Abu Dhabi is gearing up for an exciting winter as two of its most anticipated festivals, the Liwa International Festival and the MOTN Festival, are set to return. With vibrant celebrations of culture, entertainment, and community spirit, both festivals promise to captivate visitors from November through January. Get ready to experience the UAE’s rich traditions and modern entertainment at these spectacular events.
Dates and Locations
The MOTN Festival will commence on November 28, 2026, celebrating its 10th anniversary and running until January 3, 2027. This year’s festivities will take place across various locations, including Al Mugheirah Bay in Al Dhafra, Al Jahili Park in Al Ain, and an edition at the Abu Dhabi Corniche, which will open on December 9.
Following closely, the Liwa International Festival will begin on December 11, 2026, and will continue until January 2, 2027, set against the stunning backdrop of Tal Moreeb, the UAE’s tallest dune, towering over 300 metres.
What to Expect
This year, MOTN Festival adopts the theme ‘World of Wonder’ and aims to cater to diverse audiences through its three themed zones. The Melting Aurora area is designed for younger visitors, while Beyond the Sky offers an immersive experience for teenagers and young adults. The Golden Hour zone will create a space where families can enjoy new culinary concepts, live entertainment, and social shopping experiences.
Meanwhile, the Liwa International Festival will feature a revamped Liwa Village, where more than half of the rides and attractions will showcase new or reimagined concepts. Highlights include the Circus Swinger, Tagada, and Space Tower, along with thrilling activities such as the Ninja Challenge, Pixel Run, Desert Heist, and Drift Trike. For adventure seekers, bungee jumping will also make its debut.
Exciting Performances and Community Events
One of the standout attractions at the Liwa International Festival will be the international action sports brand Nitro Circus, performing for the first time on December 19 and 20. Attendees are in for a treat as more than 15 athletes will showcase freestyle motocross and BMX stunts, choreographed routines, and pyrotechnic displays.
The festival will not shy away from its motorsport roots, featuring a packed programme including freestyle displays, motorbike drag racing, falcon racing, and drifting competitions. The Tal Moreeb Car Championship will top off the festival, running from December 30 to January 2.
Beyond entertainment, the festival will encourage community engagement with a series of sporting events, such as the Liwa Sign Climb Challenge on December 19, a cycling race on December 21, a community run on December 23, a padel tournament from December 24 to 25, and a fitness tour on December 29.
Experience Emirati Heritage
The Liwa International Festival will also introduce a new Heritage Village, where visitors can delve into Emirati traditions through interactive workshops and demonstrations. Experience falconry, Nabati poetry, traditional games, and palm-leaf weaving while enjoying Emirati hospitality and the customs related to the majlis and the preparation of gahwa.
The festival’s experience will extend beyond the main venue, with connections to heritage sites across Al Dhafra, including Dhafeer Fort, Al Meel Fort, Al Yabana Fort, Khanour Fort, and Mezairaa Fort.
Planning Your Visit
To attend the MOTN Festival, plan your visit from November 28, 2026, to January 3, 2027, while the Abu Dhabi Corniche edition opens on December 9. The Liwa International Festival runs from December 11, 2026, to January 2, 2027. For further information, including the full programme, visit liwainternationalfestival.ae.
Tickets for Liwa Village can be purchased at liwavillage.ae, and Nitro Circus tickets are available via Platinumlist. Don’t miss out on these vibrant celebrations that promise to herald the winter season in Abu Dhabi!