Morocco in Abu Dhabi concludes with a record attendance of over 23,000 visitors

Abu Dhabi: “Morocco in Abu Dhabi 2019”, hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from April 17^th to 30^th, has concluded its fourth edition, having successfully attracted over 23,000 visitors.

The event showcased a variety of activities and galleries that reflected the many aspects of Morocco’s rich cultural heritage in architecture, music, art, fashion and cuisine, in addition to illustrating the nation’s customs, traditions, and historical progression in a way that highlighted the diversity between the many differing cultures within Morocco.

Matar Suhail Al Yabhouni, Federal National Council Member and Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the event, praised the event, saying, “I am glad that ‘Morocco in Abu Dhabi’ has been a testament of success for the fourth consecutive year, highlighting the strong and historic ties between the UAE and the Kingdom of Morocco, offering visitors a great opportunity to explore that country’s rich culture and eclectic traits, as well as enjoying unique Moroccan hospitality.” He added that the success of the event serves as a message for future generations, enhancing the economic, scientific, touristic and cultural relationship between the fraternal nations.

The 2019 edition celebrated Moroccan women and their unique characteristics of generosity, dedication, intuition, vision and creativity in their role in sustaining social and economic development and their great contributions throughout the history of the Kingdom.

The event offered visitors a range of programmes celebrating the variety of Moroccan music, such as traditional, spiritual, and rural folkloric songs, as well as exhibiting traditional industries utilising the skilled genius and gifted talents of Moroccan craftsmen across many handicrafts representing ancient, modern and Arabic Islamic legacy.

Thanking the event’s Higher Organising Committee for the neat organisation and all those who had contributed to the success of the fourth edition of the event, Adel Al Faqir, Director of the National Office of Tourism, commented “Morocco in Abu Dhabi” underscores the strong ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the UAE, the two countries’’ leaderships and their people, based on long-standing historical foundations to set an example in the civilized and cultural integration between both countries.

400 people attended an exclusive Moroccan fashion show, where the audience was captivated by the elegant designs and unique styles of the kaftan. Models showcased the glamorous designs woven with patterns that highlighted the rich and deep history of Morocco. Infused with elements of creativity and innovation, the kaftans delighted the audience with their sophistication.

This year’s edition also highlighted Morocco’s traditional Islamic architecture, characterized by a refined and authentic identity unparalleled in other Arab countries, featuring calligraphy, copper-work, unique tiles and engravings

Gourmet aficionados were able to indulge in a sophisticated blend of flavours and culinary creations presented by renowned Moroccan chefs. With a series of live cooking demonstrations, they showcased a mix of authentic and modern recipes such as couscous, pastilla, tajine, tanjia, kaab al ghazal and chebakia.

The Museum of Moroccan Heritage was the biggest attraction at “Morocco in Abu Dhabi 2019”, entertaining visitors with a large collection of 300 historical pieces, many of which were being exhibited for the first time outside the Kingdom, including exclusive Islamic manuscripts, Islamic coins, oil lanterns, Islamic ceramic-ware utensils, jewelry, horse riding tools as well as an overview of Moroccan fine arts reflecting that country’s historical civilizations across the generations.

Another intriguing aspect of the Moroccan event was the Design and Youth Gallery, inspired by modern Moroccan design and handcrafts, and serving as a place of artistic expression for the next generation. It embraced a variety of approaches and artistic visions, taking visitors on a unique journey.

Attended by a specially invited VIP audience of 300, “Morocco in Abu Dhabi” presented the famous play, “Lala Mannana’s Daughters”, in which our titular heroines took spectators to the enchanting northern area of Morocco, with a show featuring singing, dancing and fashion.

To the delight of Abu Dhabi music fans, the event organized a two-day music concert on the 18^th and 19^th of April on A’l Bahar, Abu Dhabi Corniche. The concert featured elite Moroccan singers who highlighted a selection of their most popular songs. The concert was a resounding hit, where people attended and enjoyed a range of emotional musical performances representing the authentic blend of old and new.

“Morocco in Abu Dhabi” included a variety of performances and activities that entertained visitors with glimpses through the ages of Moroccan history. There were musical performances that reflected various regional styles and at the end of each evening, visitors enjoyed an inspirational closing performance by Moussem of Moulay Idriss ll with the participation of the Essaoua Sufi musical band and an assembled group of artists.

In a special celebration, the closing day of “Morocco in Abu Dhabi” favoured six lucky winners who each received free tickets to enjoy a one-week stay in Morocco, courtesy of Moroccan National Tourist Office and Etihad Airways.

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© Press Release 2019