In pictures: 19th Liwa Date Festival kicks off in Al Dhafra

The 19th edition of the Liwa Date Festival kicked off on Wednesday, July 19, in Liwa, Al Dhafra Region, under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, visited the 19th Liwa Date Festival, reaffirming the UAE leadership's support for the event, which is one of the most important heritage festivals that contribute to preserving the UAE's cultural heritage. His Highness met festival participants and toured several government and private pavilions showcasing the latest developments and modern technologies used in the cultivation of palm trees, vegetables, fruits and other foodstuffs.

Held in the Al Dhafra Region in western Abu Dhabi emirate, the Liwa Date Festival is an annual event that introduces date producers to modern agricultural practices and facilitates the exchange of expertise on the best ways to produce the highest quality date.

The 10-day event features many competitions, displays and activities celebrating dates and the UAE's broader cultural heritage.

The current session coincides with the Year of Sustainability. This year's edition also reflects the directive of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to support sustainable agricultural practices and the preservation of heritage, reported Wam.

The Liwa Dates Festival, an esteemed heritage event in Abu Dhabi, honours a symbol deeply rooted in Emirati culture and society — the Date Palm tree.

Naima Al Mansouri, Member of the National Council tours during the Liwa Dates Festival .

Rich in nutritional value, dates have been a vital source of sustenance. At the same time, the versatile trunks, leaves, and various components of palm trees have been ingeniously utilised in construction, handicrafts, and toolmaking, reflecting the resourcefulness of Emirati ancestors.

Liwa Dates Festival Photo: Afra Mubarak Al Nofeli/ Gulf News

Saif Ateeq Al Falahi Executive Vice President, Group Support & Special Operations, Liwa Dates Festival takes a tour.

As a prominent cultural and heritage extravaganza, the festival attracts tourists from far and wide, offering a captivating glimpse into dates' pivotal role in the Emirati way of life.

Throughout the ages, this majestic tree has played a pivotal role in sustaining the nutritional needs of desert-dwelling tribes, including those inhabiting the lands of the United Arab Emirates.

Emirati musicians perform during the annual Liwa Date Festival.