• Annual event in Al Dhafra will be held from 13 December to 4 January 2025

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi has announced that the Liwa International Festival 2025 will take place from 13 December 2024 to 4 January 2025 at Liwa, in the Al Dhafra region.

The Liwa International Festival, organised in collaboration with Liwa Sports Club, Al Dhafra Municipality, Abu Dhabi Police, Abu Dhabi Media Network and Miral will host its array of activities for 23 consecutive days until the fourth day of the New Year.

This festival reinforces Al Dhafra’s status as one of the most important winter destinations, both regionally and globally, drawing diverse segments of the community such as camping enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and fans of traditional sports, racing, and automotive and motorcycle challenges. The event boasts participation from top professionals and competitors from around the world.

Visitors can also look forward to an exciting lineup of fireworks displays, live music performances, and a variety of desert activities amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Al Dhafra region.

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi will once again organise desert, arts, and entertainment events during the festival, along with the Liwa Village, which celebrates the richness of Emirati heritage.

The Liwa International Festival offers visitors a chance to explore a wide array of exceptional experiences, including a main stage for musical performances and celebrations, various dining options, a crafts market, creative workshops, family-friendly activities, a children's play area, and local vendors showcasing the best Emirati products. Visitors will have access to a range of hospitality and accommodation options, from luxurious units to desert lodgings and tents adorned with traditional Sadu fabric and safari tents.

The first sporting events will commence on 13 December with a two-day car exhibition, followed by various competitions and activities leading up to the last three days, which will feature the thrilling Hill Climbing Championship — one of the most exciting and well-known competitions of the event. The festival will also highlight traditional sports such as falconry, camel racing, and horse racing, as well as pigeon shooting and archery.

The Liwa International Festival shines a spotlight on the unique tourism offerings of the Al Dhafra region, inviting one and all to create beautiful memories with family and friends while nurturing their passions for adventure, sports, culture, arts, and music.

About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi:

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuels economic progress and helps achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture, creative and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.

For more information about the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and the destination, please visit: dctabudhabi.ae and visitabudhabi.ae

For more information, please contact:
Reem Jrade
Senior Account Executive
Reem.jrade@bursonglobal.com