The Mansour Festival in Abu Dhabi

The Mansour Festival is a family event in Abu Dhabi built around Mansour, a much-loved character from Emirati children's entertainment. Now in its third edition, it runs for four days and is laid out as a small world of its own, with seven themed zones, live shows and attractions designed for visitors of every age, from small children to grandparents.

Each zone has its own character. Mansour's House lets guests walk through the home of the character and join games inspired by him, while Nano's Funfair brings carnival rides and classic fairground attractions. Dhabia's Tent focuses on Emirati heritage, with traditional workshops, storytelling and hands-on activities. Little Explorer is aimed at curious young minds, with creative workshops, interactive games, photo spots and a human claw machine. The Adventure Hub imagines Mansour's Age of AI, where visitors can talk to his hologram and try digital, technology-driven activities. At Dhabia's Friends you can meet Dhabia and her animal companions, get close to the animals and try horse and camel riding. Bites & Vibes combines food stalls with live stage performances.

Beyond the zones, the festival fills the grounds with colourful parades, roaming performers, live stage shows, competitions and interactive challenges. Spectacular drone shows bring Mansour's world to life in the sky, and fireworks add to the atmosphere.

The festival takes place at Gateway Park North on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi's leisure district, which is also home to Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld, as well as hotels, restaurants and a waterfront promenade. Yas Island is a drive from Dubai, usually about an hour to an hour and a half by car, so many Dubai families make a day of the trip.

The format suits families with children, groups of friends and anyone curious about Emirati culture in a relaxed, playful setting. With so many zones and activities, it is a festival you explore at your own pace rather than watch from a seat, and the mix of heritage workshops, rides and technology gives different ages something to enjoy side by side.