Under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Ain Region.

Features & Competitions

Features Celebrating Heritage & Cultural Competitions at AAIHEX

Explore the best of Emirati heritage through a range of unique features and cultural competitions at the International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition – Al Ain (AAIHEX). Organized in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, these activities highlight traditional crafts, cooking, coffee making, performance arts, and heritage sports, giving participants and visitors the chance to experience, learn, and celebrate our cultural identity up close.

TRADITIONAL LIVE COOKING FEATURE & COMPETITION

As part of the International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition – Al Ain (AAIHEX) in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the Traditional Cooking Competition celebrates authentic Emirati cuisine and its time-honored techniques.

Participants prepare classic dishes showcasing authenticity, ingredient quality, hygiene, and presentation, with a judging panel evaluating taste, cleanliness, creativity, and overall presentation.

In between the competition slots, visitors can also enjoy engaging live cooking shows featuring traditional recipes and culinary demonstrations throughout the day.

Awards:

  • 1st Prize: 3,000 Dhs

  • 2nd Prize: 2,000 Dhs

  • 3rd to 5th Prizes: 1,000 Dhs each

Morning session: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Evening session: 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM

Open To: 18+ years

Location: Hall 3 next to the RVs & Caravans sector
For registration, call: (0557178441)

HADHEERA FEATURE: ARABIC COFFEE WORKSHOPS

The Arabic Coffee Workshops, organized by the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, celebrates Arabic coffee as a key symbol of Emirati hospitality and cultural heritage, preserving its traditions for future generations.

Morning Session: Introductory workshops focusing on the principles of Emirati hospitality and traditional etiquette, highlighting the customs, values, and refined social practices that define the Emirati way of welcoming guests.
Evening Session: Practical workshops teaching the art of roasting and preparing Arabic coffee in the traditional Emirati way, using traditional Emirati coffee making tools and utensils in the “Hadheera Feature” as done in Bedouin campsites. Participants showcase what they have learnt in the workshops and demonstrate their Arabic coffee - making skills

Award: Registered participants will receive 500 Dhs coupons upon completing the workshop. Five coupons will be given out each day.

Open To: Youth aged 12–17

Location: Hall 3 next to the RVs & Caravans sector
For registration, call: (0557178441)

AL YOLA COMPETITION

The Al Yola Competition revives this traditional Emirati art and inspires youth with values of courage, chivalry, and national pride. It showcases participants’ skill and precision in traditional movements and use of the Yola weapon before a live audience. Qualifying rounds will take place on Days 1–4 of the exhibition, with the top three contestants competing in the final round on the last day of AAIHEX.

Award:

  • 1st Prize: 5,000 Dhs

  • 2nd Prize: 4,000 Dhs

  • 3rd Prize: 3,000 Dhs

  • 4th to 7th Prize: 2,000 Dhs

  • 8th to 12th: 1,000 Dhs

Schedule: Evening, 6:00–7:00 PM daily
Open To: Participants aged 14–17, wearing traditional Emirati attire

For registration, call: (0557178441)