All About Liwa International Festival 2025-2026

The Liwa International Festival returns to the UAE from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. The event offers 23 days of cultural, sporting and entertainment activities. Planned to take place in the Al Dhafra Region, the festival is set against the backdrop of the 300-metre Tal Moreeb, the UAE’s tallest dune. This makes it a prominent winter destination in Abu Dhabi.

More About Liwa International Festival

Since its inception in 2001, the Liwa International Festival Abu Dhabi has grown into a comprehensive winter experience, combining motorsports, cultural displays, family entertainment and adventure activities. The 2025-26 edition continues this tradition with a structured lineup of events and activities. The festival will open with the Forsan Al Emarat aerobatics show, accompanied by fireworks, light displays and drone shows. 

Motorsports Activities at Liwa Festival Abu Dhabi and Other Attractions

Motorsport activities like Liwa Monster Jam trucks and desert ATV racing are crowdpullers
Desert racing Liwa Moreeb dune is a key attraction of the event

Liwa International Festival is planned with a range of activities and entertainment attractions for adrenaline junkies. Key motorsport events taking place across different types of off-road terrains at the Liwa Motorsport Festival in Abu Dhabi include: 

  • Freestyle Drift (12–13 December and 22–23 December)
  • Spartan Race Liwa (13 December)
  • Bike Drag Racing (14 December)
  • Car Stunt Championship (19–20 December and 28–29 December)
  • Extreme Mudfest (19–20 December)
  • Liwa Running Challenge (20 December)
  • Liwa Cycling Race (21 December)
  • Liwa UTV (21 December)
  • Liwa Burnout Championship (25 December)
  • Liwa Drift (26–27 December)
  • Monster Jam (26 December)
  • Tal Moreeb Running Challenge (26 December)
  • Sand Wrestling Championship (26–27 December)
  • Electronic Freestyle Championship (30 December)
  • Tal Moreeb Car Championship (31 December 2025 – 3 January 2026) 

There will also be football, padel and boxing events from 15 to 21 December 2025.

Other Entertainment Attractions for Visitors

Visitors can enjoy daily attractions such as Dune Projection Shows, drone shows, water karting and mini tank paintball. Hot air balloons operate every weekend and fireworks are scheduled for the opening, weekends, New Year’s Eve and the closing ceremony.

At the core of the festival is Liwa Village, which offers water karting, carnival rides, skill games, pony rides and two ziplines. The site also features the Classic Car Museum, Auto Zone, Horror Escape Room, Smash Room, Pony Grove and a petting zoo. 

The Souk Zone and Pop-Up Heritage shops provide local crafts and merchandise. Moreover, the Performance Stage hosts live music and cultural performances.

Food and beverage options at the Liwa cultural festival offer both Emirati and international cuisines. The festival also includes camping opportunities, catering to visitors seeking overnight stays amid the desert.

Liwa Desert Festival 2025: A Reflection of Cultural Heritage and Traditions

Liwa pigeon hunt / falconry competition showcase cultural traditions and heritage of the region

The Liwa Festival 2025 celebrates UAE heritage through events like falconry, handicrafts, Souk Liwa and pigeon shooting championships. With its unique arrangements, the festival connects visitors with the region’s culture and provides a unique blend of adventure, motorsports and entertainment in the desert setting.

FAQs

What are the dates for the Liwa International Festival 2025-26?

The Liwa International Festival Al Dhafra will take place from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026.

Where is the Liwa International Festival held?

The festival is held in the Al Dhafra Region of Abu Dhabi, centred around the Tal Moreeb dune.

Is there an entry fee for Liwa Festival 2025?

Yes, the Liwa 2025 festival offers free general entry. However, fees are applicable to access select activities and VIP areas. For detailed pricing of the festival, access the LSC mobile app (iOS | Android).

What types of motorsport events are at Liwa Festival?

Motorsport events include Freestyle Drift, Bike Drag Racing, Car Stunt Championships, Liwa Burnout Championship, Tal Moreeb Car Championship, UTV racing and more.

What family-friendly activities are available at Liwa Village?

Liwa Village offers carnival rides, water karting, pony rides, ziplines, a petting zoo and themed entertainment zones. All such activities promote the concept of the family-friendly Liwa festival in Abu Dhabi.

There you have it – a detailed account of the upcoming Liwa Festival 2025 in Abu Dhabi. Whether you are visiting by car or using the Abu Dhabi public transport network, plan beforehand. The event’s official website has more details on the activities taking place. Also, keep checking back for updates on the upcoming festival to stay informed.

Renting a car in Abu Dhabi is also a good option for those aspiring to visit the Liwa International Festival. There is a range of options available, suiting various budgets and preferences. Moreover, those looking for long-term commuting and mobility solutions can also pick among used cars for sale in Abu Dhabi, offering a wide selection of makes and models.

For more information on motorsports events and activities taking place across the region, stay connected with the UAE’s leading auto blog.

Blog image credits: liwainternationalfestival.ae



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