Liwa desert safari – Explore the empty quarter desert
Update - 28th February, 2021
The Liwa Desert is a part of the world's largest sand desert , the Empty Quarter. Don't let the eerie name scare you off from exploring this exciting place. If you are quite skeptical, read this comprehensive guide that's packed with tips and information from Arabiers' Liwa Desert guides.
Table Of Contents
01
The Empty Quarter desert
As the world continues to develop, one of the places that still stay true to its origins is the Empty Quarter desert with its infinite dunes and untouched beauty. More than 7 decades ago, before oil was discovered in UAE, the famous explorer Wilfred Thesiger traversed the sands of Liwa. His book, the Arabian Sands in 1959 mentioned the beauty that emanates from the silence and the towering dunes that add to the personality of the empty Quarter. The only thing that has changed within these 70 years is that Liwa is more explorable now than it was back then. Enjoy a 90 minute drive from Abu Dhabi to off-road amidst the famous dunes, walk through the lush Liwa Oasis or stargaze under the Liwa desert's unpolluted sky. A trip to UAE would be incomplete without a visit to one of the world's most exalted terrains.
02
Travelling to Liwa
Self-driving to Liwa
If your plan is to just visit Liwa desert without off-roading across the dunes you can drive there by normal car. However, there are no Liwa-based operates that offer off-roading experiences to the Empty Quarter. If your main goal is to off-road to the Empty Quarter, it is advisable to book an off-roading experience from Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
| Travelling from | How far to – Tal Mor'eb | How many minutes |
|---|---|---|
| From Abu Dhabi (AUH Airport) | 242 km | 2 h 25 min |
| From Dubai (DXB Airport) | 362 km | 3 h 30 min |
| From Hatta (Hatta Fort Hotel) | 476 km | 4 h 40 min |
| From Ras Al Khaima (RAK Airport) | 458 km | 4 h 23 min |
| From Sharjah (SHJ Airport) | 386 km | 3 h 43 min |
| From Ajman (Mall Ajman) | 392 km | 3 h 51 min |
| From Fujairah (Fujairah Beach) | 469 km | 4 h 34 min |
| From Al Ain | 338 km | 3 h 11 min |
Tour operators & 4x4 transfers
There are certain reputed tour operators and guides that offer morning, afternoon, evening and overnight Liwa Safari experiences. These operators also provide pick up from all parts of UAE.
Public transports
From Abu Dhabi
Bus services are offered from Abu Dhabi's Central bus stand near Al Wahda Mall to Liwa's Mezairaa Bus station. Operating times from Abu Dhabi are 9.20 am and 9.00 pm which reach Liwa at 12.49 pm and 12.29 am respectively. Buses leave Liwa's Mezairaa station at 5.10 am and 4.15 pm, reaching Abu Dhabi at 8.38 am and 7.43 pm respectively. A one way ticket costs 30 AED.
Timings are subject to change and please make sure you call toll free number of AD Trafic department, 80088888 to double confirm the timings
From Dubai
There are no direct buses from Dubai to Liwa. You can board a bus to Abu Dhabi from Dubai and then go to Liwa by bus. There are 3 buses operating from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.
- E100 - Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Abu Dhabi central bus station (Main station near Al Wahda mall)
- E101 - IBN Battuta Bus Station to Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station, Abu Dhabi
- E102 - IBN Battuta Bus Station to Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station, Abu Dhabi
Timings are subject to change and please make sure you call Dubai RTA call center toll free number 800900 to double confirm the timings Even if you take a bus from
Even if you take a bus from Abu Dhabi to Liwa Mezairaa station you can visit the major city attractions and other event venues. Mentioned below are the popular Liwa attractions, their distance from Mezairaa station and the cost of transport from the station to the attractions.
- To Moreeb dune festival facility - 26 km & Approx 30 minutes ride (Will be costing approx 55-60 AED)
- To Liwa Oasis - 82 km & Approx 60 minutes ride (160-170 AED)
- To Liwa fort - 82 km & Approx 60 minutes ride (160-170 AED)
Taxis are available at the bus station. But they are costly because most attractions are far from the bus station. Budget Travelers who prefer travelling by local taxi or buses are advised to opt for rental or book a transfer with a local tour operator to save money.
