LIWA International Festival 2026 – Event Schedules, Fireworks, Tickets and More

The spirit of heritage meets the joy of celebration – that’s LIWA International Festival, held annually in the stunning Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi. From Emirati heritage and family attractions to live entertainment, culinary delights and adrenaline-pumping fun, LIWA Fest doesn’t fail to amaze its guests. On top of it all, you meet some of the most delightful people, catch incredible scenery on your journey from the heart of Abu Dhabi to LIWA and make lasting memories.

Doesn’t it sound like a complete package? Your experience at the latest LIWA International Festival is going to be much more magical than you currently expect it to be. The festival kicked off on 12 December 2025 and is going to continue amusing and entertaining its visitors till 3 January 2026. This means, you can celebrate Christmas and NYE in one of the most popular events in Abu Dhabi, amidst scenic landscapes and rich culture.

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This year, the LIWA International Festival 2026 has found some interesting additions, besides the returning gem – Monster Jam. Don’t forget to check out Skyline, Desert Rally and Mudfest, among other things to do. Make sure to get your tickets on time. Be part of thrilling experiences, timeless traditions and activities for people of all ages and preferences. Groove to Yara’s angelic voice on 29 December and let Viny Roumy tempt you to attend an electrifying night on 19 December. That’s LIWA Fest for all of us – magical, eternal and memorable.

LIWA International Festival 2026 at a Glance

Modern celebration meets the desert soul at LIWA International Festival 2026. Experience 23 days of music, excitement and heritage. LIWA Fest brings families and friends together – letting each corner of the event space scream energy and colour. You can definitely expect a lot of unforgettable moments. Make sure to click beautiful pictures to reminisce about your experience at Lia.

Happening from 12 December 2025 to 3 January 2026, LIWA International Festival 2026 is being held in the heart of the Al Dhafra region. This is one of the most highly anticipated events in Abu Dhabi and makes sure to keep its guests seeking more all the time. Al Dhafra is extremely beautiful and the largest region in the UAE capital. Your bucket list item of seeing the desert life up close is going to be fulfilled as the iconic Empty Quarter desert covers most of this land. From dune bashing and camping in Al Dhafra to safaris in Sir Bani Yas Island, there are a lot of memorable things to do in Al Dhafra.

You can combine your LIWA International Festival trip and Al Dhafra tourism together for the most magical experiences. The ongoing festival features cultural sports, family-friendly activities, motorsports and nightly performances. You can find something spectacular to see and do every single day. Isn’t it so tempting? Don’t diddle-daddle anymore. Get your LIWA Festival tickets as soon as possible and have the most engaging experience of your lifetime.

LIWA International Festival 2026 – Six Zones, Six Experiences

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From the moment you enter LIWA International Festival, you are going to encounter six vibrant zones. Each zone offers a different atmosphere and experience. Meet excitement, creativity and culture in their best possible forms at the fest. Each zone you enter is bound by a different story and each moment is bound to become a lasting memory.

There are six zones at LIWA International Festival, including Shams Lia, the heart of the village. You get panoramic glimpses of Al Dhafra from the top of a grand Ferris Wheel. Capture this image and keep it as a lasting piece of memory. Wanasa, on the other hand, features Maze Runner Challenge, Skill Games, Art Hub and Fun Park and Little Wonders. Each part of this space is full of laughter and joy. Your little ones are going to adore this experience. Next, try out Meydan, the hub of all things exciting and adrenaline-pumping. The House of Horror offers a thrilling experience and the Smash Room lets you release your energy in a fun and safe setting. Make sure to explore the Village Stage for entertainment, music and laughter.

The other three zones at LIWA International Festival 2026 include, Souk, Adrenaline and Auto. Souk takes you to the heart of Emirati heritage, keeping you close to stories of the past, rich traditions and traditional crafts. On the other hand, Adrenaline is about thrill-seekers. Meet non-stop energy, Carnival Rides, Skill Games and all things exciting. You also get to relax a bit at the food court, offering a great selection of delicacies. Last but not least, step into Auto, one of the most important zones at LIWA Festival Abu Dhabi. This zone is about admiring the Classic Cars that redefine craftsmanship and timeless design. Ideal for both kids and adults, this zone lets you indulge in a nostalgic experience and be part of thrilling things to do at the 4×4 Track.

