Hatta Festival showcases mountain region’s culture, nature, community spirit

Brand Dubai has launched the 2025 Hatta Festival, running until December 28 on the Leem Lake waterfront, set against Hatta’s stunning mountain backdrop.

The event, part of the #DubaiDestinations campaign, offers a mix of cultural, recreational and community activities for families and visitors of all ages.

Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, says this year's edition builds on last year’s success, which attracted over 650,000 visitors.

The festival aims to showcase Hatta’s unique tourism and cultural assets while supporting the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.

It also shines a spotlight on local businesses.

Amina Taher, member of the organising committee, says 30 ventures are taking part under the “Proudly from Dubai” initiative — half of them run by Hatta residents.

Their food, crafts and locally produced goods aim to boost small and medium enterprises and encourage homegrown talent.

This year’s edition also includes the Young Entrepreneurs Competition, featuring four emerging business owners from Hatta, along with more than 150 workshops, activities for all ages, and over 100 performances and TV shows.

Under the directives of Ahmed bin Mohammed, Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, today launched the 2025 edition of the Hatta Festival. The festival runs until 28 December on the three-hectare Leem Lake waterfront, against the backdrop of Hatta’s… pic.twitter.com/yZsFoi8t86

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 5, 2025

At the entrance, visitors are welcomed by a large games area featuring giant versions of classic board games such as chess, checkers, connect-four and snakes & ladders, creating a nostalgic and fun environment for families.

The Winter Games Zone introduces adventure-based activities including a human crane challenge, bungee jumping, bumper cars and large-scale skill games suitable for all ages.

A new Hatta-themed Escape Room offers puzzle-solving experiences inspired by the area’s heritage and natural environment, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving in an immersive setting.

Outdoor workshops overlooking Leem Lake offer hands-on arts and crafts sessions inspired by Hatta’s environment, led by skilled local creators. With more than 150 sessions for all ages, the workshop area serves as a lively creative hub throughout the festival.

The Brand Dubai Store returns this year, giving visitors the opportunity to purchase festival-themed souvenirs.

The market features a wide selection of creative products inspired by the works of more than 10 artists, who contributed over 25 distinctive artworks available for purchase.