Where is the 2026 edition being held?
In Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra, the Liwa International Festival 2026 takes place near Tal Moreeb, the UAE’s tallest dune at 300 metres. The desert near Liwa Oasis comes alive with engines roaring, falcons soaring, and families celebrating tradition and innovation.
When does the festival take place?
Running under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan until January 3, 2026, the festival has become a fixture of the winter season. The opening ceremony was attended by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, and His Highness Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, alongside senior dignitaries and officials. Their presence underscored the festival’s cultural significance and its role in showcasing Abu Dhabi’s identity to the world.
How was the opening ceremony marked?
As night fell over the Liwa desert, a laser, drone, and light show lit up the dunes with fireworks. The UAE’s Al Fursan aerobatic team performed breathtakingly, weaving colours across the horizon. Their Highnesses toured Liwa Village, visiting sporting events, heritage showcases, and attractions of the 2026 festival. The opening set the tone, combining old traditions with modern entertainment.
What are the sporting highlights of 2026?
Motorsport remains the festival’s core attraction. The desert stage hosts speed races, dune driving challenges, freestyle shows, sand racing, drift and burnout competitions, drag racing, and UTV circuit races. Starting on December 31, 2025, the Moreeb Dune Car Championship offers exhilarating moments as the year begins. Additionally, 2026 introduces the Extreme Mud Fest driving challenge, bringing new excitement to the event lineup.
Equally prominent are heritage sports such as falconry championships, camel racing, sand wrestling, and boxing matches. These events underscore the region’s rich cultural traditions, highlighting that the festival is about both honouring tradition and showcasing modern entertainment.
What is Liwa Village offering in 2026?
Liwa Village remains the festival’s cultural and entertainment hub, organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. It offers a curated experience celebrating Emirati heritage with a traditional souk, workshops, and family zones. Visitors enjoy water karting, carnival games, zip lines, escape rooms, smash rooms, petting zoos, pony rides, and live entertainment. Authentic Emirati and international cuisines make it a vibrant destination for families and tourists.
Why is the 2026 edition significant?
Liwa International Festival 2026 affirms its status as a key winter event, attracting camping enthusiasts, adventure seekers, motorsport fans, and heritage lovers. Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi with partners like Liwa Sports Club, Al Dhafra Municipality, Abu Dhabi Police, Abu Dhabi Media Office, and others, the festival showcases Al Dhafra as a hub for adventure, culture, and family entertainment.
Merging motorsport, heritage, music, and family fun, its 2026 edition provides a perfect setting for celebrating the New Year amid the desert’s grand stage. It’s a festival where tradition meets innovation, creating memories under Abu Dhabi’s winter skies.
