5th edition Al Hilal Auto Fest 2013 kicks off

Organized by Al Hilal bank, a progressive Islamic bank, the show was inaugurated on Thursday, March 14, 2013 by Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, chairman of Alain club, and runs until March 17, 2013 at the Beach Park at the Corniche Road next to the Hilton Hotel in Abu Dhabi.

The annual Al Hilal Auto Festival in Abu Dhabi is regarded as one of the UAE's top auto shows and inspired Dubai's own yearly edition which was launched in 2012. This year's festival features a new format headed by a Fashion Car Show of over 280 car models. Harley Davidson motorcycles and yachts are also on display.

To show its commitment to a family-friendly, carnival atmosphere event, Al Hilal Bank has set up a 'Hala & Nassour' kids' village which includes values-forming activities that teach children to save money and be responsible. An entertaining Art & Circus workshop is offered by the village as well. Other fun elements of the festival include drum and 'Laser Man' shows, a 'Human Slinky,' a 'Robot Show' and a safe 'Man-Fire' show that does not use pyrotechnics.

The Al Hilal Auto Festival has also evolved into a socially-relevant show. This is reflected by current elements such as 10 kiosks for government entities that include Etisalat, du, the Khalifa Fund and the Make a Wish Foundation, among many other entities; a 'green zone' featuring Al Hilal Bank's eGrab emissionless mobile bank, the Abu Dhabi Environment Authority and eco-awareness presentations; and 20 kiosks offering native foods and items prepared by 20 Emirati women.
Members of the UAE National Football Team also passed by to add glitter and excitement and represent the modern feel of Abu Dhabi's special events.

"The fifth Al Hilal Auto Festival celebrates the event's growth from a simple auto show into one of the country's most awaited entertainment and social responsibility events. We have a wide range of activities and exhibitions catering to all sectors of society, and of course we once again present one of the country's best auto financing deals. We would like to thank our government and private sector partners who have helped us prepare an exceptional and unforgettable festival this year," said Mohammed Jamil Berro, CEO of Al Hilal Bank.

Al Hilal Bank expects its ongoing auto festival to surpass the 40,000 visitor attendance it logged in 2012. The public is invited to attend the daily activities which run from 4pm to 12 pm.