Taxi
Mentioned below are the taxi fares in Liwa for the timings 6.00 am to 10.00 pm and 10.00 pm to 6.00 am.
| 6 am to 10 pm | 10 pm to 6 am |
|---|---|
| 1.82 AED per km | 1.82 /km per km |
| Flag-fall 5 AED | Flag-fall 5.5 AED |
| Booking 4 AED | Booking 5 AED |
03
Where to stay in Liwa
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort By Anantara
2019 Travelers' Choice
Inspired by a desert mirage, the Anantara Qasr Al Sarab is nestled in the midst of the Liwa desert far away from civilization. From its arabesque exterior structure to the interior details, everything will transport you to a typical desert fairytale setting. Apart from offering stunning views of the desert, the resort offers gym, outdoor pool, tennis court and spa facilities. The interior features mellow tones and lush textures to bring out the luxury desert feel. The resort's many suites are equipped with sliding glass doors that overlook the desert panorama. Some of the other luxuries on offer are a rain shower, deep bath and pillow menu. The adventurous should drop by the resort's Desert Excursion Centre organises off-roading, camel trekking, desert walks, archery, mountain biking and more. Those who are vacationing with kids can make use of the kids club to take some time off from parenting and enjoy a romantic evening in the desert, experience a rejuvenating massage in the Anantara Spa or take a dip in the resort's vast outdoor pool.
Resort Tilal Liwa Hotel - Madinat Zayed
A worthy contender in Liwa's list of top accomodations, don't think less of it because of it's 4 star badge. Other than the breathtaking views of the Empty Quarter, the resort's infinity pool and sunbathing terrace are a hit among it's guests. The spacious air-conditioned rooms of Tilal Liwa resort sport an Arabesque decor with certain rooms having furnished balconies that overlook either the desert, the pool or the garden. All rooms are equipped with satellite TV and toiletries. The resort has 2 restaurants that serve local and international fare. The Al Liwan exudes a laid-back atmosphere where diners can enjoy views of the lush garden. For those who enjoy live cooking, Al Badiya's open kitchen will be a hit. Other activities on offer include sand boarding, desert safaris and steam baths.
04
Liwa desert safari offers
Liwa morning desert safari
The private morning Liwa desert safari is an ideal option for travelers on layovers or on brief visits to UAE. This Safari tour offers sand boarding in the desert dunes, dune bashing and spotting the unique Liwa camels. This tour can be tailored according to the guests requirements and time availability.
Approximate Cost
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What's Included
- Pick up & drop off by air-conditioned 4x4 land cruisers
- Dune bashing
- Visit Liwa oasis
- Spot black Camels & picture
- Sand boarding from mega dunes of Liwa
- Arabic tea & Coffee, Soft drinks, water
- Insurance
- Expert Liwa guide
Not Included
- Lunch
- Visit to Qasar Al Sarab
- Visit to Moreeb Dunes or festivals
Timings :
Normally pick up from 5 am and drop off from 1 or2 pm
Duration :
9 to 8 hours
Liwa Overnight Desert Safari
Team up with an experienced Liwa desert guide and explore the Liwa desert in multiple ways. The Gulf region's largest desert is an amazing place to enjoy an overnight desert safari package. Start the experience with a thrilling desert drive that is followed by a visit to a Liwa camel farm. Here you can see and photograph a species of camel specific only to Liwa desert, the black Liwa camels. After a memorable sunset view absorb the desert's quiet and calm atmosphere at night as you stargaze and devour a scrumptious BBQ dinner. Wake up your mind and body with a sunrise view and Arabic coffee followed by breakfast. Return back to your hotel after a laid back dune drive.
Approximate Cost
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What's Included
- 20hours tours with private 4x4 & professional Experienced Liwa dune desert safari guide
- 4x4 pick up from any location in UAE (Subject to available)
- Camping gear (igloo tent, Arabic Pillows / Carpet and sleeping bags)
- Live BBQ dinner (Outdoor)
- Light Breakfast & Arabic Coffee (Outdoor)
- Insurance & 4×4 vehicle (Rollover Protected)
- Liwa Camel farm (Black camels) stop for photos
- Sunset & sunrise views of Rub Al Khali
- Dune bashing on the highest virgin dunes
- Bedsheet & Blankets
- Camping Chairs & Arabic Seating mattress
- Camp fire Set up
- Visit Mezairaa Fort if time permit
- UAE Vat 5 % and All services charges
Not Included
- Lunch
- Visit to Qasar Al Sarab
- Visit to Moreeb Dunes or festivals
Timings :
You will be picked up from any location anywhere from UAE & approximately 1.30 pm – 2 pm you will be picked by 4x4.
Duration :
20-22 hours
Full day Liwa desert safari
Follow your skilled Liwa driver-guide into the outskirts of the Empty Quarter's Liwa desert. Highly advised not to visit alone for first time visitors, the Liwa desert is packed with gigantic dunes and shifting sands which you will explore in this Full day safari. Experience dune bashing, visit a camel farm where you can spot Liwa's signature black camels and take part in so many other activities that will etch some amazing memories into your mind.
