Under the Patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra
Region
Spartan Race Liwa
Spartan Race Liwa
Boxing Championship
Boxing Championship
Extreme MudFest
Extreme MudFest
Liwa Running Challenge
Liwa Running Challenge
Liwa Cycling Race
Liwa Cycling Race
Sand Wrestling Championship
Sand Wrestling Championship
Liwa Padel Championship
Liwa Padel Championship
Tal Moreeb Running Challenge
Tal Moreeb Running Challenge
Liwa Cycling Challenge
Liwa Cycling Challenge
Jetour Activation
Jetour Activation
Location: Liwa Sign
Location: Liwa Sign
Location: Liwa Sign
Location: Liwa Sign
Sat 13 Dec
Mon 15 - Sun 21 Dec
Mon 15 - Sun 21 Dec
Sat 19, Sun 20 Dec
Sat 19, Sun 20 Dec
Sat 20 Dec
Sat 20 Dec
Sun 21 Dec
Sun 21 Dec
Fri 26 & Sat 27 Dec
Fri 26 & Sat 27 Dec
Fri 26, Sat 27, Sun 28 Dec
Fri 26, Sat 27, Sun 28 Dec
Fri 26 Dec
Liwa Forts: Mezairaa Fort, Al Meel Fort, Qutouf Fort, and Mouqib Tower
Liwa Forts: Mezairaa Fort, Al Meel Fort, Qutouf Fort, and Mouqib Tower
Sat 27 Dec
Fri 26 Dec Sat 27 Dec
Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21 Dec
Fri 19, Sat 20, Sun 21 Dec
Mon 1 Dec - Fri 9 Jan
Mon 1 Dec - Fri 9 Jan
Football Championship Every Weekend
Football Championship Every Weekend
Mureeb Dune Park
Mureeb Dune Park
Mureeb Dune Market
Mureeb Dune Market
Liwa Walk
Liwa Walk
Exhibition Area
Exhibition Area
Sports Amenities (Weekends only)
Hot Air Balloon Shows Sat 13 Dec
Sports Amenities (Weekends only)
Hot Air Balloon Shows
Location Fri 12 Dec '25 – Sat 3 Jan '26
4PM till midnight daily
Liwa Village is the heart of the festival, celebrating authentic Emirati heritage through a vibrant program of activities for 2026. It stands as the ultimate family destination in Al Dhafra Region, offering a rich mix of cultural shows, family carnivals, and creative workshops, along with restaurants and cafes serving the best of Emirati and international cuisines.
The village features six main zones full of life — Liwa Souk, Auto, Meydan, Adrenaline, Shams Liwa and Wanasah — each offering a variety of daily activities and entertainment, including stage performances, interactive games, escape rooms, kids’ areas, and Emirati craft workshops. Visitors can also enjoy zipline adventures, the petting zoo, maze, and classic car exhibitions, along with shows and live music — all within an atmosphere that beautifully blends heritage and modernity, offering a memorable family experience that stands out as one of the season’s most exciting destinations.
Liwa Village Zones
A celebration of Emirati culture and craftsmanship, where visitors can explore artisans’ workshops alongside local dining and shopping experiences blending heritage with modern flair.
A zone of pure action and challenge — featuring Maze Runner, ziplines for both kids and adults, and pulseracing experiences that keep the excitement high from start to finish.
A zone for car enthusiasts of all ages! Featuring a classic car museum hosting a rotating selection of 30 iconic cars, a remotecontrol car activation and mini jeep obstacle track.
Liwa’s first Ferris wheel takes visitors on a panoramic journey over the golden desert dunes, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
The high-energy zone for thrill seekers, home to skill games, RC car challenges, horror rooms, and a kids 4x4 track, offering nonstop fun and friendly competition for teenagers aged 12-18.
A lively family zone filled with creativity and excitement — featuring age appropriate activities for children aged 1-12 , bringing families together through play, creativity, and unforgettable moments.
Meydan
Auto Souk
Wanasah
Shams Liwa
Adrenaline
Main Events of Liwa Village
SMASH ROOM & HORROR
ESCAPE ROOM
Step into two of Liwa’s most exhilarating attractions, where adrenaline, teamwork, and excitement meet. Break free, release energy, and embrace the thrill of immersive, heart-pounding challenges for all thrill seekers.
