Yas Island is set to become a thriving hub of activity during the evenings of Ramadan, particularly between May 15 and 18, when Project Warehouse reinvents its Festember festival.
The pop-up fair will return to Abu Dhabi as a "celebration of contemporary culture", with art, cuisine, fashion and design all on the agenda.
This year, it will be held for the first time at du Forum, from 8pm to 2am, over the course of four evenings. "We see this pop-up event as a playground celebrating contemporary arts and culture," says Festember owner Latifa Al Hamed. "This is innovative expression that still ties back to our culture and heritage."
Four things to look forward to at this year's Festember event:
Art
Various exhibitions and installations created by international and regional artists will explore a number of themes through creative projects at this year's event. This includes female empowerment, rural Emirati populations and historic mining communities from across the region.
One is the work of Los Angeles artist Oliver Coreaux, who will be "weaving stories to create distinct visual narratives".
He'll paint a series of tote bags and other accessories by Goyard, Celine, Hermes, Louis Vuitton and Rimowa, each showcasing a collage comprised of text, symbols and other forms. His first visit to the UAE will see him reveal a new accessory capsule collection.
Shopping
There will be plenty of opportunities to splash some cash at the event, as a range of retailers set up shop. This includes regional designers selling everything from jewellery and abayas to shoes and fragrances. Brands such as Aisha's Charms, Fabula Jewels, Mo De Sel, The Library Fragrance, Elbotik and MKS will be present.
Sheikha Mariam bint Khalifa bin Saif Al Nahyan, founder of MKS Jewellery, said: "We wanted to come out and see everyone during Ramadan this year as we have a brand-new capsule that will support charity initiatives in the UAE.
"Can't wait to see you all there."
Fashion
On top of the plethora of fashion retail options on offer, there will also be a dedicated fashion hub, called The Loft, which will feature young, up-and-coming designers and new brands. Here, an exclusive first viewing will be hosted for event visitors. There will also be an area specially built for one-of-a-kind fashion, lifestyle, beauty and home styling items.
Food
What would a Ramadan evening event be without food? "If art is the core, comfort food is the key 'ingredient'" of Festember, adds Al Hamed. "Think paratha and chips Oman, chai halib, karak, hot dogs in pastries, ever-so-sweet desserts, but gourmet versions. The results will definitely be something to crave!"
Food stalls will include brands such as JetLag (coffee), Royce (Japanese chocolates), House of Pops (popsicles), The Cousins (dessert), Wake and Bake (doughnuts), The Yoghurt Lab (Middle Eastern food), Mango Mania (salads) and Moylos (burgers).
Entrance fees for Festember are Dh65 for adults, Dh35 for children and Dh180 for a family (two adults and two children).Visit www.festemberad.com for more information.
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