Approximate Cost
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What's Included
- 10 tours with private 4x4 & professional Experienced Liwa dune desert safari guide
- 4x4 pick up from any location in UAE (Subject to available)
- Soft drinks & water in the car
- Insurance & 4×4 vehicle (Rollover Protected)
- Liwa Camel farm (Black camels) stop for photos
- Sunset views of Rub Al Khali (if late pick up chosen)
- Dune bashing on the highest virgin dunes
- UAE Vat 5 % and All services charges
Not Included
- Lunch
- Visit to Qasar Al Sarab or liwa hotel for lunch (Extra cost and different itinerary to be planed)
- Visit to Moreeb Dunes or festivals
Timings
Usually 8 am pick up and coming back around 6 pm. If you wish to see sunset in liwa desert you can start by 1 pm to 10 pm or 11 pm
Duration
10-12 hours
Luxury Liwa overnight desert safari – Camp nujum & Arabiers
Organized by Arabiers' desert experts, this overnight Liwa desert safari includes a camping experience in camp Nujum. Your tour will start from Dubai or Abu Dhabi all the way until Liwa's gigantic dunes. Activities included in this Safari are the dune bashing in Rub Al Khali and visit to Liwa Camel Farm after which you will arrive at the Qasr Al Sarab desert resort. From there travel by camel to camp Nujum where you can view the beauty of a desert sunset. Observe watching traditional activities like falconry and saluki hunting. Additional activities that guests can enjoy are archery, sand boarding and horse riding. Arabic style barbecue and food cooked in the live cooking station will be your dinner for the night. This is an amazing opportunity to experience the traditional spirit of the desert Emirate.
Approximate Cost
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What's Included
- private 4x4 & professional Experienced Liwa dune desert safari guide
- 4x4 pick up from any location in UAE (Subject to available)
- Soft drinks & water in the car and camp
- Insurance & 4×4 vehicle (Rollover Protected)
- Liwa Camel farm (Black camels) stop for photos
- Sunset views of Rub Al Khali (if late pick up chosen)
- Dune bashing on the highest virgin dunes
- Camp nujum overnight staying room
- falconry display
- saluki run
- Arabian classics barbecue
- UAE Vat 5 % and All services charges
Not Included
- Lunch (some time take away lunch arranged)
- Visit to Moreeb Dunes or festivals
- Astronomy
- Traditional band or Oriental band
- team building activities
Timings :
You will be picked up from any location anywhere from UAE & approximately 11 am –you will be picked by 4x4.
Duration :
20-22 hours
Liwa desert luxury Private Desert Dinner
If you want to enjoy some private time in the desert, the suitable option for you will be the Private Desert Dinner and Liwa desert safari organized by the Qasr Al Sarab desert resort. Get cozy in your private candlelit dining area on the summit of the dunes with a private butler at your service. Diner can be a choice of Middle Eastern or international cuisine or you can go the extra mile with a customized dinner menu (which can be specified at the time of booking). Before your dinner you will enjoy a dune bashing session on a 4x4,stop at a camel farm and witness the sunset. You will also be able to visit the Liwa Oasis and Liwa Fort.
Approximate Cost
Rate : Cost of the tour is 1300 AED per adult and 950 AED per child aged between 4 and 11 years. The minimum number of bookings for your confirmation is 2 adults.
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What's Included
- Private Butler
- Dinner - Choice of Middle Eastern and international fine dining menus
- Able to design your own menu & tour in consultation with chef & tour manager
- Private 4×4 pick up by experienced dune driving guide
- Insurance & 4×4 vehicle (Rollover Protected)
- Liwa Camel farm stop for photos
- Sunset views and desert walks in private set up in the desert
- Visit Liwa Oasis
- Sand Boarding in biggest dunes in Empty Quarter
- Thrilling Dune drives on highest dunes in Empty quarter (2 Hours)
- Visit Mezairaa Fort (Liwa fort)
Not Included
- Visit to Tel Moreeb Dunes & Liwa city area
- Alcoholic Beverages
Timings
10 am to 10 pm
Duration
10-12 hours
Liwa sunset Champagne
Take a break from the tumult of the Abu Dhabi metropolis as you escape into the Empty Quarter's Liwa desert. Begin the experience with a thrilling note as you dune bash over Liwa's gigantic sand dunes. By the time you reach the summit of the world's largest sand dune your adrenaline levels will be soaring. Relax in the comfortable Arabic setup with carpets and floor cushions. Anticipate and savor the sunset with a flute of Champagne. You can also choose to visit Liwa fort and Liwa Oasis. This Safari can also be customised by adding a meal at the breathtaking Qasr Al Sarab Resort.
