From waterfront activations to live music and cultural showcases, Abu Dhabi is marking the enduring bond between the UAE and Kuwait, during UAE-Kuwait Relations Week, from 29 January-4 February 2026, with citywide experiences celebrating shared heritage, culture and togetherness. The progamme reflects a shared commitment to further strengthening the close ties between the peoples of the two countries.
During the week-long festivities, residents and visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of family-friendly activities, cultural moments and live performances across the capital, including a special marine procession taking place across Abu Dhabi’s waters, with 20 decorated sailing boats carrying the UAE and Kuwait flags along the city’s coastline in a striking visual tribute to the deep-rooted relationship between the two nations, and a nightly drone show along Yas Bay Waterfront, bringing people together and offering a relaxed ambiance for families and friends to enjoy the celebrations.
Throughout the celebrations, several landmark buildings across Abu Dhabi will light up in the colours of the Kuwait flag, offering a simple but meaningful way to mark the occasion and feel a sense of home as Kuwaiti residents and visitors explore the city after dark, while Kuwaiti nationals arriving in Abu Dhabi will be welcomed at Zayed International Airport with a special reception that reflects the UAE’s renowned hospitality. From celebratory touches to thoughtful gifts, the experience sets the tone for a week of shared celebration from the moment travellers begin to arrive.
Kuwaiti families can also enjoy complimentary access to some of Yas Island’s most popular attractions, from thrilling rides at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to water-based fun at Yas Waterworld, it’s an easy way for families to spend quality time together while exploring the capital.
At the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, a special programme titled The Days of Eternal Kuwait takes centre-stage. Kuwaiti nationals can enjoy free entry to the event and experience cultural showcases, folk performances, live music and a dedicated drone show celebrating the long-standing UAE-Kuwait relationship. As part of The Days of Eternal Kuwait at the festival, the opening evening features the Kuwait Night Gala when the Emirati Orchestra will take to the stage, performing well-known classic Kuwaiti songs and offering a nostalgic cultural experience for audiences.
To mark the occasion, a number of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic cultural landmarks will offer exclusive admission discounts, including 50 per cent off at Qasr Al Hosn and 30 per cent off at Zayed National Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Natural History Museum, presenting a rare opportunity to explore the capital’s cultural riches.
Reinforcing social ties, the General Women’s Union will host the inaugural Emirati–Kuwaiti Women’s Forum, underscoring the vital role of the family in community building and the deep-rooted historical relationship between the two nations.
Manarat Al Saadiyat will host a Kuwaiti culture-inspired art workshop, free of charge for Kuwaiti nationals, accompanied by Kuwaiti music reflecting the country’s cultural heritage, while the Abu Dhabi Children’s Library will present curated programmes for young visitors that combine learning with enjoyment, introducing younger generations to Kuwaiti culture and the close bonds between the two brotherly peoples.
Visitors can engage with shared heritage through a programme of cultural activities at the Heritage Village and Al Ain Oasis, featuring traditional crafts, folklore performances and traditional dishes reflecting authentic Emirati and Kuwaiti customs and traditions.
Major shopping and leisure destinations, including The Galleria and Al Qana, are taking part in the week-long celebrations with live entertainment and distinctive retail experiences. In addition, Yas Mall and Al Jimi Mall are offering promotional offers and family-friendly activities for visitors seeking to combine shopping with the festive atmosphere.
The week of celebrations commences with Kuwait’s Timeless Nights in Abu Dhabi , a free live concert on 29 January 2026 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, bringing together artists from the UAE and Kuwait for an evening of music celebrating shared culture and connection featuring Nabeel Shuail, Ahlam, Eida Al Menhali and Abdulaziz Al Duwaihi. Entry to the concert is complimentary, with prior registration required due to limited capacity.
The capital’s skyline will be transformed into a luminous spectacle on 31 January 2026, with dazzling fireworks displays at Abu Dhabi Corniche and Yas Bay, complemented by the nightly drone shows at Yas Bay, casting a festive glow over citywide celebrations.
These experiences offer residents and visitors a meaningful way to enjoy Abu Dhabi during a week dedicated to the shared heritage and cultural connection between the UAE and Kuwait. The programme offers a range of events for everyone to enjoy.
