Abu Dhabi’s luxury private resort Zaya Nurai Island, from the 22nd to 24th November 2019, was the site for the first ever NuraiFest. 

This high life festival offers something for everyone, no matter what time of the day; from pool parties in different corners of the island to sunset beach parties, all culminating with the famous VIP Estate party and world renowned DJs such as Audiofly, Steve Lawler, Tiga, wAFF, M.A.N.D.Y, Satori live and Serge Devant performing on both days. 

Here are five things we learned. 

The people are super friendly

The staff at NuraiFest couldn’t do enough to help you, whether those at the festival, serving at the bar, transporting you from the airport or working in your hotel. They are smiley, welcoming, and happy to chat if you are, as well as give you lots of tips and insider info on where to head away from the festival if you so wish.Β 

Abu Dhabi is beautiful

This might be obvious but not, is it true. The white sand beaches are beyond perfect, the green blue sea is straight from a holiday advert, the sun is always beaming down, and when it sinks into the sea, the sky turn all shades of red and orange that it truly takes your breath away.Β 

Locals love dance music

Don’t let anyone tell you there is no scene for good music in this region. Plenty of locals packed out the stages and were happy to get down and go long to some seriously slick tech and house sounds. Plenty of them were expats who will know the sounds from home, but plenty were UAE locals, which was great to see. Β 

It’s worth shedding out for the VIP

At many festivals, VIP access means different toilets and maybe a different view, but here the VIP treatment really is a taste of the highlife. VIP packages including a weekend stay in your own private villa with an infinity pool are available, with your own table on the dance floor with waiter service, private cabanas and teepees.Β plus much much more, the possibilities are endless.

NuraiFest is here to stay

This crew really did things right in year one. The sound systems were spot on, the stage designs were lush, the production was no expenses spared. It was well organised, you were picked up in style and transferred to the island by boat and there were plenty of tasty food and drinks options that knock European options into the ground. 

Keep your eye out for their next editions in 2020 here – https://www.nuraifest.com/