UAE Cultural Days in Moscow Conclude with Over 300,000 Attendees
The UAE Cultural Days event in Moscow, part of the "Summer in Moscow" project, successfully concluded at Manezh Square, attracting over 300,000 visitors during its five-day run. The event, designed to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the UAE, featured a diverse program that captivated both locals and tourists.
The festivities kicked off with an official opening ceremony, followed by an Emirati wedding show that highlighted traditional wedding customs passed down through generations. The bride, adorned in a traditional dress, was escorted to the groom's house where various national rituals, including the 'Ayala' dance, were performed. This dance involves participants lining up in two rows and dancing and singing to the rhythm of tambourines and drums.
Attendees enjoyed performances by Al Otaiba and Al Mazyoud bands, a fashion show set to Emirati music, and a variety of traditional UAE dishes. The event also featured crafts displays, a photo exhibition showcasing the stunning landscapes of the UAE, and opportunities to get temporary henna tattoos.
The festival drew significant crowds, with over 40,000 people attending on the first evening alone. The cultural exchange is part of a broader series of events under the strategic dialogue between Russia and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States (GCC), aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.
Tourism between the UAE and Russia is thriving, with UAE travelers enjoying visa-free entry to Russia. In 2023, 42.2 thousand UAE tourists visited Moscow, supported by 150 weekly flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Moscow remains a key destination for international tourists, welcoming 2.3 million visitors in 2023 from countries such as China, India, the CIS, and the Middle East. The city actively participates in international exhibitions and organizes events to enhance global ties, including a business mission to the UAE in February and participation in the ATM exhibition in Dubai in May.
