Dubai announces third edition of Hatta Farming Festival

HATTA, DUBAI – Under the Dubai Farms program, Dubai Municipality has officially launched the third edition of the Hatta Farming Festival. Running until February 1, 2026, at the scenic Hatta Leem Lake, the event marks a significant expansion in the UAE’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and rural development.

The festival was inaugurated as part of the broader Dubai Farms initiative, championed by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.

A Hub for Innovation and Emirati Agriculture

This year’s edition is the largest to date, serving as a strategic pillar of the #DubaiDestinations winter campaign. The festival isn’t just a market; it is an integrated platform where Emirati farmers, estate owners, and agricultural tech companies converge to showcase the future of local food production.

Key Highlights of the 2026 Festival:

• Expanded Participation: A record number of specialized farms and local agricultural companies.

• Inclusion Matters: For the first time, the festival features dedicated workshops and displays to empower People of Determination.

• Economic Support: Dubai Municipality has announced a AED 3.7 million support package for Hatta farmers.

• Livestock Showcase: A beauty and quality contest for livestock, highlighting the region’s heritage.

Strategic Investment in Local Food Security

His Excellency Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, emphasized that the festival is a cornerstone of Dubai’s food security strategy.

“The Hatta Farming Festival provides an integrated environment that enables access to organized markets, training, and advisory services in a single location,” said H.E. Bin Ghalita. “This enhances the efficiency of Emirati farmers and directly strengthens Dubai’s food security ecosystem.”

To support this vision, the Municipality has distributed over 24,000 bags of organic fertilizers and 5,000 bags of seeds, alongside providing professional pest control and agricultural extension services to ensure sustainable yields.

A Premier Agri-Tourism Destination

Located at the heart of Hatta Leem Lake, the festival offers a unique blend of heritage and modern tourism. It functions as a living laboratory for sustainable rural development, attracting both residents and tourists.

Why Visit the Hatta Farming Festival?

• Free Public Access: Entry is free for all visitors.

• Fresh Local Produce: Buy directly from Hatta’s farmers, supporting the farm-to-table movement.

• Family Activities: Interactive workshops, competitions, and prizes designed for all ages.

• Technical Services: On-site platforms for the Dubai Central Laboratory and veterinary experts offer a glimpse into the science behind UAE farming.

The festival is a win-win for the local economy. Dubai Municipality has confirmed that Hatta residents can participate for free, with all permit fees for temporary food-related activities waived. This initiative encourages young Emirati entrepreneurs to launch and scale their agricultural projects within the emirate.

By merging environmental protection with community engagement, the Hatta Farming Festival continues to position Dubai as a global leader in eco-tourism and sustainable green economies.