Looking for a way to keep the kids entertained during the long summer break? Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Summer Festival is bringing a packed schedule of learning, adventure and fun! This year, kids can take part in more than 3,000 activities, workshops, competitions, and sports sessions. From testing out AI challenges and building tech skills to exploring heritage activities, the festival offers something for every young visitor. Keep reading for all the details on what to expect and how to join.
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Sheikh Zayed Summer Festival 2026 – What To Expect
The Sheikh Zayed Summer Festival will run from July 6 to August 23. This year, the event brings together education, technology, sports, culture and entertainment under one roof. Designed for students between six and 18 years old, the festival aims to help children develop future-ready skills while encouraging creativity, teamwork and a deeper connection with UAE heritage.
The fully air-conditioned venue will feature dedicated learning zones, innovation spaces, sports facilities and family entertainment areas, giving children a chance to explore new interests while making the most of their summer break.
AI Challenges, Gaming & Future Skills
One of the festival’s biggest attractions is the AI and Innovation World pavilion, presented by the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence. The pavilion will feature nine programmes and competitions. These are focused on artificial intelligence, game development, entrepreneurship, smart solutions and real-world problem-solving challenges.
Here, children can explore how technology is shaping the future through interactive activities designed to make learning fun and practical. The Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training will also host a seven-week Summer Skills Camp. During these seven weeks, students in Grades 6 to 12 have training opportunities in areas including drone technology, 3D game design, automotive engineering and modern electrical systems. The programme will provide 588 training spaces for young participants.
Sports & Outdoor Activities
For kids who prefer action-packed experiences, the festival will offer a wide range of sports activities. We’re talking about all the favourites, including football, table tennis, skating, hockey, horse riding and camel riding.
The Abu Dhabi Winter Sports Club will provide skating and junior hockey sessions throughout the festival. So. Whether they want to compete, try a new sport or simply stay active during the holidays, this spot offers plenty of options to choose from.
Workshops, Heritage Experiences & Family Fun
Beyond technology and sports, visitors can take part in creative workshops, heritage activities, health awareness sessions and environmental programmes. The festival will also include family entertainment zones and, of course, food outlets. Visitors can also expect supporting events, including the Al Wathba Date Festival, the Productive Families Event, and the Back-to-School Event.
Several organisations, including the UAE Cybersecurity Council, will host interactive sessions covering topics such as online safety, cyber fraud awareness and responsible digital habits. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi Police will organise activities focused on community safety and traffic awareness.
Don’t Just Take Our Word For It! Here Are All The Details To Check It Out!
- Dates: July 6 to August 23, 2026
- Location: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi
- Age Group: Children aged 6 to 18
- Transport: Free transport available for participants
- Price: Free (participation details to be confirmed through official channels)
For more information, visit the official Instagram page!
Whether your child is interested in technology, sports, creativity or adventure, Sheikh Zayed Summer Festival has a full calendar of activities to keep them busy all summer long. Keep reading Gulf Buzz for more UAE events, updates and family-friendly things to do!
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