MAZE RUNNER
Find your way through twists and turns in this fun-filled desert maze. Designed for all ages, it blends challenge and adventure in an experience full of surprises.
ZIPLINE ADVENTURES
Fly across the village on exciting ziplines built for both adults and kids. Enjoy breathtaking views and the rush of soaring over Liwa’s vibrant landscape.
DESERT WATER KARTING
A unique water-based experience that brings speed and splashes to the desert. Feel the excitement of gliding across water in a thrilling twist to Liwa’s adventure lineup.
SOUK ARTISANS
Immerse yourself in Emirati craftsmanship with workshops on Burga, Dukhoon & Perfume, Henna, Sadu, Talli, Ajfa, and Gahwa, celebrating traditional artistry and culture.
CARNIVAL RIDES
Enjoy nonstop family fun with classic carnival attractions such as the Ferris Wheel, Carousel, Bumper Cars, and the thrilling Dragon Ride, bringing joy to all ages.
RC GAMING & SKILL GAMES
Test your accuracy and reflexes with a mix of interactive challenges, from basketball tosses and ring throws to classic carnival favorites — perfect for every member of the family.
PLAYPARK & PLAYSCAPE
Creative and adventurous zones for children to explore, climb, and play. Safe, colorful, and full of fun, these areas encourage imagination and discovery.
PETTING ZOO & PONY RIDE
Meet friendly animals and enjoy pony rides in a charming setting designed for kids and families to connect with nature and experience gentle adventures.
CLASSIC CARS EXHIBITION
A timeless collection of rare and iconic automobiles that celebrate the artistry and elegance of vintage car culture.
VILLAGE & SOUK STAGES
Two live stages showcasing daily entertainment — music, cultural performances, and shows that capture the energy and rhythm of Liwa Village.
MONSTER JAM
Location
Fri 26 - Sat 27 Dec
• Pit Party: 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
• Show #1: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
• Show #2: 9:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Get ready for a thrilling motorsport extravaganza on 26-27 December at the upcoming Monster Jam. Watch 5-ton trucks defy gravity in various competitions, including racing, freestyle, and skills contests. Experience jawdropping stunts with world-class freestyle motocross performances.
For just 15 AED more, attend the Monster Jam Pit Party to get up close to the vehicles, meet the drivers, and learn about truck preparation.
Book Now! www.platinumlist.net
Ticket includes entry to Liwa Village
LIWA SPORTS CLUB
Fri 12 Dec '25 – Sat 3 Jan '26
At the heart of the Liwa International Festival, the Liwa Sports Club delivers an actionpacked program that celebrates the UAE’s passion for speed, heritage, and endurance. The program includes the Tal Moreeb Car Championship, Freestyle and Drift Championships, Sand Stunt and Burnout Shows, Drag Race and UTV Track Races, and traditional favorites such as the Falcon and Pigeon Hunting Championships. Visitors can also enjoy the Electronic Showcase Championship, Boxing and Sand Wrestling matches, the Liwa Spartan Race, the Jetour Show, and the Sports Car Gathering.
Each championship and competition at the Liwa International Festival is designed to highlight a different dimension of skill, strength, and spirit:
Tal Moreeb Car Championship
Showcasing the power and precision of modified cars as drivers take on the challenge of climbing the world’s tallest sand dune.
Celebrating control, creativity, and performance behind the wheel through thrilling demonstrations of speed and agility.
Drag Race & UTV Circuit Championships
Testing speed, endurance, and teamwork across purpose-built desert tracks.
Electronic Showcase, Sand Wrestling & Boxing Championships
Promoting both modern and traditional sports, encouraging community participation and professional athleticism.
Liwa Spartan Race
Inspiring fitness, teamwork, and discipline through world-class obstacle challenges that push participants to their limits.
Liwa Sand Activities
Allowing visitors to experience off-road driving in a controlled environment, gaining real desert skills under expert supervision.
Falcon & Pigeon Hunting Championships
Preserving Emirati heritage through traditional hunting competitions that honor skill, patience, and precision.
