Liwa International Festival 2025–2026

A Grand Celebration of Desert Adventure in Abu Dhabi

A Seasonal Desert Spectacle in the UAE

Set in the sweeping dunes of Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region, the Liwa International Festival is one of the UAE’s most distinctive winter attractions. Taking place from December 12, 2025, to January 3, 2026, the festival combines motorsport competitions, cultural traditions, and adventure tourism in a setting unlike any other.

This annual celebration brings together adrenaline seekers, families, travelers, and heritage enthusiasts for an event that captures the spirit of desert life. Located near the towering Moreeb Dune, often regarded as one of the tallest dunes globally, the festival merges the charm of Emirati culture with high-performance motorsport excitement.

As temperatures cool across the UAE during winter, Liwa becomes a hotspot for adventure activities, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking thrill, culture, and natural beauty all in one place.

A Deep Dive Into the Festival Experience

Heart-Pounding Motorsport Competitions

Motorsport is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the Liwa International Festival. Its most famous attraction, the Moreeb Dune Hill Climb, draws professional drivers and 4×4 enthusiasts from around the region. Watching highly modified vehicles attempt the steep ascent of Moreeb Dune is an unforgettable experience, blending technical skill with raw power.

Alongside the hill climb, the festival hosts:

4×4 Drag Races, where drivers compete head-to-head over a high-speed desert track
Motorbike and ATV Competitions that push riders to their limits
Freestyle Stunt Shows, featuring daring maneuvers and crowd-pleasing performances

These events attract motorsport lovers and offer visitors a chance to witness desert racing at its highest level.

Adventure Tourism Opportunities for Every Explorer

Beyond the official competitions, the festival’s surroundings turn into an adventure hub. The Liwa desert offers countless opportunities for thrill-seekers, including:

Guided dune bashing in powerful 4×4 vehicles
Quad biking through dedicated off-road trails
Sandboarding down golden dunes
Camel trekking, providing a traditional method of desert transport
Optional helicopter tours, offering panoramic views of Al Dhafra (depending on seasonal availability)

These activities allow visitors to engage with the desert environment in both thrilling and leisurely ways. Whether you’re gliding down dunes or navigating rugged tracks, Liwa’s landscape offers endless excitement.

A Celebration of Emirati Heritage

While motorsports bring energy and spectacle, the festival also deeply honors Emirati traditions. Cultural elements are woven throughout the event to highlight the UAE’s Bedouin roots.

Visitors can explore:

Traditional souks selling handmade crafts, spices, perfumes, and textiles
Heritage exhibitions showcasing ancient tools, tents, and lifestyle elements
Displays of falconry, a cherished Emirati tradition
Camel and horse competitions, reflecting the region’s historical reliance on these animals
Live performances of poetry recitals, storytelling sessions, and folk dances

This combination of culture and modern activities makes the Liwa International Festival both entertaining and educational, giving travelers a richer understanding of Emirati identity.

Where to Stay: Luxury, Comfort, and Adventure in the Desert

High-End Desert Resorts

Liwa is home to several luxury desert resorts that elevate the travel experience. These properties offer premium amenities in serene surroundings, including:

Spacious rooms or private villas
Resort-style pools
Spa treatments
On-site dining with local and international cuisines
Stargazing terraces overlooking the quiet desert

This type of accommodation is ideal for visitors looking to relax in comfort after a day exploring the festival.

Glamping: A Popular Choice for Festival Travelers

Glamping (glamorous camping) has become one of the top lodging choices during the festival period. It provides:

Comfortable tents with full bedding
Air-conditioning or cooling fans in select setups
Private or shared bathrooms
Outdoor lounging areas
Authentic décor inspired by Bedouin traditions

Glamping allows guests to stay close to nature without sacrificing comfort, making it especially appealing for groups or families attending the festival.

Budget-Friendly Lodges and Campsites

For travelers seeking practical options, Liwa offers several budget-conscious accommodations, including:

Modest family-run lodges
Shared camping sites
Basic desert inns
Affordable hotels in nearby towns within Al Dhafra

These options are convenient for short stays or travelers who prioritize festival access over luxury amenities.

Why Liwa International Festival Draws Global Attention

A Magnet for Adventure and Motorsport Lovers

The festival takes place at the perfect time of year—when the UAE enjoys cool winter weather. This makes outdoor events more enjoyable and encourages tourists to engage in adventure-based activities. As a result, there is strong demand for:

4×4 vehicle rentals
Desert adventure tours
Glamping packages
Resort stays in the Al Dhafra region

Travel companies often promote Liwa Festival packages because the event consistently attracts a wide demographic—families, sports enthusiasts, culture seekers, and international travelers.

Guidance for Visitors Attending the Festival

Getting to Liwa

Liwa is located in the far western region of Abu Dhabi Emirate. Travel distances include:

About 220 km from Abu Dhabi City
About 350 km from Dubai

Most visitors drive or rent a car for the journey. A 4×4 vehicle is encouraged, especially for those who wish to explore areas beyond the main festival grounds.

Packing Recommendations

Visitors should prepare for both warm days and cooler desert nights. Recommended items include:

Lightweight clothing
A warm layer for evenings
Suitable footwear for walking on sand
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
A reusable water bottle
A camera or smartphone for photography

Though facilities at the festival are well-organized, being prepared enhances comfort and enjoyment.

Best Times to Explore the Festival

While activities run throughout the day, the festival becomes particularly lively at night. Cooler temperatures draw crowds to motorsport competitions, outdoor dining, and cultural performances. Many visitors prefer arriving late afternoon to enjoy both daylight excitement and nighttime shows.

Final Thoughts: A Festival That Captures the Spirit of the Desert

The Liwa International Festival 2025–2026 is far more than a motorsport event; it is a complete celebration of adventure, culture, and community. Whether you’re drawn by the thrilling dune races, intrigued by Emirati traditions, or excited to spend nights under the desert sky, the festival delivers an experience that is both memorable and meaningful.

Set between December 12, 2025, and January 3, 2026, this festival is the perfect winter escape for anyone wanting to explore the UAE’s natural beauty and dynamic desert lifestyle. For travelers, it offers a rare opportunity to witness the UAE’s adventurous spirit and cultural heritage in one vibrant setting.