5 Must-Do Experiences To Kick Off 2025 At Liwa Festival

by Dara Morgan

5 Must-Do Experiences To Kick Off 2025 At Liwa Festival

28 Dec 2024

The desert is calling, and the Liwa International Festival 2025 is your ultimate destination to kick off the new year. With adrenaline-fueled motorsports, cultural showcases, and family-friendly fun, this 23-day celebration in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region runs until January 4, 2025. Here is your guide to the top must-do experiences.

Welcome 2025 with a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration

Start 2025 with a bang! On December 31, ring in the New Year at the Desert’s Grand Stage.

Live Concert at Tarab Liwa: Join legendary artists Abadi Al Johar and Rahma Riad as they perform live, leading up to the countdown to midnight. Their captivating performances will set the tone for an unforgettable night. Book your tickets now and start your celebrations off at Liwa Village.

Dazzling Fireworks: At midnight head to the Iconic Tal Moreeb and watch the desert sky come alive with a spectacular fireworks display.

Cultural Vibes: Experience the rich heritage of the UAE with traditional performances and a vibrant celebration of Emirati culture.

The festivities continue well into the new year, offering a perfect blend of excitement and tradition.

Photo: Edewaa Foster

Watch the Great Moreeb Dune Car Championship

From January 2–4, motorsport enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies will gather to witness the festival’s crown jewel: the Moreeb Dune Car Championship. Drivers will conquer 300-metre-high dunes with slopes as steep as 50 degrees in thrilling categories:

— January 2: 6-cylinder turbo, 8-cylinder NOS, and electric vehicles.

— January 3: 8-cylinder turbo and 6-cylinder NOS.

— January 4: Open categories, stock vehicles, and Hilux races.

Experience the Electronic Freestyle Championship

Combine innovation and skill at the cutting-edge Electronic Freestyle Drift Competition on January 1. This unique event blends real-world drifting with advanced digital simulations, offering a thrilling mix of speed, precision, and creativity for all ages.

Explore Liwa Walk and Liwa Market

Liwa Walk: At Liwa Walk, enjoy a vibrant mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Indulge in mouthwatering street food from buzzing food truck zones and explore unique local finds while soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Liwa Market: Shop for camping gear, quirky keepsakes, and festival essentials while soaking in the lively atmosphere of races, fireworks, and live performances.

Thrills, family fun, and Souk delights at Liwa Village

Liwa Village offers something for everyone, from heart-pounding activities to cultural and family-friendly attractions:

Adrenaline Zone: Get your pulse racing with exhilarating carnival rides and challenge-based skill games designed for thrill-seekers.

Meydan Zone: Dive into the ultimate gaming experience, featuring laser tag, a shooting range, and a thrilling 4×4 off-road track.

Wanasa Zone: Perfect for families, this hotspot features the enchanting Night Oasis, a petting zoo, and the spine-chilling Horror Escape Room, offering fun and adventure for all ages.

Shams Liwa Ferris Wheel: Soar high above the dunes and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the desert from this must-visit attraction.

Souk: Immerse yourself in Emirati culture with the Souk’s traditional crafts, local delicacies, and one-of-a-kind shopping experiences. It is the perfect place to find unique souvenirs and enjoy the warmth of Emirati hospitality.

Tarab Liwa: Experience live music and concerts featuring some of the region’s most talented artists, making Liwa Village the cultural hub of the festival.

Plan your visit

Getting there: Drive via Sheikh Zayed Road (E10) toward Sweihan/Al-Ain and follow signs for Liwa. Ample free parking is available on-site.

Stay overnight: Truly immerse yourself in the festival Experience. Choose from camping under the stars, glamping options, or luxurious stays at Bab Al-Nojoum Bateen Liwa, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort, and more.

Don’t miss out!

With so much to experience, make the most of the final days of Liwa Festival 2025. Visit liwainternationalfestival.ae to learn more or book your tickets through abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net today!

@liwafest @liwavillage

by Dara Morgan