Liwa International Festival 2027 to Transform Al Dhafra’s Desert Landscape into a Celebration of Heritage and Entertainment
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the reimagined Liwa International Festival 2027 will unfold across the iconic Liwa desert from 11 December 2026 to 2 January 2027, presenting an expansive programme of heritage experiences, motorsport championships, entertainment spectacles and family activities.
The forthcoming Liwa International Festival 2027 represents a significant evolution of a cherished celebration that has captivated visitors for more than two decades. Held majestically around Tal Moreeb, the UAE’s tallest dune rising to more than 300 metres, the festival has developed into a distinguished gathering where Emirati heritage, motorsport prowess, entertainment excellence and inclusive family experiences converge in seamless harmony.
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi orchestrates this expansive undertaking in collaboration with Liwa Sports Club, Al Dhafra Municipality, Abu Dhabi Police, Abu Dhabi Media Network, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, and Al Dhafra Hospitals – Seha. The previous iteration welcomed more than 700,000 visitors across 23 days and garnered recognition as the Best Festival of the Year at the Middle East Events Awards 2026.
An Imaginatively Reimagined Festival Village
Liwa Village stands as the beating heart of the festival, presenting more than half of its attractions either newly created or thoughtfully reimagined. Visitors will encounter exhilarating experiences including the Circus Swinger, Tagada and Space Tower, whilst engaging with activities such as Play Strike, Ninja Challenge, Pixel Run and Desert Heist. The Drift Trike, Target Shooting and Climb Quest further enrich the entertainment landscape. The Bungee Jump makes its inaugural festival appearance, whilst cherished returning attractions including the Ferris Wheel, Bumper Cars, Slingshot and Booster ensure continuity of beloved experiences.
World-Class Entertainment and Motorsport Excellence
The festival will welcome Nitro Circus on 19 and 20 December 2026, presenting 15 international athletes performing extraordinary displays of freestyle motocross, bicycle motocross, choreographed performances and pyrotechnics across three spectacular shows. The occasion marks the troupe’s festival debut, promising an unforgettable evening of athletic artistry.
A comprehensive motorsport programme, organised by Liwa Sports Club, spans the festival duration with Freestyle Display competitions, Motorbike Drag Racing, the Falcon Race, Sand Freestyle Displays, the Liwa UTV Track, Traditional Pigeon Racing, the Liwa Burnout Challenge and Liwa Drift. The programme culminates in the prestigious Tal Moreeb Car Championship finale, extending from 30 December through 2 January 2027.
Participants may also engage in the Liwa Sign Climb Challenge, a cycling race, the Liwa Festival Community Run, a padel tournament and a dedicated fitness tour, accommodating enthusiasts of varied sporting interests.
Profound Celebration of Emirati Heritage and Traditions
Presented by Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, the Heritage Village draws inspiration from traditional Emirati neighbourhoods, offering demonstrations and hands-on activities that introduce families to the nuances of traditional Emirati life, customs and practices. The House of Poetry and Poets showcases Nabati poetry and its enduring significance in articulating community values, experiences and traditions.
The Falconry Tent presents live displays and demonstrations covering the raising, training and care of falcons, with workshops enabling young visitors to craft model falcon hoods. The traditional games and heritage experiences area features interactive activities including Teelah, Karabi, tug of war, camel riding and palm-climbing simulation, alongside workshops in palm-leaf product manufacturing and weaving.
The Emirati Majlis introduces visitors to the profound social etiquette inherent in Emirati culture, including welcoming rituals and the role of the majlis in preserving customs across generations. A live workshop explores Emirati Gahwa presentation and the cherished traditions of Emirati hospitality.
Expanding Experiences Across the Region
Beyond the principal festival site, regional activations encompass the Liwa Sign landmark, retail and dining establishments at Dhafeer Fort, Al Meel Fort and Al Yabana Fort. Traditional Emirati crafts flourish at Khanour Fort, whilst Mezairaa Fort presents a cultural experience inspired by Liwa’s distinguished history.
A dedicated festival application will facilitate visitor engagement, enabling exploration of the event calendar, registration for camping and recreational vehicle parking, and investigation of commercial participation opportunities.
Further information regarding Liwa International Festival 2027 is available at Abu Dhabi Media Office