Epic Festivities Amidst Liwa's Majestic Dunes

Liwa International Festival 2026: Desert Thrills, Emirates Heritage, New Year Celebration Amidst Liwa Dunes

One of the largest open-air events in the United Arab Emirates, the Liwa International Festival 2026 has kicked off, dazzling visitors with a spectacular array of programs from the very first day. The event, taking place next to the famous Liwa dunes in the Al Dhafra region belonging to Abu Dhabi, runs until January 3 and offers a special occasion for visitors to enjoy adrenaline, culture, and authentic Arab hospitality all at once.

The festival's opening was crowned with a special air show, drone and laser shows, and a spectacular fireworks display, while the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, was illuminated in red in Dubai, indicating the event's national significance. This spectacular gesture also shows that the United Arab Emirates is not just about modernity, but increasingly relies on cultural heritage and support for local communities.

Motorsports, Desert Challenges, and Technical Feats

One of the biggest attractions of the Liwa Festival is motorsports, with fans being able to enjoy numerous races. Spectators can witness desert dune races, drifting and burnout championships, speed races, as well as the highly popular Moreeb Dune Car Championship events. The famous Moreeb Dune, one of the steepest sand dunes in the world, provides an exciting terrain for both professional and amateur racers.

For the first time in 2026, the Extreme Mud Fest is being held, where participants can test their skills on a specialized off-road track. The mud, terrain conditions, and spectacular obstacles offer a unique experience for both spectators and racers.

Cultural Experiences, Heritage Preservation, and Community Space

The Liwa Festival caters not only to fans of speed and extreme sports. In a separate section called Liwa Village, visitors can acquaint themselves with various aspects of Emirate culture, from traditional crafts to the bustling souk (market) and family zones where special programs entertain children.

In the village, one can try water go-karting, zip lines, escape rooms, petting zoos, and even pony rides. The evening hours are filled with stage performances, live music, and dance productions. The gastronomic offerings are also noteworthy: in addition to traditional Emirate dishes, international flavors are also available, ensuring that every visitor finds something to their liking.

Sport Championships and Special Competitions

The falconry championship held as part of the Liwa Festival is a true spectacle, showcasing one of the most important traditional sports in the region. Additionally, sand wrestling, boxing matches, and electronic freestyle competitions are included in the program, offering new thrills for sports enthusiasts each day.

New Year Celebration in the Desert

The festival holds special significance during the end of the year period. The New Year's Eve concert and accompanying fireworks create a special atmosphere among the dunes. Visitors can welcome the new year close to nature, in an authentic environment, yet surrounded by modern amenities.

The festival venue allows for camping, ensuring that those who wish to spend more days in the desert environment can enjoy the event. The local infrastructure ensures a comfortable stay, and organizers ensure that participants feel safe and comfortable.

Increasingly Popular Region: Al Dhafra in Focus

Thanks to the festival, the Al Dhafra region, located in the western part of Abu Dhabi, is increasingly becoming the focus of attention. The region is not only attractive for its natural beauty — such as endless dunes — but also because significant investments have been made in tourism and sports infrastructure in recent years.

The aim of the Liwa International Festival is not just entertainment but also to promote the economic and cultural development of the region. The festival is realized with the cooperation of numerous institutions and authorities, including the Abu Dhabi Tourism Bureau, the local government, the sports council, and several media partners support the event.

Summary

The Liwa International Festival 2026 is not merely an event but a complex experience that blends Emirate traditions with modern entertainment and sporting challenges. Festival visitors can simultaneously partake in a rich cultural journey while enjoying desert adventures, spectacular shows, races, and concert experiences.

This event has rightfully become one of the largest winter attractions in the United Arab Emirates, attracting visitors not only from within the country but also from many parts of the world. Celebrating the New Year amidst the Liwa dunes is truly an unforgettable experience.

(Source: On the occasion of the start of the Liwa International Festival 2026.)