Emiratis, expats celebrate 'The Mother of the Nation' in UAE

Abu Dhabi - The festival sheds light on the vision and far-reaching contributions of Her Highness Shaikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

The Mother of the Nation Festival, which opened its gates for the first time on Thursday on Abu Dhabi's Corniche, saw thousands of Emiratis and expats drawn to experience the festival's exciting palette of activities and events.
The festival sheds light on the vision and far-reaching contributions of Her Highness Shaikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union, and Chairwoman of the Supreme Council of Motherhood and Childhood. A series of displays, activities and performances throughout the festival grounds promote the importance of family coherence, as well as nurturing cultural understanding within UAE society, with a special focus on mothers' roles in promoting family cohesion and maintaining social values and traditions.
The outdoor festival offers five distinctly themed zones: Souq, Beach Dining, Arts, Conservation, and Active, in addition to the Festival's centrepiece Pavilion. All areas of the festival are designed to provide an interactive and immersive atmosphere for visitors - from individuals to families - including a collection of artistic and cultural activities.
Residents spoke to Khaleej Times about what they enjoy about the festival, and why celebrating the Mother of the Nation is fundamental for the UAE.
Visitors highlighted on the notion of unity and familiarity between people. Although citizens and expats come from all walks of life, it's humbling to see different faces, cultures and ages join together to celebrate the contributions Her Highness Shaikha Fatima bint Mubarak has made to the UAE, to women, and to children.
Emirati, Khalifa Al Fahim said that the Mother of the Nation has done so much for community and continues to stand by the people, thus it's only natural to celebrate her good deeds.
"The Mother of the Nation is a mother and a sister to all of us. She has made such immense contributions to the society and continues to do so."
 "Shaikha Fatima makes an effort to make us all feel like one family unit. She even visited my mother when I was born."
"This celebration is a reminder of her great success and a reminder to us all - that kindness and goodness triumphs over all," he added.
Shamsa Qimzi said that the festival is a symbolic event of hope and unity, as it is uniting people from across the region.
"It is wonderful seeing people from across the GCC celebrate a woman who stands by other women and stands by crucial topics, such as youth, healthcare and education."
"The Mother of the Nation is a symbol of what a woman should be," added the Emirati.
Expat, Maha Hameed said: "It's been a beautiful day with family and friends who have all enjoyed the charming atmosphere, it's a positive and light-hearted vibe."
"The kids spent loads of time at the workshop, they love painting. We also got to taste some good food and just relax to the music performances, the weather has also been a bonus treat," she added.
Diana Yousef said options at the festival are endless, noting that there is something new and unique for just about anyone to enjoy.
"I love how the festival incorporates history with modernity," she said, adding that, "from the safari rides, to the awesome art installation, to the participation of painting, the graffiti wall and the live band. It's cool seeing a variety of art, food and culture in one space."
Since launching in early March, the festival hashtags have recorded over 650 million impressions on social media channels. The Arabic hashtag has received about 482 million hits, while #MOTNFestival received over 169 million. Followers expressed enthusiasm in anticipation of the event launch. 
The colourful festival, which incorporates diverse cultures, aspects of UAE's unique heritage, and dynamic modernity of the food and art world, runs for ten days from March 24 until April 2, 4pm to midnight.
Entry tickets are Dh 20 per adult and Dh 10 for children under 12, while children aged five and under are admitted for free. The proceeds from the festival will be donated to a charity chosen by the festival's organising committee.
(Photos by Ryan Lim)
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Abu Dhabi