Enjoy cultural zones, family activities, thrilling rides and desert adventures at Liwa Village
Pack your sunnies, your sense of adventure, and your curiosity as Liwa Village is back.
The heart of the Liwa International Festival 2026, running until 3 January, is ready to welcome you to Abu Dhabi’s iconic desert playground with a whirlwind of culture, entertainment, and adrenaline-pumping experiences.
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Desert’s Grand Stage
Set against the golden dunes of Al Dhafra, Liwa Village is the ultimate blend of heritage and high-energy fun.
Spread across six immersive zones, Shams Liwa, Wanasa, Meydan, Souk, Adrenaline, and Auto, the Village is like a mini-city of adventure where there’s literally something for everyone.
Shams Liwa is your first stop for sweeping desert views from its famous Ferris Wheel; the perfect photo op to kick off your adventure.
Souk is where tradition meets discovery featuring pottery workshops, weaving, henna, live cooking demos, artisan showcases, and hands-on cultural experiences that give a real taste of Emirati heritage.
Wanasa is all about the kids (and the kid in all of us), with creative workshops, carnival rides, mazes, and play parks designed to spark imagination.
Teens and tweens, Meydan is your playground, packed with horror escape rooms, smash rooms, interactive stage moments, and strategic games that let you show off your daring side.
Adventure junkies, say hello to Adrenaline Zone featuring high-energy rides, carnival thrills, and games that’ll get your heart racing.
And for car lovers, Auto Zone is a dream come true with classic cars, RC racing, jeep experiences, and hands-on motoring activations celebrating the UAE’s automotive culture.
Beyond these zones, the Village adds even more magic with Monster Jam Arena, a Petting Zoo & Pony Grove, and Desert Rally and Water Karting experiences. In other words: there’s a little adventure for every pace and every preference.
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Going green in the desert
Thanks to a partnership between DCT Abu Dhabi, LINKVIVA, and Kilo Energy, the Festival is powered by a large temporary solar farm combined with advanced energy storage.
Clean, quiet, and efficient, this system keeps the festival buzzing without the noise or emissions, proving that even a massive desert event can go green.
A tradition you can’t miss
For over 20 years, Liwa International Festival has been one of Abu Dhabi’s most loved winter events.
Visitors from across the UAE, the region, and beyond flock to the desert each year to celebrate Emirati culture, create memories, and enjoy the perfect mix of tradition and modern thrills.
Whether you’re popping in for the day or settling in for a full desert escape, Liwa Village 2026 promises a fun time for all and a true taste of the UAE’s heritage.
AED 10, 12 December to 3 January, Moreeb dune Liwa. For further information, visit Liwa International Festival and Liwa Village
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