Through these events, the Liwa Sport Club continues to promote sportsmanship, preserve national traditions, and position Tal Moreeb as a global destination for motorsport and cultural adventure.
MINI PAINTBALL TANKS
Location Fri 12 Dec '25 – Sat 3 Jan '26
Get ready for an action-packed adventure at Liwa Festival’s newest attraction — the Mini Paintball Tanks!
Climb into a custom-built mini tank armed with a low-impact paintball marker and take on the ultimate desert challenge. Drive, aim, and fire your way through a colourful battlefield of fun and competition in a safe, fully controlled arena.
It’s a thrilling, family-friendly experience that blends teamwork, excitement, and pure adrenaline — powered by real twin-engine tanks built for desert action.
No ordinary game. No ordinary ride. Just pure, paint-fuelled excitement!
CLASSIC CARS EXHIBITION
Location Fri 12 Dec '25 – Sat 3 Jan '26
Featuring a number of distinctive and unique classic cars, the exhibition serves as a gathering place for members of the classic car community to celebrate these rare historical treasures.
FREESTYLE DRIFT
Location
1st Championship Fri 12 - Sat 13 Dec
2nd Championship Mon 22 - Tue 23 Dec
6PM
The Freestyle Drift is an exciting event aimed at encouraging drivers to showcase their talents at the Liwa International Festival. Held at Tal Moreeb drift arena, it focuses on providing a safe environment for participants to demonstrate their skills while competing in front of experienced drivers and a lively audience. The championship presents a thrilling experience within a vibrant atmosphere, inspiring young individuals to engage in an organised and professional way.
Categories : (Includes both Champs)
• Day 1 : (T category)
• Day 2 : (N category , S category )
From 6PM until midnight
BIKE DRAG RACING
Location
Sun 14 Dec
6PM
The Liwa sand track is home to the ultimate in sand drag racing thrills, as quad bikes and buggies compete to take the title. Drag races take place across five different categories, offering participants and spectators an exhilarating and challenging experience in the stunning desert landscape.
Categories :
• UTV Stock
• UTV Modified
• Buggy
Race starts at 6PM
• 2 wheel stock
• Open Category
Participants are requested to be present one hour before the race for confirmation and collection of participating numbers.
FALCONRY
Location Mon 15 - Wed 17 Dec 7AM
Categories :
• Day 1 : (Owners - Farkh)
• Day 2 : (Professionals, Farkh)
• Day 3 : (Professionals, Jarnas)
From 7AM until 3PM
The Falconry Competition is a must-visit event for heritage enthusiasts and fans of unique competitions, where elite falconers compete in a championship that blends tradition with modern technology. The competition uses advanced electronic equipment, and the falcons are specially trained to compete on this type of track. Known as Al-Talwah, this thrilling challenge features the invitee waiting at the end of the track, waving a piece of prey to attract the falcon to cross the finish line in the shortest time possible.
SAND SHOW CHAMPIONSHIP
Location Fri 19 - Sat 20 Dec
Wed 28 - Thu 29 Dec
6PM
At the heart of Liwa's thrilling sports events, the massive Tal Moreeb sets the stage for sand stunt car competitions, attracting a large audience of motorsport professionals and adventure seekers. The excitement unfolds as each competitor showcases their skills on the dunes, from a powerful start and engine acceleration to reaching the top of the hill, all aiming to achieve top marks and secure a victory. Each year, the Liwa International Festival stands out by hosting the most intense sports challenges and spectacular competitions, making it a must-visit destination for car and desert sports enthusiasts in the region.
Categories :
• Day 1 : 6 Cylinder - Hilux
• Day 2 : 8 Cylinder
Race starts at 6PM
Participants are requested to be present one hour before the race for confirmation and collection of participating numbers.
LIWA UTV
Location 21 Dec
6PM
The UTV circuit delivers an adrenaline-pumping UTV race, where riders navigate their side-by-side vehicles on closed off-road tracks filled with challenging terrain. Featuring high jumps, sharp turns and tight corners, the track demands exceptional driving skills. Some races consist of short loops, intensifying the competition and adding even more excitement to the high energy racing environment.
