Today's Edition
RAJEEV CHERIAN (LIWA, Al DHAFRA REGION)
The thrum of cars scaling the dunes and the glow of the illuminated Liwa Village welcomed visitors to the Liwa International Festival 2025-2026, offering a memorable experience, from exhilarating motorsport events to heritage and family entertainment shows.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the event was organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) in cooperation with Liwa Sports Club, Al Dhafra Municipality, Abu Dhabi Police, Miral, Abu Dhabi Media Network, and other partners.
The festival, held against the backdrop of the iconic Tal Moreeb dunes, concluded on Saturday after 23 days of celebration, serving as a gathering spot for motorsport enthusiasts and an ideal family outing destination — all while showcasing the local culture and highlighting the values of community spirit and sportsmanship.
Located on the South of Liwa Oasis, some 250km southwest of Abu Dhabi, Tal Moreeb — one of the world’s tallest sand dunes — is more than 300 metres high and features slopes with 50-degree inclines, making it an exciting and challenging location for off-roaders. The historic Liwa Oasis lies at the northern edge of Rub’ Al Khali or the Empty Quarter, the world’s largest uninterrupted desert.
Adventurers and thrill-seekers were certainly served the action they were looking for, with the series of car drift, racing, and stunt events that packed the festival’s calendar. Falconry championships, sand wrestling, as well as running, cycling, padel and boxing, also drew crowds.
A stroll through the vibrantly illuminated Liwa Village, the cultural and entertainment hub of the festival, proved a treat for families as many stopped to take photos in front of a giant Ferris wheel. The Classic Car Museum at the venue was also a big hit.
Attractions such as the Auto Zone, Horror Escape Room, and Smash Room, Pony Grove, and Petting Zoo engaged visitors of all ages.
Foodies were spoilt for choice as several stalls whipped up and served dishes and delicacies from Emirati and international cuisines. The souk zone and its heritage shops were just as busy with customers looking for mementos.
The festival also offered spaces that served as the perfect spot for those who wish to camp under the stars and soak in the desert environment.
All these experiences were accompanied with live music and cultural performances, adding colour to Liwa Festival’s appeal as an ideal family outing space.
As the festival wrapped up, several SUVs were spotted on the streets stretching out from the village, many of them towing camping trailers — bidding adieu to Liwa after yet another exhilarating winter experience.
