The second World Cultural Festival in Hanoi, jointly organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Hanoi People's Committee, took place from October 1-4, 2026, at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. At the festival's cultural exchange space, the UAE Embassy introduced the public to various distinctive aspects of its country through images, books, films, art and cuisine. The activities were arranged to allow visitors to observe, directly experience and learn more about the stories behind each aspect of UAE culture.

UAE cultural booth. (Photo: UAE Embassy in Viet Nam)

At the UAE cultural booth, visitors could watch videos introducing tourist destinations and traditional heritage sites, explore books on heritage, and experience the art of henna painting. From landscapes and architecture to traditions preserved in contemporary life, the displays offered visitors an insight into different aspects of UAE culture. Meanwhile, the henna experience provided a more intimate way to engage with the culture, allowing visitors to learn about the patterns and take home a small memento from their cultural exploration.

The culinary booth continued this journey through traditional UAE dishes. By tasting and learning about the food, visitors had another opportunity to experience aspects of everyday life, hospitality customs and the culture of sharing among the UAE people.

Henna painting experience. (Photo: UAE Embassy in Viet Nam)

As part of the festival, the Embassy also screened a film introducing the UAE's country, people and culture. Together with the images displayed at the exhibition, the film helped viewers gain a clearer picture of a country that values its heritage while continuing to develop and innovate.

One highlight of the program was a traditional Al Ayala folk dance performed by Vietnamese students. With its distinctive rhythm and communal formation, Al Ayala reflects the spirit of unity and togetherness in UAE culture. The Vietnamese students' initiative in learning and performing this traditional dance not only contributed to introducing a distinctive aspect of UAE culture in Hanoi, but also demonstrated the active role of young people in promoting cultural exchange and enhancing mutual understanding between Viet Nam and the UAE.

Visitors explore UAE cuisine. (Photo: UAE Embassy in Viet Nam)

Eisa Alhammadi, Chargé d'Affaires of the UAE Embassy, shared: “We hope visitors will not only see images of the UAE, but also have the opportunity to experience, ask questions and engage with UAE culture in their own way. We particularly value the participation of Vietnamese students in the Al Ayala performance. When young people take the time to learn about and perform a tradition from another country, it is a very meaningful form of cultural exchange. We hope that the experiences at the festival will continue to inspire curiosity, understanding and a sense of connection between the peoples of the UAE and Viet Nam.”

After four days, the UAE's presence at the festival added another distinctive color to the international cultural space at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. From a dance and a dish to conversations at the booth, these direct encounters brought stories about the UAE and its people closer to Vietnamese audiences as well as international friends.

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