Liwa International Festival 2026: A Winter Celebration Featuring Motorsports And Cultural Experiences In Abu Dhabi

The Liwa International Festival, known as 'The Desert's Grand Stage', is set to return from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. This event will offer 23 days of cultural activities, motorsports, music, and family entertainment in the Al Dhafra region's golden dunes.

Since its inception in 2001, the festival has become a key winter attraction in Abu Dhabi. It offers a blend of heritage and adventure against the stunning backdrop of Tal Moreeb, the UAE's tallest dune. The festival caters to all interests with world-class racing, dune sports, cultural experiences, and lively entertainment.

This year's festival promises thrilling motorsport events. It starts with Freestyle Drift on 12–13 and 22–23 December. The Spartan Race Liwa follows on 13 December, and Bike Drag Racing takes place on 14 December. Falconry showcases precision from 15–17 December, while the Car Stunt Championship and Mud Fest occur on 19–20 December.

The excitement continues with the Liwa Running Challenge on 20 December. The Liwa Cycling Race and Liwa UTV follow on 21 December. From 23–24 December, the Pigeon Hunt Competition takes place. The high-energy Liwa Burnout Championship is scheduled for 25 December.

On 26 and 27 December, visitors can enjoy Liwa Drift, Monster Jam, and the Tal Moreeb Running Challenge (26 December). The Liwa Padel Championship runs from 26–28 December alongside the Liwa Cycling Challenge on 27 December. Sand Wrestling Championship occurs on 26–27 December before the Car Stunt Championship returns on 28–29 December.

Liwa Village serves as a vibrant hub for families with water karting, carnival rides, skill games, pony rides, and ziplines for both children and adults. Attractions include the Classic Car Museum, Auto Zone, Horror Escape Room, Smash Room, Pony Grove, and petting zoo.

The Souk Zone offers handmade crafts at Pop-Up Heritage Shops. The Performance Stage hosts live music and cultural acts daily. Food lovers can enjoy Emirati dishes alongside global cuisines at various F&B outlets throughout the festival.

The festival's grand finale promises an unforgettable New Year's Eve celebration. On 31 December, the Tal Moreeb Car Championship begins its three-day run as visitors enjoy a special concert followed by fireworks lighting up Liwa's desert sky.

This celebration invites attendees to welcome the new year amid music and adventure in Al Dhafra's breathtaking landscape.

The festival also highlights UAE's rich heritage through falconry displays and handicrafts at Souk Liwa. Visitors can experience pigeon shooting championships that connect desert spirit with national culture.

Attendees are encouraged to pre-book glamping tents or local accommodations or bring their own RVs or tents to camp under stars in Liwa's heart amidst Al Dhafra's golden dunes.