Categories :
• UTV Turbo
• UTV Non-Turbo
From 6PM until midnight
PIGEON HUNT COMPETITION
Location Tue 23 - Wed 24 Dec 7AM until 3PM
In celebration of the ancestral skills and rich heritage of the United Arab Emirates, the Liwa International Festival hosts the Hedad Al-Hamam Championship for the sixth consecutive year. In this unique competition, falconers compete in hunting pigeons using falcons, showcasing the birds' speed and precision in capturing their prey. The Hedad Al-Hamam Championship highlights the beauty of the bond between the falconer and his falcon, reflecting the falcon's strength and the falconer's hunting skills, reviving the grandeur of hunting traditions and connecting new generations to this authentic heritage.
LIWA BURNOUT
Location
Thu 25 Dec
6PM
The Liwa Burnout Competition is a high-energy motorsport event where drivers showcase their vehicle control by performing burnouts, spinning their wheels to create donuts without the car moving forward. The goal is to impress the crowd and judges with powerful displays of muscle engines, noise and tire control, often pushing their vehicles to their limits. This competition attracts motorsport enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, providing a dramatic and adrenaline-filled atmosphere in the desert setting of Liwa.
Categories :
• Saloon and 4x4 cars
From 6PM until midnight
LIWA DRIFT
Location Fri 26 - Sat 27 Dec
6PM
Drifting is an exhilarating and demanding sport where drivers compete to perfect the art of drifting on specialised tracks, undergoing pro evaluations based on drift angle, driving line, continuity, speed and line precision. These criteria highlight the exceptional skill and strategy required, making drifting a truly unmatched experience. With various categories and levels, drifting races offer a thrilling mix of excitement and precision, drawing car enthusiasts and challengers from all over.
Categories :
• Stock category on Friday
• Professionals category on Saturday
From 6PM until midnight
ELECTRONIC FREESTYLE CHAMPIONSHIP
Liwa Walk
Tue 30 Dec
6PM
Liwa's Electronic and Digital Freestyle Drift Competition introduces an exciting new era of freestyle drift, merging cutting-edge technology with high-speed action. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Liwa desert, this unique competition combines traditional drift skills with digital precision, bringing fans an electrifying experience. Drivers will showcase their talents in digital simulations and real-time drift challenges, pushing the limits of freestyle drifting like never before.
Categories :
• First Category: 8 to 14 years
• Second Category: 15 years and up
From 6PM until midnight
TAL MOREEB CHAMPIONSHIP
Location 31 Dec - 3 Jan
6PM
The Tal Moreeb Car Championship is the crowning event of the Liwa International Festival, spanning three days at the festival's finale and featuring intense competition as cars race to achieve the best times across various categories. Held on sand dunes up to 300 meters high, with slopes reaching a steep 50 degrees, Liwa's natural marvels have become a favourite destination for car enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. The championship delivers peak excitement, blending skill and power in one of the most challenging car races in the region.
Categories : Thu
Wed
• Electric Vehicles
• Hybrid Fri
• 6 Cylinder Turbo
• 8 Cylinder NOS
• 8 Cylinder turbo
• 6 Cylinder NOS Sat
• Open Gategory
• Stock
• Hilux
EXTREME MUDFEST
Location Fri 19 - Sat 20 Dec
For the first time ever, the Liwa International Festival presents an unprecedented event “Extreme MudFest” taking place on 19 and 20 December, bringing the biggest and most thrilling motorsport spectacle amid the desert sands!
Get ready for two days of excitement and adrenaline as the wildest offroad races take over Liwa, featuring Quads, Mega Trucks, Rock Crawlers, UTVs, and the daring J-Hook Races. Don’t miss the ultimate challenge — the Bounty Hole, where the power of machines and the courage of drivers are pushed to the absolute limit!
Before the races begin, meet the champions up close at the actionpacked Pit Party, snap amazing photos, explore the giant vehicles, and get ready for the adventure ahead!
LIWA NIGHTLY SHOWS
Tal Moreeb
Fri 12 Dec '25 – Sat 3 Jan '26
Experience a breathtaking fusion of art, film, and technology as the world’s largest sand dune becomes a living screen. The Liwa Nightly Shows presents original, animated, and cinematic projections that celebrate Liwa’s culture, and the adrenaline-fueled spirit of its festival. Enhanced by laser sand lights, this one-of-a-kind spectacle transforms the desert night into a celebration of storytelling, identity, and wonder.
