The Liwa International Festival, known as “The Desert’s Grand Stage,” returns this winter with 23 days of culture, motorsports, and family fun in Al Dhafra’s dunes. Held from mid-December to January at Tal Moreeb, the UAE’s tallest dune, it’s a highlight of the winter season. Since 2001, the festival has drawn visitors with its mix of heritage events, desert sports, and vibrant community experiences.
This year’s Liwa International Festival will feature an exciting mix of attractions, including aerobatic air shows, dazzling fireworks, drone and dune light displays, hot air balloons, and a giant Ferris wheel. Visitors can look forward to thrilling races and dune sports, while families enjoy carnival rides, traditional markets, and live concerts. For overnight stays, glamping tents and open camping under the stars are available.
Liwa International Festival 2025–26: Key Details
Dates & Location: December 12, 2025 – January 3, 2026, at the base of Tal Moreeb in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region.
Entry: General admission is free; some VIP zones and competitions may have separate fees via the LSC app.
Opening: Aerobatic show by Forsan Al Emarat followed by fireworks.
Visuals: Nightly Dune Projection & Drone Shows; weekend Hot Air Balloon rides.
Fireworks: During opening, weekends, New Year’s Eve, and closing.
Stay Options: Glamping tents, local stays, or personal camping/RVs.
New Year’s Eve: Tal Moreeb Car Championship, concert, and fireworks.
Family Fun: Liwa Village with rides, ziplines, zoo, markets, live shows, and a giant Ferris wheel.
Motorsports: Drift, drag, mud fest, cycling, UTV, falconry, sand wrestling & more.
Access: 3-hour drive from Abu Dhabi via E10 toward Liwa.
Info: Check Liwa Sports Club app for schedules and registration.
