The countdown is on for the third annual Abu Dhabi Science Festival.
The 10-day, award-winning celebration of science, technology and innovation returns on November 14 and promises displays, demonstrations and hands-on workshops designed to ignite a passion for science in the nation’s youth.
The Abu Dhabi Technology Development Committee, organiser of the festival, announced new local partnerships that will deliver mind-blowing experiences for festival participants.
“We’re really excited to have this opportunity to pass the wonders of science to our young visitors and provide such strong representations of local successes,” said Neama Al Marshoudi, the committee’s manager of content, science and technology promotion.
Newcomers to the festival include the National Electronic Security Authority, Dolphin Energy, Tourism and Cultural Authority, Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation and the Imperial College London Diabetes Centre.
Some new exhibits include Codecrackers, in which young cyber detectives will hunt through virtual data to track down malicious hackers. The activity is meant to teach children about the importance of safeguarding their identities online.
An interactive workshop, The Secret Life of Coral, will introduce weird and wonderful creatures that live on coral reefs to aspiring marine biologists aged from 5 to 8.
The Animal Agents workshop aims to promote conservation among children aged 5 to 8 by highlighting successful projects that protect indigenous animals such as the camel spider, the oryx and sea turtles.
Physics and engineering come together in Power it Up, a workshop geared to youngsters aged 9 to 11 that demonstrates how nuclear energy can light up our world. Participants learn the physics behind nuclear fission as they work together to produce enough energy to power a model street.
A giant buzzing game of Operation at the Energize interactive workshop will teach the importance of keeping our bodies in peak physical condition.
The festival will be held at Abu Dhabi’s du Forum on Yas Island and on the Corniche, East Plaza. Events at the Corniche are free, while entry to du Forum costs Dh10 for children aged 5 to 15 and Dh5 for adults. Children under 5 go free.
The festival will also have a presence in Al Ain, Fujairah, Al Gharbia, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit abudhabisciencefestival.ae.
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