FIREWORKS
Tal Moreeb
Fri 12 & Wed 31 Dec '25, Sat 3 Jan '26 & Weekends
8PM
This year, the Liwa International Festival stands out with its spectacular fireworks displays, that bring joy and excitement. These nightly shows are held throughout the festival, featuring vibrant shapes and designs inspired by the festival's spirit and events. The dazzling fireworks create a magical atmosphere that highlights the uniqueness of the event and captivates the audience with breathtaking scenes.
DRONE SHOWS
Tal Moreeb Fri 12 Dec '25 – Sat 3 Jan '26
8PM
The sky above Liwa’s sands shines in a mesmerising show that captivates the eyes and awakens the dreams. As night falls over the desert, drones paint the horizon with a magical symphony of colour and rhythm — telling Liwa’s timeless story and celebrating its beauty and proud heritage. Look up as the sky transforms into a living canvas pulsing with wonder and creativity, where threads of light blend with the desert sands — carrying you on a dreamlike journey between reality and imagination... between nostalgia and pride... between Liwa’s light and its everlasting spirit.
NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATION
Location Wed 31 Dec
The Liwa New Year’s Eve celebration is a colourful and festive event that attracts both locals and tourists. Against the stunning desert backdrop, the festivities feature fireworks, cultural performances, live music and traditional dancing, creating an atmosphere filled with joy and excitement.
As midnight approaches, the sky dazzles with impressive fireworks displays launched from the peak of a dramatic dune, accompanied by a countdown that adds a magical touch to the occasion. Families and friends gather to celebrate the New Year together, enjoying delicious local cuisine and engaging in various activities suitable for all ages. This event not only marks the beginning of the New Year but also highlights the rich heritage and community spirit of Liwa, making it a truly unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
LIWA SIGN
Location 24/7
Experience the magic surrounding the Liwa Sign, where excitement and celebration come together in the heart of Al Dhafra Region.
Enjoy a lively atmosphere with F&B stands, spectacular fireworks illuminating the sky during the opening ceremony, New Year's Eve and weekends, and a daily laser show that brings the Liwa Sign to life in a dazzling display of colour and light.
LIWA FORTS
Mon 1 Dec '25 – Fri 9 Jan '26
(Cultural experience from 13 December – 3 January)
Explore Liwa’s rich cultural heritage through the Liwa Forts Activation, where four historic forts open their doors to celebrate the cultural identity of the region.
Across Mezaira'a, Al Meel, Qutuf forts and Mougab Watchtower, visitors can explore a wide range of cultural and community-based experiences — including cultural cafes, traditional food stalls, pop-up heritage shops, and home-based business outlets.
The forts come alive with local flavors, crafts, and authentic Emirati products created by homegrown artisans and entrepreneurs. The initiative highlights the region’s living heritage while supporting small local businesses and creative talent.
Whether you’re exploring for the first time or returning to relive the charm of Liwa, the Forts Activation offers a meaningful experience that connects visitors to the traditions, craftsmanship, and community spirit of Al Dhafra.
Mezaira’a Fort: Built 1800 CE and re-built in 1988
Location
Mougab Tower: Built between 1922 and 1926 and restored in 2005
Location
Qutuf Fort: Built around the year 1925 and reconstructed in 1990
Location
Al Meel Fort: Built around the year 1816 and reconstructed in 1984
Location
SPORTS AMENITIES
Location 24/7
The management of the Liwa International Festival places great importance on providing all means of entertainment, while also prioritizing the health and well-being of its visitors. Therefore, a large area has been dedicated to a variety of sports fields and facilities to meet the needs of the public. This area includes courts for padel tennis, football, volleyball, and basketball, as well as a dedicated children›s and family area, and a gymnasium, offering visitors the opportunity to exercise and enjoy a comprehensive experience that combines entertainment and physical activity.
