A UAE newspaper has said that the Mother of the Nation Festival kicks off today, bringing together a variety of activities on the Abu Dhabi Corniche, including performances, well-being talks, children’s games, art exhibits and handicrafts shops.

In an editorial today, The National said, "The festival pays homage to the guidance of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Chairwoman of the General Women's Union (GWU), Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation (FDF) and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, who in addition to her well-known humanitarian work has played a major role in maintaining a special status for women in society.

"As the Chairwoman of the GWU, Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation and President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Sheikha Fatima has supported women in their homes and in public life, and has helped shaped strategies to protect the family unit in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE.

"In the next 10 days, we will celebrate not only her remarkable efforts but also the UAE’s heritage and contemporary culture. And, of course, all family members will get an opportunity to have fun