A new story up north
If you needed one reason to plan a weekend trip north this January, let it be this: The Hidden Table, a new, intimate dining experience launching as part of the opening weekend of Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival. Tucked inside the atmospheric lanes of Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, it’s where art, culture and food collide — and it’s set to be one of the most talked-about moments of the festival.
Running from 16 January to 8 February, Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 unfolds around the theme Civilizations, but it’s during the first weekend that this carefully curated culinary experience makes its debut.
Inside The Hidden Table
New for 2026, The Hidden Table reframes dining as cultural storytelling. Hosted at Bayt 7, the experience launches with Chama, an open-fire concept led by Chef Tiago Pazzini. There’s no fixed menu here. Instead, each evening responds to seasonality, instinct and elemental cooking — making every seat at the table feel like a once-only encounter.
Set against stone walls and open skies, the experience leans into intimacy and connection, with limited seating that encourages guests to slow down, engage and share. It’s as much about presence as it is about flavour — a refined yet raw counterpoint to the festival’s artistic programme, and a standout reason to book early.
Art, Music and Performances After Dark
Beyond the table, the opening weekend offers plenty to explore. Friday night sets a soulful tone with Emirati vocalist AlMaydee, whose blend of jazz, blues and funk fills The Fort with atmosphere.
On Saturday, the programme shifts gears with James SCARR’s expressive mime performance, Alana Hicks’ immersive storytelling and live art piece Step into Civilisation, and a return by crowd favourite Luiza. The energy lifts further with AFCENT Band, bringing pop, rock and jazz into the village streets. There’s also a free film screening at Al Hamra Mall, rounding out the evening with cinema.
Tours, Workshops and Hands-On Culture
Those keen to dig deeper can join guided heritage tours of the UAE’s last remaining intact pearling village, alongside curated art tours unpacking how artists interpret the theme Civilizations across the site.
Workshops and masterclasses run throughout the weekend, spanning Arabic calligraphy, analog photography, light painting, enamelling, fabric art and traditional agriculture — turning the village into a living classroom that bridges past and present.
Why It’s Worth the Drive
Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 isn’t just another arts festival — it’s a slow, considered cultural experience set within one of the UAE’s most evocative heritage sites. And with The Hidden Table leading the opening weekend, it offers a rare chance to experience cuisine as performance, ritual and conversation.
Come for the feast, stay for the art — and don’t be surprised if you leave planning a second visit.
Image credit: Supplied
Curious, expressive, and always chasing new ideas, Zainab sees creativity as a way of life. She thrives on discovering new perspectives, connecting with people, and turning inspiration into something tangible. Her work and her world reflect a balance of intuition, imagination, and authenticity.
Contact me: zainab@nommemag.com