Categories :
• 8 Padel Courts
• 2 Volleyball Courts
• Basketball Court
• Football Field
• Kids Play Area
TAL MOREEB MARKET
Location 24/7
Tal Moreeb Market is your one-stop destination for all essential supplies. It offers everything visitors to Liwa International Festival might need, from camping gear and clothing to kitchen accessories, phone accessories, and more. At Moreeb Market, you will find all the essentials to ensure a complete and enjoyable experience throughout the festival.
TAL MOREEB DUNE PARK
Location 4PM
This lively park features a stage for competitions and events, along with outdoor seating that captures the charm of traditional heritage markets. It offers comfortable gathering areas and a dedicated space for families and children, where kids can play freely in a safe environment. This welcoming atmosphere blends fun with the making of lovely memories.
LIWA WALK
Location 24/7
Liwa Walk is a unique and vibrant destination, featuring well-known shops and a marketplace showcasing top brands. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the walkway, soaking in the lively atmosphere. It runs alongside a bustling food court, offering a diverse selection of restaurants with a wide range of food and drink options. Liwa Walk also hosts various events and competitions, making it the perfect spot for individuals and families to enjoy fun-filled moments and make unforgettable memories.
AL DHAFRAH SPORTS & CULTURAL CLUB
Location
Fri 12 Dec '25 – Sat 3 Jan '26
(In collaboration with Abu Dhabi Sports Council)
Stay active during the Liwa International Festival with the Al Dhafra Sports & Cultural Club, held in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. The club invites visitors to enjoy a modern and fully equipped indoor gym, offering a safe and comfortable environment for all ages and fitness levels.
In addition, the club operates a dedicated VIP camp within the festival site, hosting official delegations and guests with premium hospitality and personalised services.
Whether you’re an athlete looking to train, a visitor wishing to unwind, or someone simply exploring the festival, Al Dhafra Sports & Cultural Club offers the perfect place to combine fitness, comfort, and Emirati hospitality in the heart of Tal Moreeb.
AL DHAFRAH REGION MUNICIPALITY
Location Fri 12 Dec '25 - Sat 3 Jan '26
Experience the welcoming spirit of the Municipality of Al Dhafra at the Liwa International Festival, where culture, community, and creativity come together.
Visit the Municipal Majlis to enjoy authentic Emirati hospitality and engaging conversations, or head to the Municipal Stage for live shows and family entertainment throughout the festival.
Families can explore the Kids’ Fun Zone, filled with games and activities, and discover the Heritage Village & Productive Families Market, where local artisans and small businesses showcase handmade crafts and Emirati products.
The municipality also organises awareness and inspection campaigns, including the joint initiative “Clean Our Desert Is Our Responsibility,” promoting environmental care and community pride.
Essential on-site services — such as firewood distribution, and decorative lighting installations — further enrich the atmosphere across Tal Moreeb.
Through its diverse activities, the Municipality of Al Dhafra continues to connect with the community, promote civic engagement, and add warmth and colour to the Liwa International Festival experience.
ADNOC ENERGY CAMP
Location
Fri 12 Dec '25 - Sat 3 Jan '26
In the heart of Liwa’s desert, ADNOC Energy Camp captures the essence of national identity and the spirit of sustainability and innovation, offering an experience that reflects ADNOC’s vision of honoring the past while embracing the future.
Through educational and interactive pavilions celebrating our Emirati culture, visitors embark on a journey that blends energy, knowledge, and community connection, showcasing ADNOC’s role as a proud partner in fostering national pride and shaping a future deeply rooted in the values of the UAE.
ADNOC Energy Camp in Liwa, where community activations meet the spirit of our nation.
MOBILE APP
The mobile app serves as your main gateway to the Liwa International Festival, providing all the services and information for competitors, visitors and businesses.
- Drifting grandstand
- Tal Moreeb grandstand
Competition Ticketing Races
- Pre-registration
- View racing terms
- Live updates
Commercials
- Cafes
- Restaurants
- Juices and sweets
- Workshop
- Barber shop
- Market space
- Investment space
- Exhibition space
- Shisha Cafe
- Laundry
- Car wash
- Supermarket
Information
- Event information
- Request a service
- Festival guide
- Racing results
Reservation
Daily reservation:
- Liwa Royal Camp
- Liwa Premium Camp
- Individuals & Families Camp
- RV Parking
Full duration reservation:
- VIP Camp
- Mini VIP Camp
- RV private camp
Register your pitch in a free camping area.
