The Liwa International Festival attracted over 700,000 visitors who enjoyed a packed program of events combining culture, motorsports, and family entertainment. The event was held over 23 days, from December 12 to January 3, in the vicinity of Tal Meraf, the highest sand dune in the country. It welcomed camping, desert adventure, and speed racing enthusiasts, as well as families, highlighting the unique tourism and cultural assets of the Al Dhafra region. Liwa Village was the vibrant heart of the festival and a destination for families and friends, attracting 274,440 visitors—a 26% increase from the previous edition. The village saw significant expansion, featuring five main zones that offered a wider range of interactive experiences, from entertainment, cultural, and artistic shows and creative workshops to carnival games and recreational activities designed for all ages. Motorsports and motorcycling were a key focus of the festival, with a 47% increase in participation in its races and championships compared to the last edition. The Liwa International Festival once again affirmed its role in reviving authentic aspects of Emirati heritage. Through a series of competitions and championships in traditional sports, along with cultural experiences held at Tal Meraf and other prominent historical sites, the festival showcased the antiquity of the Al Dhafra region, the spirit of its community, and its living traditions. It is worth noting that the Liwa International Festival (Liwa 2027) will be held from December 11 to January 2 of the upcoming year.
Liwa International Festival Attracts Over 700,000 Visitors
The Liwa International Festival in the desert welcomed over 700,000 guests. Visitors enjoyed cultural events, motorsports races, and family activities, showcasing the heritage of the Al Dhafra region.