The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced that the Liwa International Festival 2026 (Liwa 2026) will take place from December 12, 2025, to January 3, 2026, in Liwa, Al Dhafra Region.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this 23-day festival reaffirms the Al Dhafra Region's position as a premier regional and international winter destination, offering a significant attraction for tour operators and destination management companies (DMCs) during the crucial festive season.
The Liwa Festival, held around Tal Moreeb, the highest sand dunes in the UAE, is set to attract a diverse range of domestic and international visitors, including desert enthusiasts, adventure seekers and motorsports fans.
The extensive programme will feature motorsports, family entertainment and Liwa Village. High-stakes speed races, thrilling drift shows and challenging dune driving competitions, drawing top professional competitors from around the globe.
Live concerts, cultural tours and various other activities designed for families.
This cultural hub will celebrate authentic Emirati heritage, featuring a crafts market, creative workshops, family activities, children’s games, and a variety of local shops and restaurants.
The diverse offering - spanning extreme sports, heritage, and entertainment - makes the festival an ideal component for creating comprehensive winter itineraries, appealing to multiple traveller segments from the GCC and beyond.
The full programme details are expected to be announced by DCT Abu Dhabi in the coming weeks.