ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

Liwa International Festival 2025 (LIWA 2025) is set to draws tens of thousands of motorsports fans, and families for a thrilling blend of adventure, culture, and unforgettable experiences within the desert’s grand stage — Abu Dhabi’s golden dunes.

From 13 December, 2024, to 3 January, 2025, LIWA 2025 combines adrenaline-pumping racing, drifting and dune bashing, alongside live entertainment, family fun and cultural moments. All the action takes place under the iconic Tal Moreeb—the UAE’s tallest dune—in Al Dhafra region.

The festival will include various events and activities from  13-14 December, there will be the Freestyle Drift as master drivers showcase epic drifting skills. On 15 December, there will be the Buggy Torque Challenge, a high-intensity buggy showdown across the dunes.

On 19 December, there is the Liwa Burnout Challenge and on 21 December, the Liwa Drift Championship will take place. On 22 December, bikers will compete head-to-head in the high-speed Bike Drag Racing event.

Furthermore, for 2024, participants will witness 12,000-pound trucks and daring motocross acts. On December 27-28, Monster Jam will take place, while on 30-31 January, the Car Stunt Championship will feature world-class drivers performing stunts.

For New Year’s Day, the Electronic Freestyle Championship will see motorsports meet modern technology in a showcase. On 2-4 January, 2025, participants can be part of one of the toughest challenges on Liwa’s famed dunes with the Moreeb Dune Car Championship. This classic contest pushes drivers to the limit on the region’s steepest climb and brings the festival’s exciting programme to a close.

Liwa Village sits at the heart of the festival, offering a variety of activities and attractions. Families should flock to the Wanasa Zone for carnival rides, a petting zoo, and an escape room. Nearby, there is also the Night Oasis, which is an immersive museum.

Participants can also explore traditional crafts at the Liwa Village Souk, where you will find handicrafts created by local artisans, each piece telling a story of Liwa’s cultural heritage.

Each evening at LIWA 2025, witness fireworks display at 8 pm, lighting up the desert sky. Enjoy hot air balloon rides for an aerial view of the festival and the surrounding desert landscape.

Two new attractions are also coming to LIWA 2025 will include The Hollywood Circus is where acrobats, magicians, and clowns will deliver lively performances to delight the whole family.

The Shams Liwa Ferris Wheel offers breathtaking panoramic views of Tal Moreeb and the surrounding dunes. Catch the perfect photo op as you take in the stunning desert landscape.

Once all the fun has worked up an appetite, treat yourself to delicious local and global flavours. From authentic Emirati specialties to tasty international bites, there is something to satisfy every craving.

LIWA 2025 will also be a showcase for the rich heritage and traditions of the UAE. Fans of traditional sports will be delighted by a trio of racing events across the desert sands, all deeply rooted in the culture and history of the Emirati people.

On 16 December, 2024, participants can witness camel racing, on 23 December, there will be horse racing event and from 24-26 December, there will be falcon racing tournament.

Tarab Liwa in Liwa Village is set to light up LIWA 2025 each Saturday night, with captivating performances, concerts, and stage shows. This season’s concert line-up features some of the region’s most celebrated artists, transforming the festival into a vibrant nightlife destination under the starry desert sky.  On 14 December, Mutref Al Mutref and Mohammad Al Bakri will be performing, while Hamad El Ameri and Aryam will also be performing on 21 December.

On 28 December, Aseel Hameem and Mahmoud Turky will take to the stage. For New Year’s Eve on 31 December, attend a concert featuring Abadi Al Johar and Rahma Riad, and ring in 2025 with the fireworks display over Liwa’s dunes.