Liwa International Festival

Liwa International Festival is one of Abu Dhabi’s most popular annual desert events, combining motorsports, Emirati heritage, cultural experiences, entertainment, and family activities in the stunning landscape of the Al Dhafra Region.

Held around Tal Moreeb, one of the UAE’s most famous desert landmarks, the festival offers visitors a unique experience where adventure, traditional culture, and modern entertainment come together. The event attracts desert enthusiasts, motorsport fans, families, and international visitors looking to experience the UAE’s heritage and outdoor lifestyle.

The upcoming Liwa International Festival 2026 (Liwa 2026) will take place from 11 December 2026 to 2 January 2027 in Liwa, Al Dhafra Region, Abu Dhabi. The festival continues to showcase the region as a major winter tourism destination through adventure activities, cultural experiences, and entertainment programmes.

For tourists visiting Abu Dhabi, Liwa International Festival provides an opportunity to explore the UAE’s desert traditions while combining the experience with Abu Dhabi Sightseeing Tour and UAE tours.

Event Details

Event Highlights

Liwa International Festival offers a wide range of experiences that celebrate UAE culture, desert adventure, and entertainment.

Visitors can enjoy:

• Tal Moreeb motorsport competitions
• Dune driving challenges and desert racing
• Drift and speed competitions
• Falconry and traditional competitions
• Emirati heritage experiences
• Cultural performances and activities
• Liwa Village with food, crafts, and family entertainment
• Live music and entertainment programmes
• Desert activities and outdoor experiences

The festival combines traditional UAE heritage with modern adventure experiences, making it suitable for different types of visitors.

Visitor Information

Liwa International Festival takes place in the Liwa area of Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra Region, surrounded by the impressive desert landscape of Tal Moreeb.

Visitors can experience the festival through different zones, including cultural areas, entertainment spaces, motorsport activities, food experiences, and family attractions.

Since the festival programme changes each year, visitors should check the latest official updates before planning their visit.

Why Visit Liwa International Festival?

Liwa International Festival offers visitors a chance to experience a different side of the UAE beyond modern city attractions.

The event is ideal for:

• Travellers interested in UAE heritage and traditions
• Adventure seekers who enjoy desert experiences
• Motorsport enthusiasts
• Families looking for unique outdoor activities
• International visitors wanting an authentic UAE experience

The festival allows visitors to experience the beauty of the Liwa desert while discovering Emirati culture and entertainment.

Plan Your Liwa International Festival Visit With Captain Dunes

Visitors travelling to Abu Dhabi for Liwa International Festival can enhance their UAE journey with Captain Dunes experiences.

Explore more of the UAE with:

• Abu Dhabi City Tours to discover iconic landmarks
• Desert Safari Experiences for Arabian desert adventures
• Dubai City Tours to explore famous attractions
• UAE Sightseeing Tours to experience more destinations

Combining your Liwa International Festival visit with Captain Dunes tours allows travellers to enjoy both UAE heritage experiences and the country’s modern attractions.