FESTIVAL SITE SERVICES
• Commercial showrooms
• Restaurants & shopping area
• 24-hour medical clinic
• Free parking
FESTIVAL SITE SERVICES
• Petrol station
• Sleeping tents
• ATM
• Mosque
• Supermarkets
• EV Charging Stations
SAFETY & SECURITY INSTRUCTIONS
For visitors of Liwa International Festival
For your safety and the safety of all visitors, please adhere to the following instructions while in race and event areas:
• Reckless vehicle or motorcycle stunts are strictly prohibited near campsites or public areas to prevent accidents.
• Ensure the track path is clear and safe before ascending or descending the Hill Dune (Tal Moreeb) to avoid potential hazards, danger or accidents.
• Helmets must be worn when riding motorcycles. Children under 18 years old are strictly prohibited from riding motorcycles unless under direct parental supervision and only in designated areas.
• Avoid creating loud or disturbing noises with vehicles or motorcycles near campsites.
• All traffic safety rules must be followed, including wearing seat belts, using headlights when driving at night, and adhering to roads speed limits.
• Motorcycles of all types are not allowed on paved road (public streets).
• The use of any type of aircraft, including drones or gliders, is strictly prohibited without prior authorisation from the relevant authorities.
Your cooperation with security personnel and event supervisors is appreciated to ensure everyone’s safety.
Getting to Liwa International Festival
From Al Ghuwaifat Border
Crossing to the Liwa International Festival
Your gateway to the desert’s grand stage
Crossing into the UAE from the Saudi border marks the beginning of a scenic desert journey leading all the way to Liwa. The road will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Al Dhafra Region, with numerous stops and convenient services along the way. Travellers can enjoy modern amenities, try local flavours, and discover Emirati heritage before arriving at the heart of the Liwa International Festival.
Hotels in Al Dhafra Region
Click on the hotel name to open the location
Visitors to the Liwa International Festival can enjoy a range of premium accommodation options offering comfort, luxury, and stunning views:
• Bab Al Nujoum Liwa: A unique luxury camping experience surrounded by the tranquillity of the desert (12 km from the festival).
• Western Hotel Liwa: Located in the heart of the Liwa Oasis with desert views (28 km from the festival).
• Liwa Hotel: A desert resort at the gateway to the Empty Quarter, overlooking the red dunes and Liwa Oasis (29 km from the festival).
• Al Dhafra Resort, Vignette Collection: A luxurious resort combining elegance with authentic traditional architecture (88 km from the festival).
• Western Hotel – Ma dinat Zayed: A boutique resort, located away from the hustle and bustle of the city. (90 km from the festival).
• Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort: A luxurious desert resort located in the heart of the Empty Quarter (96 km from the festival).
• Al Dhafra Beach Bay (Rotana): An elegant beachfront hotel offering a blend of entertainment and exceptional dining experiences (156 km from the festival).
• Bab Al Nujoom Camp, Al Mughirah - Al Marfa: A unique and luxurious camping experience (159 km from the festival).
• Western Ghayathi Hotel: A peaceful and comfortable stay (180 km from the festival).
• Al Rimal Hotel: Modern comfort in a convenient location in Al Dhannah (220 km from the festival).
Along the route there are several convenient shopping points along the road where visitors can purchase basic necessities and local products:
• Abu Dhabi Duty Free – at the Al Ghuwaifat border crossing.
• Al Dhafra Cooperative Society Supermarket
• Liwa Centre and local shops – in the Mazira’a area (Liwa).
• ADNOC Express Shops – available at ADNOC service stations on E1 and E45.
Along the road to Liwa, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and rest areas offering a selection of delicious cuisines: Supermarkets and Convenience Stores Restaurants or Cafes
• Al Ghuwaifat: Duty Free Cafe, ADNOC Camp.
• Liwa / Mezaira’a: Liwa Hotel Restaurant, Bab Al Nojoum Restaurant, Local Cafes.
