Abu Dhabi: The Liwa International Festival 2025, one of region’s largest events, kicked off in Abu Dhabi on Friday.
Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) in collaboration with Liwa Sports Club, this famous festival showcases a rich line-up of motorsport competitions, traditional events, and recreational activities, it is an unmissable celebration. Here is all your need to know about the Liwa Festival 2025, including its schedule, location, and more.
About the Festival
The Liwa International Festival 2025 invites motorsport enthusiasts, families, and visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi. The festival promises to be a memorable experience, centred around Moreeb Dune — one of the tallest and most challenging dunes in the region. Standing at 300 meters high with a 50-degree incline, Moreeb Dune offers a thrilling challenge for both professionals and enthusiasts.
This year, the festival is set to be the largest in its history, featuring the return of Liwa Village and an exciting blend of adventure, culture, and entertainment. Activities include the Monster Jam Championship, car stunt competitions, hot air balloon displays, camel races, live concerts, and much more.
Camping For those looking for an extended desert getaway, the festival offers a range of camping options. Visitors can rent RVs, stay in luxurious desert-style tents, or bring their own camping gear to public camping areas. The event combines rich Emirati traditions with modern-day excitement, making it an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Moreeb Dune
The Heart of the Festival Moreeb Dune is renowned as one of the tallest sand dunes in the world. Standing at 300 meters high and with a 50-degree incline, it is the perfect location for thrilling motorsport events. Its dramatic landscape has made it a popular destination for filmmakers, further cementing its place as a symbol of adventure in the region.
Festival Schedule
Liwa Sports Club’s vision is to transform Al Dhafra into a global Centre for sports events and international festivals. This year’s festival will feature a captivating line-up of activities, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone. Full details of the events and competitions are available on the official Liwa Sports Club website.
Ensuring Safety
AD Police’s role The General Command of Abu Dhabi Police is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the Liwa International Festival from December 13, 2024, to January 4, 2025. Brigadier General Hamdan Saif Al Mansouri, Director of the Al Dhafra Region Police Directorate, emphasised the police’s proactive efforts to maintain a safe environment for festival attendees.
Abu Dhabi Police, in coordination with strategic partners, will oversee traffic flow and provide enhanced security during the event. Key areas of focus include ensuring traffic safety, promoting adherence to driving regulations, and managing public safety at the festival site. The festival will also feature awareness campaigns about safe driving and the proper use of motorcycles.
Cultural and entertainment activities
The Liwa International Festival offers an exciting mix of cultural, sporting, and entertainment activities. The event features Liwa Village, a vibrant space celebrating authentic Emirati heritage with traditional performances, crafts, and food. Visitors can explore a craft market, enjoy musical performances, participate in family activities, and shop at local vendor stalls showcasing Emirati products.
Traditional sports
In addition to the motorsport events, the festival highlights traditional Emirati sports such as camel racing, falconry, and horse racing. Visitors can also take part in a wide range of desert activities, including pigeon hunting and shooting competitions, creating an authentic Emirati experience.
