From December 12, 2025, to January 3, 2026, the Liwa International Festival transforms the UAE’s Empty Quarter into a hub of excitement, adrenaline, and culture. While motorsport enthusiasts flock for the high-octane action, the festival offers much more: family activities, traditional Emirati experiences, and a celebration of desert life.
At the heart of the festival are the towering dunes of Tal Moreeb, famously dubbed “the Scariest Dune” for its steep 50-degree incline. Drivers from across the GCC, Europe, and Asia test their skill on the sands, while spectators capture the daring climbs on camera. Yet, Liwa’s enduring appeal is its spirit: families camp under the stars, traditional dishes simmer in open-air kitchens, and visitors enjoy falconry displays, hot-air balloon rides, classic car showcases, and karting experiences.
Family-Friendly Adventures at Liwa Village
Liwa Village offers a host of activities for all ages, including Go Water Kart, Smash Room, 4×4 tracks, Skyline, and Pony Grove. The festival balances adrenaline-fueled days with evenings of vibrant celebration, as fireworks illuminate the desert sky, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
A Global Magnet for Thrill-Seekers
Liwa Festival has become a major international attraction. Professional drivers ship modified 4x4s from abroad, automotive brands showcase cutting-edge technology, and photographers and travel vloggers capture the festival’s spectacle. For many, the desert reveals its true vibrancy through the first-time experiences of global visitors.
Honoring Emirati Tradition
At the festival’s core are Emiratis, particularly men who have long transformed Liwa into a stage of skill, courage, and community. Modern competitions—whether drifting, sand racing, or vehicle showcases—reflect a deep-rooted desert legacy of navigation, resilience, and respect for the land. Months of preparation, engine tuning, and custom vehicle builds underscore the dedication and pride participants bring to the dunes.
A Festival That Evolves While Preserving Its Roots
Liwa balances modernity with heritage. While drones, safety technologies, and international media coverage highlight progress, elders recite traditional poetry, and children learn falconry—bridging past and present in a rapidly modernizing world.
What to Expect in 2025–2026
The upcoming edition promises expanded sports categories, new camping zones, more international participants, and enhanced cultural showcases. Nightly fireworks continue to light up the desert sky, reinforcing Liwa’s status as both a regional and global destination.
A Celebration of the UAE’s Spirit
Liwa Festival remains a testament to the UAE’s character: bold, warm, rooted in tradition, and always looking toward the horizon. From the roar of engines to the glow of campfires and the dazzling fireworks, Liwa 2026 is set to be an unforgettable celebration of adventure, culture, and community.
