Picture this: A crisp desert breeze, the mouthwatering aroma of smoky barbecue filling the air, and the golden glow of Jebel Hafit as your backdrop. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, pinch yourself because it’s real! Meats & Mountains, Cucina Del Sul’s legendary desert food festival, is making a grand return to Al Ain on February 22nd—and trust us, you don’t want to miss it.
BBQ Lovers, Assemble!
Back by overwhelming demand (seriously, people were not ready to let this one go), the festival’s iconic live cooking BBQ stations are back in action! We’re talking fall-off-the-bone Texas Smokehouse-style brisket, colossal ribeye steaks dangling tantalizingly over the flames, and juicy smashed burgers that will ruin you for all other burgers. And because no good feast is complete without a little extra flair, there’s also a kaak station and live-on-charcoal Nabusli knefeh that will make your taste buds break into spontaneous applause.
Hungry yet? Thought so. But wait, there’s more!
A Cultural Feast, Too
Food is more than just eating—it’s an experience. And Meats & Mountains isn’t just serving up top-tier meats; it’s dishing out authentic Emirati hospitality, too. Get ready to sample fire-cooked Harees, a rich and hearty local delicacy, alongside classic Emirati treats like sweet, golden Lugaimat and perfectly spiced Karak tea.
Because nothing pairs better with BBQ than a little cultural immersion, right?
More Than Just Food (But Also, A Lot of Food)
Not only does this festival have enough grilled goodness to keep you in a blissful food coma, but it also packs in a ton of fun for the whole family. Think kite flying against the vast desert sky, roasting marshmallows by a roaring bonfire, and soaking in the soulful tunes of talented homegrown musicians. If that doesn’t sound like an elite weekend plan, we don’t know what does.
Stay Under the Stars (Or in a Hotel—Your Call!)
Want to take the adventure up a notch? Extend your stay with exclusive accommodation offers from Jebel Hafit Desert Park. Whether you’re down for a full off-the-grid camping experience, glamping with a touch of luxury, or simply kicking back at select Al Ain hotels like Ayla Bawadi Hotel and Ayla Grand Hotel, there’s an option for every kind of festival-goer.
The Important Stuff: Tickets & Pricing
A ticket to this all-you-can-eat BBQ paradise will set you back AED 378 per adult and AED 94 for kids aged 5 to 12. That’s unlimited BBQ, live entertainment, and an unforgettable desert experience all rolled into one. Worth it? Absolutely.
Your Invitation to Escape
Meats & Mountains isn’t just another festival—it’s a full-on celebration of food, culture, and community. It’s your excuse to escape the daily grind, savor incredible flavors, and reconnect with life’s simple joys.
So, gather your foodie crew, bring your appetite, and get ready for an epic desert feast that’ll have you counting down the days until next year.
