Calling all thrill-seekers, culture enthusiasts, and families looking for a unique adventure! The Liwa Festival 2025, also known as the Tal Moreeb Festival, is all set to turn Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region into an exciting desert playground this December.
This annual event in the stunning Empty Quarter—the world’s largest sand desert—features a thrilling mix of motorsports, cultural shows, live entertainment, and activities for all ages. Whether you’re after the excitement of dune bashing or a peaceful dive into Emirati traditions, the Liwa Festival has it all.
What is The Liwa Festival 2025?
Liwa festival is a vibrant celebration of Emirati culture, providing a space to reconnect with deep-rooted traditions through carefully planned events. Visitors can embark on a nostalgic journey and deeply engage with Emirati heritage.
From traditional food, clothing, and customs to performances and crafts that still impact modern life, visitors can fully dive into Emirati culture’s rich aspects.
Liwa Festival 2025 Date and Timings
The Liwa International Festival (Moreeb Dune 2025) is set to return this December, as announced by the Abu Dhabi DCT (Department of Culture and Tourism). Organised by Liwa Sports Club and DCT – Abu Dhabi, the festival will take place from Friday, December 13 to Saturday, January 04, in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi.
Festival timings are as follows:
- Friday and Saturday from 03 PM to 02 AM, and
- Sunday through Thursday from 04 PM to Midnight.
This annual festival, known for its unique blend of motorsports, cultural events, and sustainable practices, is a motorsports spectacle held on and around Moreeb Dune, the UAE’s tallest dune at 300 meters high. This year’s event will feature bike drag racing, Monster Jam trucks, buggy torque, and more. You can learn more about the festival by visiting the official Liwa International Festival’s Instagram page or the website.
Here’s a glimpse of Liwa Festival 2025:
What More Can You Expect at Liwa Date Festival 2025
The Liwa Date Festival offers different and memorable experiences to its visitors. Following is the line-up of activities and experiences at last year’s Festival, still waiting for the details of the 2025 Liwa Festival.
Key Attractions of the Liwa Festival:
- Motorsports: High-octane events include Buggy Torque, Liwa Burnout, Liwa Drift, Bike Drag Racing, Liwa UTV, Car Stunt Championship, Electronic Freestyle Championship, and the Moreeb Dune Cars Championship. These events take place at various locations, such as the Freestyle Drift Arena, UTV Drag Racing Circuit, and Moreeb Dune.
- Traditional sports: Experience Emirati heritage through Camel Racing, Pigeon Hunt Competition, Horse Racing, and Falcon Racing, all held at the Heritage Racing Arena.
- Live performances: Enjoy concerts by artists like Abadi Al Johar, Rahma Riad, Mutref Al Mutref, Mohamad Al Bakri, Mahmoud Al Turki, Aseel Hameem, Hamad Al Ameri, and Aryam at Liwa Village. Moreeb Dune Park will also feature live performances.
- Cultural experiences: The Liwa Film Show at Moreeb Dune provides a cultural experience.
- Shopping: Find local products and souvenirs at the Moreeb Dune Market and Liwa Walk.
- Dining: The Liwa Walk features a Food Truck Zone.
- Other attractions: The festival also includes a Classic Cars Exhibition, New Year Celebrations, Fireworks at Moreeb Dune, the Liwa Exhibition Space, and Sports Amenities beside the RV Parking.
Family-friendly activities
Moreeb Dune Park is a hub for family fun, with rides, amusements, and live performances. Liwa Village also offers various entertainment options, some of which are ticketed.
Local cuisine and dining options
One of the festival highlights is the food. Traditional Emirati dishes such as harees, machboos, and luqaimat are served at the food truck zone. Additionally, international cuisine caters to diverse tastes.
Photography opportunities
With motorsports, cultural performances, and the stunning desert landscape, the festival offers numerous photo opportunities.
Sustainability initiatives
Liwa Village has taken significant steps toward sustainability. Key initiatives include:
- Renewable energy: 20% of the village’s operations are powered by solar energy.
- Mobile battery system: The village has introduced the GCC’s first mobile battery system, improving energy efficiency.
These efforts reflect the UAE’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy use.
Liwa Festival 2025 tickets and cost
Yes, you will need tickets to visit the Liwa International Festival (Moreeb Dune 2025), which is set to be held from December 13 to January 04, 2025. Tickets start at AED 10 for children and AED 20 for adults. Family tickets for groups of four are AED 50.
How to get there?
| Transportation method | Route/Details |
| By Car | From Abu Dhabi, take Sheikh Zayed Road (E10) toward Sweihan/Al Ain and follow the signs to Liwa. Continue on this road until you arrive. |
| By Taxi | Taxis are available throughout Abu Dhabi and can take you directly to Liwa. Drivers are generally familiar with the location. |
Tips for visitors
- Stay hydrated: Drink sufficient water during this festival.
- Dress comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothing suitable if you are planning any desert activities there. Modest clothing is recommended.
- Accommodation: Book your stay in advance as various accommodation options exist in and around Liwa Oasis.
Final takeaway
The Liwa Festival 2025 is a must-visit for adventure lovers, culture fans, and families. Held in the beautiful Al Dhafra region, it features a mix of motorsports, cultural displays, and family activities. Enjoy dune bashing, camel races, traditional Emirati performances, and delicious food. Plan your visit, stay hydrated, dress comfortably, and book your accommodation early for an unforgettable desert experience.
