Abu Dhabi may not be the first location that comes to mind when you think of festivals but this year it's hosting a major, electronic music festival with big-name international DJs heading the bill.
Fyre Festival and its viral images of sad little cheese sandwiches may have tainted people's ideas of luxury music festivals forever but a new festival in Abu Dhabi will shift preconceptions. For a start, this festival has been meticulously organised and, along with great music, food and pool parties, guests will be treated to all sorts of little luxuries against a backdrop of white-sand beaches.
NuraiFest takes place on 22 and 23 November, 2019 in the private resort of Zaya Nurai Island with world-renowned DJs such as Audiofly, Steve Lawler, Tiga, wAFF, M.A.N.D.Y, Satori live and Serge Devant performing on both days. Nurai Island is easy to reach from the mainland, about a short 15-minute boat ride, and offers 52 private villas, an oceanside spa, five fine and casual dining experiences, and a beach club.
"A lot of people see Dubai as a great party place, but Abu Dhabi remains more conservative in their minds. Together with the Department of Culture and Tourism we are trying to break this perception by launching the first for the region private island music festival," says NuraiFest co-founder Ayan Alieva.
"From the very first moment as you step on a boat until you are back on mainland you feel the spirit of nature, island life and beautiful beaches accompanied by the beats of world-renowned DJs. There is also an opportunity to experience the luxury of Zaya Nurai Island all-villa resort. The resort is top luxury and only has private villas each granting access to the beach and their own private pool. Along with this comes seven-star service."
Guests have a choice to either book a one-day, two-day or a VIP backstage pass. Tickets are available on Platinumlist and prices start from €122 per day. VIP packages include a weekend stay in a private villa on the island. Guests can splash out on the VIP package or stay at hotels on the mainland or nearby Saadivat by taking advantage of special accommodation offers here. Shuttle boats will take guests from the welcome centre to the island and back throughout the festival.
