Liwa International Festival Set to Break Records with Its Grandest Return

  • Publish date: Friday، 19 September 2025 Reading time: 1 min read

The desert’s biggest winter festival returns with dune racing, family fun, and plenty of dates.

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The Liwa International Festival 2026 is officially back, running from December 12, 2025, to January 3, 2026. For three weeks, Tal Moreeb—the UAE’s tallest dune—will transform into a playground of roaring engines, buzzing markets, and cultural celebrations.

Adrenaline in the sand

Motorsport junkies, this is your moment. The festival will feature speed races, drift shows, and dune-driving challenges, drawing competitors from across the globe. Think of it as the ultimate test of skill, power, and desert grit.

Culture meets family fun

Beyond the engines, Liwa Village will be alive with heritage markets, traditional crafts, and Emirati cultural displays. Families can dive into workshops, kids’ zones, live entertainment, and of course, endless food stalls offering everything from local Emirati flavors to international bites.

The date connection

Liwa isn’t just about dunes—it’s famous for its date palms. Dates have fueled desert life for generations, symbolizing hospitality and tradition. Expect to see them everywhere—served with coffee, in desserts, or transformed into syrups and pastes.

Why it matters

Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, along with Liwa Sports Club and partners, the festival is more than just fun—it’s a showcase of heritage, adventure, and community. Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or just craving a unique winter escape, Liwa’s got something for you.