The second edition of the UAE’s biggest national, cultural and interactive event, the Mother of the Nation Festival, opened to the public on Sunday, 26th March, 2017.

The festival celebrates the progressive vision and tireless contributions of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, showcasing the nation’s inspirational values, pursuit of a legacy of empowerment and responsibility for future generations, as well as continued efforts towards conservation and sustainability.

Throughout the 10-day festival, which is organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), visitors will experience a range of concerts, featuring mesmerising performances from Funk Radius and the Arabic Orchestra.

During its 10-day run, the festival will present some of the most successful shows from around the world, among which is “Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions,” which has dazzled audiences across the globe, according to organisers.

Interactive workshops will engage with visitors in the Progress Zone, offering fascinating discussions surrounding featured installations such as the Planetarium, Lanterns on the Beach and Waterlight Graffiti.

Boxing, fitness and Zumba sessions will provide guests with the opportunity to let loose in a fun-filled environment, while Tai Chi sessions offer a more relaxed form of exercise.

In addition, visitors can experience the global premiere of the Miyah Pavilion (World of Water), where they will embark on an interactive journey that illustrates the global use of water and ways to conserve it, sending a message of water sustainability in a fun and educational manner.

Opening the Majlis: Interactive Conversations schedule – which is another new addition this year and is considered a unique platform for rich discussions – is ‘End Small Talk,’ a discussion relating to society, technology, culture, morality and the meaning of life with Lyne Ismail and Farah Bushnaq.

The 10-day programme highlights the message of women’s empowerment, culture, communication and community in Emirati society with opening-day sessions also covering happiness, sustainable fashion and a watercolour workshop.

The programme presents up to five daily talks, featuring speakers such as CNN’s Becky Anderson; Dr Shefali Tsabary, whose book ‘The Conscious Parent’ was endorsed by Oprah Winfrey as the most profound book on parenting; Hala Kazim, counsellor, author, artist and founder of ‘Journey Through Change’; Sara Al Madani, renowned fashion designer; and Essa Al Ansari, one of the leading fitness experts in the UAE.

The entry price is AED 20 per adult and AED 10 for children aged 5-12, while children under five are admitted for free.