Post by : Meena
Hassan
The upcoming Liwa International Festival will take place from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026, promising 23 days filled with excitement, adventure, and cultural activities amid the stunning Al Dhafra Region's golden dunes.
As one of the UAE's most eagerly awaited events, the festival masterfully blends heritage with family-friendly entertainment and thrilling motorsport activities, all set against the stunning backdrop of Tal Moreeb, the tallest dune in the nation.
Kicking off the festivities will be an impressive performance by Forsan Al Emarat, the UAE Air Force's official aerobatics team. The inaugural ceremony will also incorporate mesmerizing fireworks, light shows, and drone displays to charm the audience as they enter this vibrant occasion.
This year’s festival maintains a rich connection to modern entertainment while showcasing traditional Emirati culture, ensuring unforgettable experiences for all attendees.
Motorsport activities are pivotal to the event, featuring exciting events such as Freestyle Drift on December 12–13 and 22–23, the Spartan Race Liwa on December 13, Bike Drag Racing on December 14, and the Car Stunt Championship on December 19–20.
Adding to the excitement is the new Extreme Mudfest, an action-packed motorsport event slated for December 19–20. Other racing highlights will include Liwa Drift, Monster Jam, Tal Moreeb Car Championship, Liwa Burnout Championship, and Sand Wrestling, ensuring thrill-seekers have plenty to enjoy.
The festival also pays homage to UAE heritage with events like falconry demonstrations from December 15–17, a Souk Zone, pop-up heritage shops, pigeon hunting competitions, and opportunities to explore traditional handicrafts.
Families visiting Liwa Village will find activities like water karting, carnival rides, pony rides, ziplines, and various skill games. Additional attractions consist of the Classic Car Museum, Auto Zone, Horror Escape Room, Smash Room, and a petting zoo, guaranteeing fun for attendees of all ages.
Additional highlights, such as Daily Dune Projection Shows, Drone Shows, and Hot Air Balloons, will add a magical flair, while various food stalls will delight visitors with both Emirati dishes and international flavors.
Beyond motorsports, participants can engage in the Liwa Running Challenge, Liwa Cycling Race, Liwa UTV events, Liwa Padel Championship, and weekend football matches. Moreover, boxing activities will occur from December 15–21, with the Jetour Travel Conference scheduled for December 19–21.
These activities promote health, participation, and community involvement, contributing to the festival’s dynamic atmosphere.
As the festival approaches the end of the year, a spectacular celebration awaits on December 31 with the Tal Moreeb Car Championship commencing a three-day event, coupled with a concert and a dazzling fireworks display.
Visitors can welcome 2026 surrounded by the magic of music and adventure in the breathtaking desert landscape of the Al Dhafra Region.
Spanning a diverse array of events from falconry and crafts to thrilling motorsports and adventurous challenges, the Liwa International Festival beautifully encapsulates the UAE’s cultural heritage, innovation, and community spirit.
It presents a unique fusion of tradition and contemporary entertainment, ensuring a memorable experience filled with culture, adventure, music, and family fun within one of the UAE’s most captivating desert environments.
English
