DAZ festival in Al Ain celebrates nature with forests, food and films

Make like Mowgli and join these family-friendly, nature-themed adventures.

DAZ is back. No, we’re not talking about the detergent. Instead, it’s an acronym for Dar Al Zain Festival, which celebrates nature and takes place from 12 to 21 April. The event is bursting with family-friendly entertainment including art installations, cool concerts, fairground rides, street food stalls and local markets. 

DAZ Festival in Al Ain is inspired by the landscape and takes place in Al Ain Zoo. Making the most of the surroundings, the festival promises a blend of nature, entertainment, and culture.

Themed Farm Meets Safari, this year’s DAZ Festival is set to entertain visitors with plenty of nature-inspired adventures. The children’s play park, designed to ignite young imaginations, features wooden structures, slides, swings, and more. Meanwhile, adults can unleash their inner child on carnival rides and test their skills at various games. From a giant slide to zip lines and climbing walls.

You’ll also get to enjoy live performances or be enthralled by wildlife appearances and science shows. From mesmerising bird displays to giraffe feedings and lemur walks, there’s something for every animal lover. You can also explore enclosures like the Big Cat Oasis and the Hippo & Crocodile exhibit.

Don’t miss the DAZ Market, where sustainable brands and local artisans showcase their wares. From traditional crafts like Safafa and Talli to calligraphy and henna, local artisans will showcase their talents. And for the little ones, there are workshops where they can try their hand at everything from soil painting to worm composting — an activity they are bound to enjoy.

Now, with all that excitement, you’re bound to get hungry, and DAZ Festival has a culinary safari with offerings ranging from local delicacies to global flavours. Indulge in savoury dishes or treat your sweet tooth to animal-themed desserts. As the sun sets, it’ll be time to gather the family for Movies in the Park, featuring beloved family favourites like Madagascar and Zootopia — on brand with this year’s theme.

Tickets for the DAZ Festival are now live, starting from AED 35 for access to both the festival and Al Ain Zoo. For those seeking the full experience, the DAZ Pass, priced at AED 115, grants access to all rides and activities, as well as paid experiences — excluding skill games and Main Arena concerts. So mark your calendars and prepare for an adventure like no other.

GO: Visit www.dazfestival.ae for more information.