- Unlimited BBQ feasts, including Texas brisket and Mexican street food.
- Authentic Emirati experiences like falconry, Gahwa, and fire-cooked Harees.
- Live entertainment, kite flying, and access to Al Ain Zoo.
- Exclusive camping options at Jebel Hafit and partner hotel discounts.
If you’re a food lover with a taste for adventure, mark your calendar! The Meats & Mountains food festival is returning to Jebel Hafit Desert Park, transforming the UAE’s desert into an epicurean escape on 23rd November and 21st December. Imagine indulging in unlimited BBQ, immersing yourself in Emirati traditions, and exploring cultural activities in an enchanting desert setting, all curated by the culinary experts at Cucina del Sul.
This year’s festival is more than a tasting event; it’s an interactive culinary experience designed to ignite the senses and bring people together over a shared love of food and culture. For AED 378 (adults) and AED 94 (children), guests can feast on a spread of specialties from local favorites, like BBQ Sultan’s Texas-style smoked brisket and Panamericana’s authentic Mexican street fare. There’s also a sweet treat for dessert lovers: Omar Odali’s famous Nabulsi Knafeh, cooked over coals in a traditional outdoor setup.
But Meats & Mountains is as much about celebrating the UAE’s rich cultural heritage as it is about fantastic flavors. Festivalgoers can sip traditional Gahwa, enjoy guided art and archaeology hikes, marvel at live falconry demonstrations, and taste fire-cooked Harees. Emirati treats like Lugaimat and Karak tea will be available, adding authentic touches to this unique desert experience. Plus, with access to bonfires, live entertainment, kite flying, and even Al Ain Zoo vouchers, there’s something for everyone in the family.
For those wanting to extend their adventure, the festival offers exclusive options for camping and glamping in Jebel Hafit Desert Park, along with discounted stays at nearby Al Ain partner hotels—ideal for a getaway under the stars.
This year, Meats & Mountains aims to bring people together over food, culture, and community in an unforgettable desert setting. As Ola, co-founder of Cucina del Sul, explains, “Meats & Mountains is more than a festival—it’s a celebration of food, culture, and community. We invite food enthusiasts to escape the bustle of city life and embrace the beauty of desert living while connecting with kindred spirits over incredible flavors.”
Ready to make memories in the mountains? Click here to purchase tickets and here to book your stay with Al Ain Hotels. Join in the heart of the UAE’s desert for an experience that blends adventure, culture, and cuisine like never before!