LIWA International Festival 2026 Events Schedule

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Starting from the opening ceremony on 12 December 2025 to the grand celebrations set till 3 January 2026, the ongoing LIWA International Festival is no less than a stunner. You can indulge in some of the best experiences here, including adrenaline-pumping, culturally-rich and entertaining. Let’s take a deeper look into all that LIWA Festival 2026 is offering its guests, including spectacular NYE fireworks, Classic Cars Exhibition, Monster Jam, Moreeb Dune Car Championship, Public Dune Bashing and Hot Air Balloon events. Each day at LIWA Village promises the best memories; therefore, do not miss out.

In addition to these stunning LIWA International Festival 2026 events, you also get access to other major parts of the area, such Mureeb Dune Park, Mureeb Dune Market, Exhibition Park, Sports Amenities and more. The ongoing festival has brought a limited period of memorable moments and nonstop entertainment. Make sure to book your tickets as soon as possible.

Top Things to Do at LIWA International Festival 2026

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1. Back by popular demand – Monster Jam

Modern celebration meets the desert soul at LIWA Festival Abu Dhabi 2026. There are a lot of incredible things to do at this key event in the UAE capital. Make sure to check out Monster Jam, returning from 26-27 December 2025. Back by popular demand after its debut in the previous season, Monster Jam is a beautiful experience of a couple of days, letting you see the best athletes from across the globe and their 12,000-pound trucks engage in high-octane battles of speed, skill and family fun.

2. Smash Room, 4×4 Track and Go Water Kart

Don’t miss the Smash Room at LIWA International Festival 2026. Shatter your stress and toss it out. You are going to love the rush of excitement and adrenaline. Next, the 4×4 Track combines desert spirit and family-friendly activites. Navigate sandy trails in a mini jeep for an unforgettable ride full of excitement and energy. Let’s not miss Go Water Kart, an interesting and safe ride that blends karting and jet-skiing in the best possible manner.

3. Desert Rally, RC Race and Pony Grove

The ultimate off-road rally at LIWA International Festival 2026, Desert Rally brings thrill and desert freedom. You can also explore RC Race, featuring high-speed remote control (RC) cars. Doesn’t it sound extremely nostalgic and exciting. Make sure to experience Pony Grove, a charming addition to LIWA Festival Abu Dhabi. You can saddle up for a gentle trot across the place and indulge in a little bit of unforgettable childhood joy.

4. Skyline and Moreeb Dune Car Championship

Take a memorable ride across the desert sky. This activity is for both kids and adults, letting you experience adrenaline, freedom and unforgettable scenery. You are going to remember this ride for a pretty long time. The Moreeb Dune Car Championship is happening from 31 December 2025 to 3 January 2026, featuring incredible races and hill climbs. Do not miss out.

5. NYE 2026 at LIWA International Festival

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi at LIWA International Festival 2026. You get a dazzling fusion of culture, music, desert splendour, pyrotechnic displays and dreams that don’t fade out. This is going to be a night to remember, for sure.

LIWA Festival Abu Dhabi Concerts 2026: Non-stop Entertainment

The ongoing LIWA International Festival 2026 in the Al Dhafra region is going to see a couple of celebrities light up the stage and your mood at the same time. Viny Roumy is bringing a Live DJ experience on 19 December 2025. Get ready for an electrifying night full of global beats, Arabic hits, dynamic mixes and trending tracks. On 29 December 2025, Yara is presenting a Live In Concert, presenting her angelic voice and iconic hits. Make sure to book your LIWA Festival tickets as soon as possible to not miss out.

