Liwa Festival 2025 is Back: Fireworks, Glamping, Desert Races, and Free Entry
The UAE’s biggest desert festival returns this December with 23 days of fireworks, motorsports, concerts, and starlit camping under Tal Moreeb.
The Liwa International Festival is making a grand comeback this winter, turning the UAE’s tallest dune — Tal Moreeb — into a massive playground for thrill-seekers, campers, and families. From December 12, 2025, to January 3, 2026, Al Dhafra’s golden desert will buzz with racing engines, fireworks, concerts, and cultural shows.
First held in 2001, the festival has grown into one of the UAE’s biggest winter traditions, pulling crowds from across the country for its mix of heritage, adventure, and entertainment.
What’s New This Year
Expect aerobatic air shows, drone displays, dune projections, and even hot air balloon rides that let you float over the vast Liwa landscape. The festival will also feature a giant ferris wheel, carnival rides, heritage markets, and live concerts — perfect for both families and adventure junkies.
Entry is totally free, though some VIP areas and competitions might come with separate fees (you’ll find all details on the Liwa Sports Club app).
Opening and Fireworks Galore
The opening kicks off with a jaw-dropping performance from Forsan Al Emarat, the UAE Air Force’s aerobatic team, followed by fireworks lighting up the desert sky. Expect more fireworks on weekends, New Year’s Eve, and during the closing ceremony.
Stay Under the Stars
Want the full desert experience? Visitors can camp out or book glamping tents for a cozy night under the stars. Local accommodations are also available nearby for those who prefer comfort over sand.
New Year’s Eve Desert Bash
The festival will close with a bang on December 31, featuring the Tal Moreeb Car Championship, a concert, and — you guessed it — massive fireworks to welcome 2026.
Where the Fun Happens
Liwa Village will serve as the main hub for all the action. Think zip lines, smash rooms, petting zoos, souks, and live shows — plus a huge ferris wheel for the best view in town. Foodies, get ready: there’ll be plenty of Emirati and international eats to dig into.
Adrenaline at Full Speed
This year’s motorsport lineup is packed:
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Freestyle Drift: Dec 12–13, 22–23
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Spartan Race Liwa: Dec 13
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Bike Drag Racing: Dec 14
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Car Stunt Championship: Dec 19–20, 28–29
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Liwa Burnout Championship: Dec 25
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Tal Moreeb Car Championship: Dec 31–Jan 3
And yes — there’s falconry, mud fests, dune challenges, and even sand wrestling.
Planning to Join?
Liwa is about a three-hour drive from Abu Dhabi, with clear road signs leading to the site. All updates, maps, and registration details are available on the Liwa Sports Club app.