Abu Dhabi: Get ready for an exhilarating blend of culture, and unforgettable experiences at Liwa International Festival 2025 (LIWA 2025), set against the iconic golden dunes of Abu Dhabi.
From 13 December 2024 to 4 January 2025, this grand festival will be a celebration of motorsports, family fun, and cultural heritage in one of the UAE’s most breathtaking locations- the towering Tal Moreeb dune in Al Dhafra.
Thrills, Speed, and Daring Stunts
The heart of LIWA 2025 beats to the rhythm of motorsports, with an action-packed lineup that pushes the limits of speed, skill, and daring stunts. Key events include:
- 13-14 December: Freestyle Drift – Watch master drivers defy gravity and drift across the sand in a battle of precision and power.
- 15 December: Buggy Torque Challenge -Buckle up for a high-speed buggy showdown that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
- 19 December: Liwa Burnout Challenge -Feel the heat as drivers unleash smoke, speed, and power on the desert floor.
- 21 December: Liwa Drift Championship -World-class drifters take on the dunes in this thrilling race against time.
- 22 December: Bike Drag Racing – Witness the raw power of motorcycles competing head-to-head for the title.
- 27-28 December: Monster Jam -Hold your breath as 12,000-pound trucks perform jaw-dropping stunts and monster tricks.
- 30-31 December: Car Stunt Championship – Watch the world’s best stunt drivers push the limits with breathtaking aerial flips and tricks.
- 1 January 2025: Electronic Freestyle Championship -The future meets the desert as technology and motorsport collide in this one-of-a-kind event.
- 2-4 January: Moreeb Dune Car Championship – Conquer the UAE’s steepest dunes in this ultimate test of skill and endurance.
Our new campaign film highlights Liwa International Festival 2025 (LIWA 2025) as the ultimate winter getaway. Taking place from 13 December to 4 January, this annual event offers a thrilling blend of adventure, culture, pic.twitter.com/OS7V1jy8Np
— Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (@dctabudhabi) November 27, 2024
Family Fun & Cultural Wonders
LIWA 2025 is not just for thrill-seekers, families and culture lovers will find plenty to explore:
- Liwa Village: The heart of the festival, offering a mix of carnival rides, a petting zoo, and even an escape room for the entire family.
- The Night Oasis: Immerse yourself in the history of the desert with an interactive museum that brings Liwa’s heritage to life.
- Liwa Village Souk: Explore the finest local crafts and traditional Emirati handicrafts, each piece reflecting the region’s rich cultural legacy.
- Fireworks Display: End each day with a breathtaking fireworks show lighting up the desert skies at 8 pm.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soar above the festival and get an unforgettable aerial view of the desert and the action below.
More to Explore at LIWA 2025
Two exciting new attractions will debut at LIWA 2025: the Hollywood Circus, featuring acrobats, magicians, and clowns for the whole family to enjoy, and the Shams Liwa Ferris Wheel, offering panoramic views of Tal Moreeb and the surrounding dunes.
After all the thrills, indulge in the variety of food offerings at the festival, from authentic Emirati cuisine to international flavors. Whether you’re craving traditional dishes or exploring new tastes, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Celebration of Emirati Heritage
Rooted in the UAE’s deep cultural heritage, LIWA 2025 will showcase traditional desert sports that have defined the region for centuries:
- 16 December: Camel Racing -Experience the excitement of camel racing, a cherished Emirati tradition.
- 23 December: Horse Racing -Watch the elegance and power of Arabian horses in this iconic desert race.
- 24-26 December: Falcon Racing Tournament -See the UAE’s falconry tradition take center stage in a thrilling competition of speed and precision.
Tarab Liwa
Every Saturday night, Tarab Liwa will transform Liwa Village into a vibrant entertainment hub, featuring live performances, concerts, and stage shows. This season’s concert lineup includes some of the region’s most celebrated artists:
- 14 December: Mutref Al Mutref and Mohammad Al Bakri
- 21 December: Hamad El Ameri and Aryam
- 28 December: Aseel Hameem and Mahmoud Turky
- 31 December (New Year’s Eve): Ring in 2025 with a spectacular concert by Abadi Al Johar and Rahma Riad, followed by a fireworks extravaganza.
Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
LIWA 2025 is more than just a festival- it’s a celebration of adventure, culture, and the spirit of the desert. Whether you’re racing through the dunes, exploring traditional crafts, or enjoying world-class entertainment under the stars, LIWA 2025 offers something for everyone.
Mark your calendar and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s golden dunes.