Liwa International Festival Returns With Culture, Motorsport, Fun

The Liwa International Festival is set to return from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026, offering 23 days of entertainment, adventure, and cultural experiences in the golden dunes of the Al Dhafra Region.

The festival has grown into one of the UAE’s most anticipated annual events, combining heritage, family fun, and adrenaline-filled motorsport action against the backdrop of the 300-metre Tal Moreeb, the tallest dune in the country.

This year, the festival will open with a spectacular display by Forsan Al Emarat, the official aerobatics team of the UAE Air Force. The opening ceremony will also feature fireworks, light shows, and drone shows, lighting up the desert sky and welcoming visitors to the festivities.

The opening sets the tone for a festival that blends modern entertainment with traditional Emirati culture, ensuring memorable experiences for all ages.

Motorsport remains the heart of the festival. Highlights include Freestyle Drift on 12–13 and 22–23 December, the Spartan Race Liwa on 13 December, Bike Drag Racing on 14 December, and the Car Stunt Championship on 19–20 December.

New to the festival, the Extreme Mudfest promises an action-packed motorsport experience in the desert sands, running on 19–20 December. Additional motorsport events include Liwa Drift, Monster Jam, Tal Moreeb Car Championship, Liwa Burnout Championship, and Sand Wrestling, ensuring excitement for racing fans.

The Liwa Festival also celebrates UAE heritage, with events such as falconry demonstrations from 15–17 December, Souk Zone and Pop-Up Heritage Shops, pigeon hunt competitions, and traditional handicrafts.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture of the desert while enjoying educational and interactive experiences that connect heritage with modern festivities.

At Liwa Village, families can enjoy water karting, carnival rides, pony rides, ziplines, and skill games. Additional attractions include the Classic Car Museum, Auto Zone, Horror Escape Room, Smash Room, and a petting zoo, providing entertainment for children and adults alike.

Daily Dune Projection Shows, Drone Shows, and Hot Air Balloons add a magical touch, while food stalls offer Emirati favorites and global cuisines to delight visitors.

In addition to motorsports, the festival features Liwa Running Challenge, Liwa Cycling Race, Liwa UTV, Liwa Padel Championship, and weekend football competitions. Boxing will run from 15–21 December, and the Jetour Travel Conference takes place on 19–21 December.

These activities encourage participation, fitness, and community engagement, complementing the festival’s vibrant atmosphere.

The festival’s New Year’s Eve events promise an unforgettable celebration. On 31 December, the Tal Moreeb Car Championship begins its three-day run, accompanied by a special concert and a fireworks display.

Visitors can welcome 2026 surrounded by music, adventure, and the breathtaking desert landscape of Al Dhafra Region.

From falconry and handicrafts to motorsports and extreme challenges, the Liwa International Festival celebrates the UAE’s heritage, innovation, and community spirit.

It offers a unique blend of tradition and modern entertainment, ensuring visitors of all ages enjoy culture, adventure, music, and family fun in one of the UAE’s most spectacular desert settings.