NYE Fireworks at LIWA International Festival 2026

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You must be part of this experience. LIWA International Festival 2026 is planning one of the best New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Abu Dhabi, in addition to other pieces of entertainment and fun. On 31 December 2025, step into LIWA Village at 8:00 PM for beautiful pyrotechnic displays. This magical atmosphere is going to highlight the uniqueness of the event and captivate you. You can also find the fireworks on the closing day of the festival and on all Saturdays and Sundays.

The LIWA NYE 2026 celebrations are going to attract both locals and tourists. Enjoy fireworks, cultural performances, drone displays, live music and traditional dancing against a desert backdrop, full of joy and excitement. This event not only marks the beginning of 2026 but also brings into focus the rich heritage and community spirit of Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region.

LIWA International Festival 2026 Tickets: The Desert’s Grand Stage is Set

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General admission to LIWA International Festival 2026 is free. You don’t need to pay a Dirham for it. But some activities and competitions are likely to require fees. Therefore, make sure to check LIWA Sports Club app and LIWA Festival Abu Dhabi social media channels for the latest updates.

Timings and Schedule:

Sunday to Thursday: 4:00 pm to 12:00 am

Friday to Saturday: 4:00 pm to 2:00 am

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LIWA International Festival: Important Things to Keep in Mind

1. First of all, plan for the changing atmosphere. In the Al Dhafra region in Abu Dhabi, day time temperatures can get harsh and chilly as the sun sets. Therefore, bring layers and make sure to pack sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.

2. Next, it is extremely important to remain hydrated all the time.

3. If you are driving or coming in a taxi to LIWA International Festival 2026, it is better to bring a 4×4 vehicle. Check your car ahead of your journey to ensure it is in the right condition and consider travelling in a convoy, if possible.

4. LIWA Village is in a remote area. Therefore, you are likely to find limited amenities, usually in serviced hotels and resorts. Bring essentials, such as snacks, hydration kits, toiletries and extra batteries, in addition to bring mentally prepared.

5. Respect nature. The Al Dhafra region has pristine desert landscapes. Therefore, make sure not to litter and stay on designated paths.

6. Try local experiences in Lia. You can enjoy dune bashing and more.

7. For the best experience, it is recommended to stay in one of the hotels near LIWA International Festival 2026.

8. Please dress modestly, keeping the local culture and traditions in mind.

9. Desert-friendly clothing is appreciated as things change fast here.

10. LIWA International Festival is one of the best family-friendly events in Abu Dhabi.

11. Children in the age group of 4-10 need to be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

12. People of Determination and Children 0-3 get free entry.

Best Route to LIWA International Festival 2026

If coming by car, you can use the Sheikh Zayed Road (E10) and pay attention to all the signs to the LIWA Desert area. Turn on your navigation app and get, set, go. If booking a taxi, your driver is going to safely take you to and from LIWA International Festival as it is an important landmark. You need three hours to get to the destination from Abu Dhabi.

Best hotels near LIWA International Festival 2026

There are a number of incredible hotels near LIWA International Festival 2025. These hotels and resorts are located in the Al Dhafra region, keeping you close to majestic scenery and thoughtful hospitality. You can also get to LIWA Village from Abu Dhabi in a matter of three hours. But for the best experiences, it is recommended to book a room at one of the properties nearby.

The ongoing LIWA International Festival 2026 is one of the best events in Abu Dhabi to experience. From motorsports and cultural performances to live entertainment and delicious food, this place has it all. You can also check out Monster Jam, back by popular demand, from 26-27 December 2025. Make sure to be part of all the thrilling experiences the annual festival has to offer. Resources are likely to be limited as the Al Dhafra region has a desert landscape. But be prepared for some of the most magical skies and scenery. The area is pristine, so keep it as such as you return. Bring back only your footprints and lasting memories. You can book a stay at one of the hotels near LIWA International Festival or take a three-hour-long car ride to the place. Spend your New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi time at LIWA Village.

Be ready for magic and memories – as the ultiLIWA International Festival 2026 – Tickets, Timings, Experiences and Location Detailsmate entertainment has returned to Al Dhafra.

LIWA International Festival 2026: Frequently asked questions