WATCH: 10-day ‘National Mother’s Day’ kicks off Abu Dhabi Corniche

Executive Committee member Sheikh Theab bin Mohamed bin Zayed inaugurated the 10-day festival and toured the grounds ahead of today’s public opening.

Running until December 18, the event includes art installations, international and local music performances, interactive workshops and family-friendly activities.

During the inauguration, Sheikh Theab was accompanied by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi), Maryam Eid Al Mheiri, Director of Media Office, Abu Dhabi Government, Saood Al Hosani, Deputy Minister of DCT Abu Dhabi and Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director of Tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi.

This year, organizers have even more attractions for visitors.

Khaleeji music sensation from Kuwait, the Miami band, returns tonight by popular demand after playing to packed festival crowds last year. The quartet rose to fame in the 1990s with songs like “Juwaira” and “Ma’ak Radhi,” and they will take the stage to perform their hits for fans.

“[The Festival] It gets bigger and better every year and continues to be the ultimate entertainment festival in the region, with 10 days of non-stop fun and excitement sure to create memorable moments. With six unique zones and even more international vendors this year, the festival truly has something for everyone. This one-of-a-kind event enhances Abu Dhabi’s reputation as an unrivaled destination for unique mega-events that bring together the best shows and entertainment from around the world in one place,” said Al Geziry.

This year’s festival has six themed areas.

At Inspire Space, visitors will enter a world of creativity, and Funhouse will showcase ANIMA’s interactive digital art installations. Youseum, the social media museum for sharing moments, comes to the Middle East for the first time. Dukes Cupboard, London’s premier vintage clothing and international streetwear store, also makes its regional debut, offering international merchandise and vintage clothing. Foodies will sample delicious dishes from London street food outlet Truffle Burger as well as two offerings from Australia – traditional knafeh from Knafeh Bakery and Mediterranean flavors from Bar Biscotti, both of which are opening their UAE locations at this year’s festival. The first pop-up store.

Thrill Zone offers heart-pounding physical and virtual reality games for all ages. There’s Versus, a multiplayer and collaborative game designed using new VR technology developed in Canada, and Pixel Haus, an inclusive space featuring pool, arcade games and skill-based activities. Visitors can also experience a haunted house, or team up with family and friends to plan a bank heist at Arcade Heist.

For the kids, there’s a colorful playground with an interactive exhibit featuring the popular YouTube character CoComelon. A series of uniquely designed role-play rooms, as well as carnival rides, play spaces, games of skill and innovative activities will help attract younger visitors. In this area, there’s Taiyaki (a lovely fish-shaped Japanese cake made with a secret recipe by La Pecera in Spain), as well as delicious treats from The Mac Factory in the UK and The Treats Club Dessert Bar.

At Food Hub, a variety of dining concepts celebrate traditional dishes, offer street food, and offer food pairings that taste innovative. These include Insta desserts from several British brands, including The Knot Churros and Whipped London, as well as burgers from Patty & Bun.

Regional stars and A-list artists will perform their hits at the Live Arena.

Finally, the shopping area will include a retail selection of fashion, accessories and beauty products, as well as British bakery Peggy Porschen with its cupcakes and desserts.