The Liwa International Festival is a major annual winter event that takes place every year in the Al Dhafra desert region of the UAE. It combines fast-paced motorsports, cultural traditions, fun activities for families, and exciting desert experiences, all set against the stunning view of the sand dunes. Started in 2001, the 23 days running festival has grown into a major event over the years, becoming one of the top winter festivals offering heritage and adventure, including dune driving, drift contests, traditional markets and desert camping.
When and Where the Liwa International Festival 2025-2026 happens
The Liwa International Festival in Abu Dhabi is the ideal winter event to visit from December 12, 2025, to January 3, 2026. Held at Tal Moreeb, the festival offers a combination of culture and adventure for those who prefer a unique desert experience over traditional New Year festivities.
This year, Dubai is organising an 8-day New Year celebration at Burj Khalifa with Red Chillies entertainment offering visitors plenty of chances to experience amazing shows and stunning fireworks and unforgettable entertainment with the iconic star Shah Rukh Khan.
What’s Happening: Events, Attractions and Activities
From motorsport fans to families to cultural lovers, the Liwa International Festival offers something for every kind of visitor.
Motorsports and Adventure
- Speed races, drift shows, and dune driving challenges.
- Car stunts, buggy challenges, UTV events, and even sand wrestling competitions.
- The Tal Moreeb Car Championship will conclude the festival from 31 Dec 2025 to 3 Jan 2026.
Entertainment, Culture and Family Fun
- Nightly fireworks, drone and dune-projection light shows, and hot air balloon rides on weekends.
- Carnival rides, a petting zoo, pony rides, ziplines (kid-friendly), water karting, even mini tank paintball and escape rooms.
- Live music, cultural performance heritage crafts, and traditional Emirati food stalls are all inside the Liwa Village.
Cultural Heritage and Shopping
- Liwa Village’s souk, artisans, crafts, souvenirs, creative workshops, pop-up cafes, and restaurants under the desert sky.
- Cultural tours and heritage-themed shows interspersed with modern desert entertainment.
How to Attend and What to Know
Entry – General admission to the festival ground is free. Some premium events (races, VIP areas, special shows) may require paid tickets, for booking details, visit the official festival website.
Registration – required if you want to participate in Camping, commercial services and racing competitions – opens in November 2025.
What to bring – Sunscreen, hats, comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and a jacket for cooler nights. For those staying overnight, camping gear, powerbanks, flashlights and possibly cash (some vendors may not accept cards)
Travel & Access – Liwa is reachable by paved roads from major cities. Most visitors drive. Visitors need 4×4 if plan to drive into the dunes or off-road areas.
Why is the Liwa International Festival 2025-2026 Edition Special?
- The festival is clearly a major event of the winter season in the region this year, with the official endorsement of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
- The event combines cultural heritage and classic Emirati traditions with modern attractions such as air shows, drone displays, concerts and dune-sport events.
- Offering a range of activities for families, thrill seekers and culture lovers, Liwa Village features several themed zones, including Wanasa, Souk and Adrenaline.
Perfect for these Visitors
- If you’re someone who enjoys adventure and is passionate about motorsports. This Liwa Festival is for you; you can experience thrilling activities like dune bashing, drift racing, stunts, car races, and high-energy desert activities.
- The event is not just for adventure seekers but also an amazing destination for families and groups to experience plenty of fun rides for kids, lively entertainment zones, cultural activities and a relaxing way to enjoy a desert landscape.
- Culture and heritage lovers can enjoy Emirati tradition and savour local cuisines.
- Travellers and chill seekers can enjoy an unforgettable winter holiday in the desert.
Also Read: 4-Day Eid Al Eitehad Celebration
