) and villas (5.46%), thanks in part to renewed interest following the announcement of Disneyland Abu developments have also gained traction in H1 2025. In the affordable segment, Al Reeman 1 in Al Shamkha and Bloom Living in Zayed City stood out. Yas Bay led mid-tier apartment projects, while Nawayef Park Views and Saadiyat Cultural District were preferred luxury developments. On the villa front, affordable buyers focused on Bloom Living and Al Reeman 2. Yas Acres remained a favourite in the mid-tier bracket, while Nawayef West and Saadiyat Lagoons continued to attract luxury investors.
Al Etihad
10-07-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa: History meets community spirit in this beloved home
11 July 2025 01:19 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)Standing at the entrance of the Al Ain Region, the historic Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa welcomes travellers from Abu Dhabi, offering a glimpse into the enduring Emirati tradition of a leader opening his home to the in 1958, the sprawling house was the residence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Nahyan (1909–1979), the father-in-law of the UAE's Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, and a revered elder of the Al Nahyan Mohammed bin Khalifa was a prominent figure in the sociopolitical life of Al Ain and Abu Dhabi. His home became a bustling hub for the community, hosting gatherings, discussions, and moments that shaped the character of the city.'The house brings back the memory of Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa and highlights the transitional period the area went through,' said Shamma Heyab Alketbi, Acting Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa Unit Head, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. A quick glance at the home reveals distinctive elements of traditional Emirati architecture, from elegant pillars and delicate plaster decorations to the spacious courtyard. Yet, modern touches are also present, reflected in the clean lines, colourful interiors, and the use of materials like cement and blend of old and new reflects the 'Transition Period' of the 1930s to 1960s, a time when hybrid architecture emerged, influenced by both traditional Emirati styles and the economic currents driven by oil 2008, Al Ain Municipality officially handed over the house's stewardship to the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. After years of careful planning and restoration starting in 2017, it reopened its doors in the house does not display historical artefacts, which are preserved in museums, it features many original architectural elements, including the main entrance door. The spaces are alive with colour and history, each room telling a story through its vibrant walls and structural evolution - from a single-floor layout to its current two-level the restored house is much more than a historical monument. True to its legacy as a community space, the facility has become a versatile venue for meetings, workshops, cultural activities, and educational houses several rooms - ranging from intimate 8-person spaces to a grand hall that can accommodate up to 50 attendees. These are regularly used by government departments, private schools, and cultural organisations, offering a flexible and historically meaningful alternative to conventional venues like summer, it comes alive with children's energy and laughter as it hosts camps for kids of various age groups. 'Every day, children engage in different heritage-based activities,' Alketbi said. 'It helps them connect with the past in a meaningful and engaging way.'A new café is set to open on the premises in November, providing a space for casual gatherings. The site also features the RFLCT Art Center, which regularly organises a variety of art workshops and creative programmes, further enriching the cultural offerings available at the site. As Alketbi explains, the ultimate goal is preservation-not only of bricks and mortar but of memory, identity, and community. In a region where change has been swift and dramatic, Bait Mohammed bin Khalifa stands as a gentle reminder of the roots from which the modern UAE has grown.
Al Etihad
07-07-2025
- Al Etihad
Horseback riding draws residents, tourists outdoors during Abu Dhabi's holiday season
8 July 2025 00:24 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)As summer takes hold in Abu Dhabi, horseback riding is offering residents and tourists a way to stay active while exploring the landscape and engaging with a deep-rooted part of Emirati UAE has long held horses in high regard, both as symbols of heritage and as part of everyday life. While modern infrastructure has replaced traditional modes of travel, horseback riding remains a popular activity for families and visitors looking for more than just indoor appeal is especially visible during the summer break, as stables across the emirate welcome children and teenagers for riding lessons and hands-on experience in caring for horses. In Al Bahia, a quiet residential area near the coast, Sanam Horse Riding centre is one of the places drawing attention among tourists and residents for its mix of beach and desert rides, as well as training for all Maryam, a local resident, brought her daughter for lessons and said the time spent at the stables has had lasting benefits.'Horse riding plays a vital role in our children's emotional and physical development. The children's section is a favourite for me, and I'm looking forward to making the most of our summer in Abu Dhabi,' she told have also been drawn to the experience, often combining their stay in Abu Dhabi with a chance to explore its landscapes on horseback.'It was magical riding a horse by the sea at sunset,' a tourist from the UK told Aletihad.'I'll definitely come back again.'Another visitor from Germany tried horseback riding for the first time during a desert ride in Abu Dhabi, describing it as unforgettable. 'I had never been on a horse before, but the instructors were patient and helpful. It's an experience I'll never forget.'
Al Etihad
02-07-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
Open Masters Games 2026 ‘a powerful showcase of UAE's world-class hosting capabilities'
2 July 2025 23:17 AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)The UAE will once again demonstrate its world-class hosting capabilities when it holds the most diverse multisport event in the Middle East, the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026. The landmark event will take place in the UAE capital from February 6 to 15, 2026, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes' Affairs, and the Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee of the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026. The Games go beyond competitions, said Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC). 'It's a powerful showcase of the UAE's world-class hosting capabilities, uniting people of all ages and backgrounds in a vibrant atmosphere of wellness, inclusivity, and cultural exchange. It's a reminder of how sport can build bridges, inspire healthy lifestyles, and leave a legacy of vitality for future generations,' he told Aletihad . 'In the heart of the UAE - where ambition meets determination - the Open Masters Games Abu Dhabi 2026 will spark a global celebration of sport and spirit.'More than 25,000 participants representing 100 nationalities are expected to join competitions across the Games' 33 sports - from archery, basketball, cricket and football to kayaking, karate, falconry, and horse jumping. 'There truly is something for everyone. Whether you're an experienced athlete or just beginning your wellness journey, the Games embrace all levels of ability and all walks of life - especially championing people of determination,' Al Awani said. Beyond tournaments, the Games seek to inspire a lifelong love for healthy living, longevity, community and movement, while celebrating the unique culture of the UAE as the ultimate destination for world-class sporting events. 'Every step taken, every cheer heard, and every personal best achieved is a celebration of resilience, unity, and the human spirit,' Al Awani said.
