It's going to be 10 days of fun as UrbaNation, an event celebrating street culture, kicks off in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Taking place from Thursday, November 14 until Saturday, November 23, the action-packed event will bring together the region's creative minds in fields such as music, art, motorsport, food, art and more at the emirate's Formal Park on the Corniche.
UrbaNation is the latest event to be launched by Abu Dhabi Moments, an initiative by the Department of Community Development and a part of the Abu Dhabi Accelerated Development Programme Ghadan 21, which aims to promote inclusion and build a strong sense of community. It plans to do this through a series of activities for residents living across the five districts of the capital. Some of the events it has held in the past are: Al Reem Festival in Reem Central Park in October, the Diwali Night Market in Capital Park and a pop-up drive-in cinema experience on Hudayriyat Island earlier this month.
Those planning to visit UrbaNation will find artists and musicians showcasing their talent, plus a number of workshops, activities and exhibitions.
Here’s a sample of what to expect:
Motoring
Motorsport fans will find an array of activities including a "garage pit" hosting car-modification workshops where they can learn about engine tuning, sound-system tuning and car wrapping. There’s also going to be an on-site "race room" with Formula One car-simulator experiences for those with a need for speed.
Street art
With UrbaNation celebrating street culture, street art takes precedence. Art enthusiasts can expect a series of graffiti workshops and interactive doodles that will be taking place on a daily basis, as well as a Created Together mural, an on-site artwork everyone is invited to colour in. Meanwhile, children can enjoy arts and crafts stations, face painting and more.
Music
The event will see local talent take to the stage each evening. Some performers include Dubai-based funk jam band Carl and The Reda Mafia and Echo Vessel, a drum loop duo that creates live electronic music from scratch – no pre-recorded tracks.
Food
Of course, no festival is complete without delicious bites and UrbaNation aims to satisfy all foodies. Six food trucks will put up live cooking stations offering mini burgers, pizzas, waffles and fusion Arabic dishes.
UrbaNation from Thursday, November 14 until Saturday, November 23, from 4pm to 11pm; Formal Park, Corniche, Abu Dhabi; free entry
