Seaside star-power: Bollywood actress & model Nargis Fakhri confirmed for XYoga Dubai Festival, presented by Dubai Holding

XDubai has announced that Bollywood actress and fitness-enthusiast Nargis Fakhri is confirmed for what will be the third edition of XYoga Dubai Festival, presented by Dubai Holding. Set to return to the tranquil seaside locale of Kite Beach Feb 1- 2, 2019, the festival will feature more than 55 complimentary classes, sessions and workshops for yogis of all ages and abilities. With registration now open, over 15,000 yogis of all ages and abilities are expected to come together for an inclusive two-day programme that will include yoga classes such as Hula-hoop Yoga, Acro Yoga, Dance of Prana, Animal Flow, Tai Chi, Yoga Bil Arabi as well as a series of talks, meditations and performances. 

Adding star-power to the seaside festival, Nargis Fakhri will participate in the opening session for 2,500 people on 1 February, 8am led by popular Indian yogi and trainer-to-the-stars Deepika Mehta.  An accomplished actress and model, Nargis Fakhri has starred in Bollywood hits such as ‘Rockstar’ (2011), 'Madras Cafe’ (2013) and 'Main Tera Hero' (2014) as well as the Hollywood spy blockbuster, ‘Spy' (2015). She has graced the covers of top fashion and fitness magazines and is an active philanthropist, who is passionate about woman's empowerment and preserving wildlife and the environment.

“Yoga has been a big part of my life for over a decade now – it helps me stay centred, focused and positive throughout the day,” said Nargis Fakhri. “It is not just about flexibility and fitness but also about will-power, mental strength and finding common ground with others. As a devoted practitioner and student, I am really looking forward to learning from Deepika, who is one of the most innovative and inspirational yoga trainers. I’m also looking forward to immersing myself in the practice with yogis in Dubai.”  

“XYoga Dubai Festival, presented by Dubai Holding, has evolved over its past three editions - welcoming more people, showcasing more yoga styles, presenting more diverse rosters of international and local yogis, and staging bigger and better experiences in the festival village. This festival offers serious yogis as well as those starting out the chance to defy their limits and celebrate the spirit of balance, giving and clarity with a supportive community of yogis, and immerse themselves in two days of learning, entertainment and enjoyment,” said Mohammed Javad, General Manager of XDubai.

International and Local Yoga Stars

Along with the star-studded opening session, classes led by international yogis will include Deepika Mehta’s fusion of dance and yoga, Dance of Prana; inversion specialist Laura Sykora’s High Energy Fusion Yoga; Shiva Yoga® Power with Garth Hewitt, Getting Your Meditation Groove Back with Davidji, as well as Hip-Hop and Heart by Janet Stone.  In addition to the international contingent, the UAE’s most popular local practitioners will also lead a variety of holistic and signature sessions at the festival including Animal Yoga, Clinical Yoga, Acro Yoga, Vinyasa Flow, Yoga for Beginners, Freedom Flow, Hula-hoop Yoga, Open Heart Open Mind, Yin Yoga, Yoga Bil Arabi, Kundalini Yoga, TRX, Sri Sri Yoga and Sound Healing Meditation. Talks scheduled include discussions on Classical Feng Shui, Pranayama and nutrition. The festival’s Closing Session will also be led by popular hand-pan musician, Sherif Elmoghazy along with gong meditation leader, Zarine Dadachanji.

Family Fun

Classes designed families include Mom and Baby Yoga, Kids’ Yoga for kids aged 3-5 and 6-10, and Family and Kids Yoga. The festival will also be home to an XPark Jr area, with arts and crafts, sand play and other entertainment. With each adult registration for yoga classes, the Kids’ Area will also offer care* for children four years of age years and older for up to 1.5 hours.  Children younger than four are welcome with adult supervision.

A Holistic Festival Village

XYoga Dubai Festival, presented by Dubai Holding yoga will take place across three main stage areas - the Dubai Holding stage, which will be the venue for classes holding up to 400 attendees, as well as two side stages accommodating up to 150 yogis each. The popular Ripe Market will also pop-up at XYoga Dubai Festival, presented by Dubai Holding and will feature an array of retail activations by home-grown and international specialist yoga brands, a variety of healthy food outlets featuring nutritious and organic options, as well as artisanal products by local entrepreneurs.

Registration for the XYoga Dubai Festival, presented by Dubai Holding is now open at www.xyogadubai.com. All classes are complimentary but subject to pre-registration.  Those wishing to attend are encouraged to register as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. To view the full schedule of events, please visit: xyogadubai.com/schedule/