The Liwa International Festival 2026 began on Friday in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi with a visually impressive opening event. Marking the start of the festival, Burj Khalifa in Dubai was illuminated in red, showcasing the festival’s logo in a breathtaking display. Light messages appeared on the tower announcing the festival’s return with greater excitement, expanded cultural programs, modern entertainment, and family-friendly attractions.
The opening ceremony was attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Ain Region. Visitors enjoyed a striking combination of sound, laser effects, and drone shows that formed eye-catching shapes such as 4×4 vehicles, falcons, helmets, and hot air balloons in the sky. The celebration concluded with a large-scale fireworks display over the sand dunes.
Hundreds of motorsport enthusiasts lined up with their four-wheel-drive vehicles to test their skills on Tal Moreeb Hill, one of the most thrilling attractions of the Liwa Festival. Liwa Village was also bustling with activities celebrating Emirati heritage, offering family entertainment, creative workshops, and live performances suitable for all ages.
Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the Liwa Festival presents a diverse lineup of family entertainment, cultural experiences, and high-adrenaline motorsports. The event features speed races, dune driving challenges, freestyle shows, drifting and drag competitions, and, for the first time, the Extreme Mode Fest driving challenge.
Additional highlights of the Liwa Festival include falconry competitions, sand wrestling and boxing, hot air balloon flights, drone shows, and weekend fireworks. Visitors can also enjoy a wide variety of authentic Emirati and international cuisine. The festival reaches its peak with a special New Year’s Eve celebration featuring live music concerts and spectacular fireworks, while the Tal Moreeb car races add an extra dose of excitement to the end of 2025.