The Al Dhafra region is home to a number of cultural and historical landmarks that reflect the rich heritage and history of the UAE, including: Cultural Landmarks
• Al Dhafra Fort
• Yabbana Fort
• Meel Fort
• Mezaira›a Fort
• Qutuf Fort
• Dhafeer Tower
• Hayla Tower
• Mougab Tower
• Marya Al Gharbiya Tower
• Umm Hisn Tower
Other Experiences
There are several distinctive landmarks along the road to the Liwa International Festival which make for ideal photo and short break stops. These include:
• Liwa Sign: A Guinness World Record-holding landmark that welcomes visitors to the Liwa region and serves as a perfect spot for photo.
• Al Mughira Beach: A tranquil coastal area with beautiful sea views.
There are several ADNOC service stations located between the Al Ghuwaifat border crossing and Liwa. Gas stations
• ADNOC – Al Ghuwaifat (838) – Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi Emirate
• ADNOC – Al Sila (839) – Al Sila, Al Dhafra Municipality, Abu Dhabi Emirate
• ADNOC – Liwa/Muzairah (Liwa Oasis Area), Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi Emirate
The following hospitals ensure access to medical services during the journey: Hospitals and Emergency Centres
• Liwa Hospital – The main hospital in the Liwa region, providing Emergency and Advanced Care services
• Al Sila Hospital – Providing comprehensive medical services near Al Ghuwaifat border crossing
• Ghayathi Hospital
• Al Dhannah Hospital
• Madinat Zayed Hospital
• Al Marfa Hospital
• Valid passport
• Driver’s licence
• Vehicle registration (Mulkiya)
• Valid GCC vehicle insurance
• UAE entry visa (depending on nationality) Required documents
From Al Buraimi Border Crossing to the Liwa International Festival
Your gateway to the desert’s grand stage
Crossing into the UAE from Oman border marks the beginning of a scenic desert journey leading all the way to Liwa. The road will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of Al Dhafra Region, with numerous stops and convenient services along the way. Travellers can enjoy modern amenities, try local flavours, and discover Emirati heritage before arriving at the heart of the Liwa International Festival.
Hotels in Al Ain
Click on the hotel name to open the location
Visitors to the Liwa International Festival can enjoy a range of excellent accommodation options offering comfort, luxury, and stunning views as they pass through the Al Ain region:
• Ayla Hotel: A modern hotel perfect for a comfortable and tranquil stay (345 km from the festival).
• Telal Resort: A luxurious desert resort that combines the charm of heritage with modern elegance (295 km from the festival).
• Aloft Al Ain: A 4-star hotel located in Al Ain Square, the heart of the oasis city (340 km from the festival).
• Rotana Hotel: 5-star hotel conveniently situated close to the city centre (345 km from the festival).
Retail Stores
Along the route there are several shopping and retail options in Al Muwaiji area, near UAE University in the Al Ain Region, offering supermarkets and convenience stores for quick stops before continuing the journey to Liwa.
Restaurants or Cafes:
There are several dining and cafe options in Al Muwaiji area, near UAE University in the Al Ain Region. Travelers can stop here to enjoy a meal or a quick coffee before continuing their journey towards Liwa.
The Al Ain region is rich in heritage and culture, home to fascinating landmarks that reflect the deep history and vibrant creativity of the United Arab Emirates: Cultural Experiences:
• Al Ain Museum
• Bait Mohammed Bin Khalifa
• Qasr Al Muwaiji
• Al Jahili Fort
• Al Ain Oasis
Gas stations from Oman border to Liwa:
There are several ADNOC service stations along the way from the Al Buraimi border crossing to Liwa, ensuring a smooth journey with convenient places to refuel, rest, and purchase refreshments:
• ADNOC – Al Khurair (757)
• ADNOC – Al Khurais (759)
• ADNOC – Al Qou’ (946)
• ADNOC – Liwa (977)
Hospitals and Emergency Centres
Several hospitals and medical centres with 24/7 services are located along the route, ensuring a safe journey:
• NMC Hospital
• Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Mohammed Medical Centre
• Tawam Hospital
• Burjeel Hospital
Required Documents
To cross the border from Al Buraimi into the UAE, travellers must ensure they carry the following documents:
