The Liwa International Festival 2026 (Liwa 2026) is set to return to the Al Dhafra Region, promising a 23-day celebration of heritage, adventure, and motorsport. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the festival will run from December 12, 2025, to January 3, 2026.
Hosted by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) in cooperation with multiple partners, including the Liwa Sports Club and Abu Dhabi Police, the event reaffirms the Al Dhafra Region’s status as a leading winter destination.
Held around the UAE’s highest sand dunes at “Tal Moreeb,” the festival will feature a diverse program for both thrill-seekers and families. Highlights include high-octane speed races, professional drift shows, and challenging dune-driving competitions. The schedule also features a wide array of live concerts, cultural tours, and family entertainment shows.
DCT Abu Dhabi will also be hosting desert-themed activities and a special “Liwa Village.” This village will celebrate authentic Emirati heritage through a crafts market, creative workshops, and local vendors selling unique products and traditional cuisine. The festival is expected to attract a broad range of visitors, from international motorsport professionals and adventure enthusiasts to families and cultural tourists.
A full program of events and activities will be announced in the coming weeks.
