Liwa Festival Set to Return with Thrills and Magic Shows

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Motorsports fans, families, and adventure seekers are in for a treat as the Liwa International Festival returns to Abu Dhabi’s tallest dune, Tal Moreeb. From December 13 to January 4, this thrilling desert festival promises exciting events, family-friendly attractions, and incredible live entertainment. Whether you're into adrenaline-pumping motorsports or looking for a fun family getaway, Liwa has something for everyone.

Family Adventure in the Desert

While the festival is a motorsports haven, it’s also perfect for families. The Wanasa Zone offers a variety of attractions, including carnival rides, a petting zoo, and even an escape room. Plus, the Night Oasis provides an immersive museum experience for those looking to explore the cultural side of Liwa. Every evening at 8 pm, enjoy a breathtaking fireworks display that lights up the desert sky.

For those looking to take in the stunning views from above, hot air balloon rides offer a bird’s eye view of the festival and the surrounding desert landscape.

New Attractions for 2025

This year, two exciting new attractions will be added to the Liwa Festival lineup:

Hollywood Circus – Experience acrobats, magicians, and clowns as they deliver thrilling performances for all ages.
Shams Liwa Ferris Wheel – Get the perfect photo op and enjoy panoramic views of Tal Moreeb and the expansive dunes from this towering Ferris wheel.

Motorsports and Thrills

The Liwa Festival is the place to be for motorsports enthusiasts. With daring acts and the roar of engines filling the air, here's what fans can expect during the festival:

December 13-14: Freestyle Drift – Watch as master drivers showcase their incredible drifting skills.
December 15: Buggy Torque Challenge – High-intensity buggy showdowns across the desert dunes.
December 19: Liwa Burnout Challenge – Engines roar in a high-stakes burnout showdown.
December 21: Liwa Drift Championship – Drivers compete in an intense drift challenge.
December 22: Bike Drag Racing – Watch bikers race head-to-head in a fast-paced competition.
December 27-28: Monster Jam – The world’s largest monster truck show with an exclusive Pit Party.
December 30-31: Car Stunt Championship – World-class drivers perform mind-blowing stunts.
January 1: Electronic Freestyle Championship – Where motorsports meet modern technology for an electrifying showcase.
January 2-4: Moreeb Dune Car Championship – Drivers tackle the region’s steepest climb to bring the festival’s motorsports events to a thrilling close.

Festival-goers can also witness the crushing power of 12,000-pound trucks and daring motocross performances.

Traditional Desert Sports and Cultural Experiences

For those who appreciate the UAE’s traditional sports, the festival offers plenty of cultural experiences:

December 16: Camel Racing – Watch these majestic creatures race across the dunes.
December 23: Horse Racing – A fast-paced competition showcasing the elegance of Arabian horses.
December 24-26: Falcon Racing – A display of skill and speed by the UAE’s birds of prey.

Explore the Liwa Village Souk to discover intricate handicrafts made by local artisans, each telling a story of the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Dining and Entertainment

Whether you're in the mood for Emirati cuisine or international flavors, the festival has something to satisfy your cravings. From local delicacies to global dishes, you'll find plenty of options to keep you fueled throughout the day.

Every Saturday, the Tarab Liwa stage hosts live performances, concerts, and stage shows. This year’s concert lineup features celebrated regional artists:

December 14: Mutref Al Mutref and Mohammad Al Bakri.
December 21: Hamad El Ameri and Aryam.
December 28: Aseel Hameem and Mahmoud Turky.
December 31: A performance by Abadi Al Johar and Rahma Riad, with a fireworks display to ring in the New Year.

Glamping and Camping

Why not extend your desert adventure with a unique stay? Festival-goers can book a glamping tent, local accommodation, or bring their own RV or tent to camp under the stars. Experience the magic of the Al Dhafra region, surrounded by the golden dunes of Liwa.

Tickets for the Liwa Festival are available now on the festival’s official website. Don’t miss your chance to be part of one of the UAE’s most thrilling desert events of the year!

Plan your desert adventure today and get ready for an unforgettable winter getaway at the Liwa International Festival 2025.