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The Liwa International Festival 2025, held amidst the golden dunes of the Al Dhafra desert, offers the ultimate blend of cultural discovery, adventure, and entertainment.
With its rich line-up of activities and experiences, this guide will help you plan the perfect day at Abu Dhabi’s premier winter festival.
Morning: Start with the charm of Liwa
- Stop by the Liwa Sign: Begin your day with a photo at the iconic Liwa sign, the perfect introduction to a day of exploration.
- Stroll Through Liwa Walk and Liwa Market: Explore the vibrant stalls, cafés, and shops in Liwa Market, where you’ll discover unique goods, traditional crafts, and mouthwatering refreshments.
- Enjoy the Desert’s Serenity: Take in the tranquil morning desert scenery before diving into the action-packed day ahead.
Afternoon: Explore culture and thrills
Visit the Three Forts (Open from 5pm):
- Mezair’ah Fort: Immerse yourself in art workshops, live music, creative boutiques, and more.
- Al Meel Fort: Experience traditional cooking, live tea preparation, nostalgic games, and soulful Oud nights.
- Qutuf Fort: Indulge in fine dining with Emirati-Mediterranean fusion, shop creative boutiques, and enjoy ladies-only exclusive evenings.
- Experience Thrills at Liwa Village: Adrenaline, Meydan, and Wanasa zones at Liwa Village are must-visits for adventure lovers. Enjoy big theme park rides, dynamic games, interactive challenges, and exhilarating entertainment. These zones are perfect for families, groups of friends, and anyone seeking unforgettable thrills.
- Cultural Workshops at the Souk: Starting at 4pm, participate in pottery-making, spice-mixing, live cooking, and artisan crafts. These hands-on experiences offer a deep dive into the UAE’s rich cultural heritage.
Evening: Motorsports, entertainment, and fireworks
Witness the Motorsports Action: Dive into Liwa’s extensive motorsports championships, featuring edge-of-your-seat competitions that bring together the best drivers and vehicles. From freestyle drifting to other high-octane challenges, the festival delivers non-stop excitement for motorsports enthusiasts.
- Marvel at the Fireworks: At 8pm, the desert sky above Moreeb Dune comes alive with a dazzling fireworks display, creating the perfect photo opportunity and end to your day.
- Liwa Film Show: Wrap up your evening with a cinematic projection on Moreeb Dune, celebrating the legacy of Liwa and its unique heritage through stunning visuals and storytelling.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
