ABU DHABI: More than 266,000 visitors gathered for a season of enriching family moments, live entertainment and creative activations at the biggest edition of Mother of the Nation (MOTN) Festival, the region’s ultimate entertainment event.
The event witnessed 493 performances by world-class artists, an array of international carnival thrills, immersive art experiences, engaging activities for the little ones, and more than 62 global and local food concepts.
The grand finale of the festival unfolded in a New Year’s Eve event that illuminated the night sky along the Abu Dhabi Corniche.
The MOTN Festival at Abu Dhabi’s Corniche featured a power-packed line-up of international and regional artists including Nancy Ajram, Dubai-based DJ Aseel, Ramy Sabry, Black Eyed Peas, Rasha Rizk, Cairokee and El Far3i. On New Year’s Eve, superstars Tamer Hosny and Saif Nabeel delivered an unforgettable show that resonated with music lovers of all ages.
In addition to spectacular live performances, the festival brought visit
ors newly introduced culinary and shopping concepts from around the world. From the joy of carnival rides to interactive physical and augmented reality games, the Corniche transformed into the ultimate entertainment destination for families.
Also unveiled at MOTN this year was the Abu Dhabi edition of the world-renowned board game, Monopoly. Visitors were invited to discover, buy and trade the city’s most beloved landmarks in a life-sized version. Bringing visitors a total of 273 hours of continuous entertainment spread across 34 days, the festival featured 51 never-seen-before activations and installations from around the globe.
More than 62 local and international FB outlets and food vendors took foodies on a gastronomic journey. The festival hosted street food and dessert concepts, such as UK-based burger joint Mother Flipper, authentic pizzeria Bad Boys Pizza Society, award-winning bakery CrossTown, and candy floss ice cream connoisseurs, Milk Train.
The festival also brought visitors Bo-Tik, a curated
retail space home to over 40 local and regional brands. From elegant couture to trendy accessories, visitors had the opportunity to explore a diverse range of fashion offerings by emerging designers.
Giving families the opportunity to create cherished memories, the seventh edition of MOTN culminated with the best view of Abu Dhabi’s grand New Year’s Eve fireworks display on the Corniche.
Visitors to the Al Dhafra and Al Ain editions were treated to an array of exciting live performances, delightful culinary experiences and immersive art installations, all curated to offer a diverse and engaging experience for all ages.
Families had the opportunity to enjoy a carnival bonanza with thrilling games, and activities tailored for little ones. With endless entertainment and prizes, children could explore an imaginative world, providing unlimited excitement for every adventurer. The FB zone brought foodies from across the country to sample a range of local and regional delicacies. From homegrown delights to intern
ational flavours with a modern twist, visitors took a gastronomic adventure around the world.
Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and conceptualised and produced by Brag, the largest edition of the festival yet invited visitors back to the Abu Dhabi Corniche from 8th December to 31st December.
MOTN also opened its doors for the first time this year in Al Dhafra from 22nd to 26th November and in Al Ain from 29th November to 3rd December.
The festival is set to return in 2024, with more immersive experiences, delectable FB offerings and live entertainment in store for visitors of all ages.
Source: Emirates News Agency