Approximate Cost
Minimum 2 adults needed for the tour confirmation and per adults 590 AED charged and 490 AED (4-11 years old)
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What's Included
- Sunset champagne & outdoor Arabic set up in Moreeb Dunes
- Private 4×4 pick up by experienced dune driving guide
- Insurance & 4×4 vehicle (Rollover Protected)
- Liwa Camel farm stop for photos (Camel riding not included)
- Sunset views and desert walks Tel Moreeb
- Dune bashing for 30-45 minutes in Rub Al Khali
- Soft drinks and bottled water
- Sand Boarding in biggest dunes of Rub Al Khali
- Visit Liwa Oasis
- Visit Mezairaa Fort (Liwa fort) if time permits
Not Included
- Lunch or dinner (Lunch packets, usually arranged on an extra cost or making reservation at Qasr Al Sarab
Timings
The tour usually starts from 12 pm or 1 PM, based on your lunch preferences. If you wish to visit more places and like to spend more time, please start early like 10 am or 11 am. Usually we start at 1 Pm and back to the cities by 10 or 11 PM. Since it’s a journey of 2-3 hours we are flexible with your timings
Duration
10-12 hours
Liwa camel trekking
Liwa doesn't offer any Camel trekking safaris like those offered in Dubai and Abu Dhabi desert. However, there is a 14-day camel trek expedition that is held annually. Organised by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center,the expedition's sixth meet up was held in October 2019 at the Abu Dhabi international Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition. Over 700 individuals registered for the expedition that starts from Liwa and ends at the Heritage Village by HHC in Global Village. The trek is led by the CEO of HHC. The previous meetup of the camel trek set records with trekkers covering a total of 700 kilometres by camelback over a span of 10 hours per day. The individuals who take part in this Expedition are nicknamed as the desert knights because of their determination and their craving to experience the Emirati heritage.
Liwa desert biking
Desert biking organized by Qasr Al Sarab Resort by Anantara allows you to explore the sand dunes at a relaxed pace. You will be given a fat bike, a type of bicycle with fat tyres adapted to ride across the desert terrain that is suitable for beginners and advanced riders. You can pedal to the summit of the dunes and come reeling down, cycle past desert villages and stop when you come across a herd of camels. Individuals 14 years and above can choose from a variety of trek routes.
Approximate Cost
For 1 h to 1.5 h 280 AEDTimings : Starting from 6.15 am till sunset
Age : 14+
Dress : Wear sport clothing and closed toe shoes
Book NowSelf-drive Liwa desert safari
This self drive Liwa Safari is a good way to try something new and starts with a pick up by your Liwa desert guide. Enjoy a 3 hour long drive to the Liwa desert, stop by the Liwa Oasis and the camel farm. Upon reaching the Liwa dunes your guide will teach you the ropes on how to drive over the dune. After you are confident enjoy a unique kind of thrill as you manuever the vehicle over the world's largest dune under the watchful eye of our guide.
Approximate Cost
All inclusive per 4x4 vehicle 1200 AED (maximum 4 guest or combination of 4 guests)
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What's Included
- Use of our 4x4 car one the highest dunes of Empty quarter
- Safe Route planning in liwa for your drive
- Experience Liwa dune desert safari guide
- Insurance & 4×4 vehicle (Rollover Protected)
- Liwa Camel farm (Black camels) stop for photos
- Bottled water & soft drinks
- Sunset views of Rub Al Khali
- Introductory lessons on Desert driving & short training session
- 15-25 minutes desert driving by your self
- Visit Liwa Oasis
Not Included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Meals
Timings
You will be picked up from any location anywhere from UAE & approximately 11 am –you will be picked by 4x4.
Duration
20-22 hours
05
Comparing UAE deserts
| Deserts | Unique and special for | Facilities and special resorts | How far from Abu Dhabi City (From grand mosque) | How far from Dubai city (Dubai mall) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liwa Desert |
|
Home for reputed Qasr Al Sarab desert resort |
2 hours | 3 hours |
| Al Faya Desert |
|
Home to quad biking spots, dune buggy spots and a few base camps | 2.5 hours | 1 hour |
| Al Khatim desert |
|
Famous for the Arabian Nights village and various desert camps |
40 minutes | 2 hours |
| Al Awir |
|
Houses various desert camps offering a range of qualities |
40 minutes | 2 hours |
| Lehbab | The spot for Dune driving, quad biking and dune buggy riding offered in Dubai desert safari |
Numerous dune buggy and quad biking spots |
37 minutes | 2 hours |
| Mlehia desert | The spot for overnight stay, dune driving, quad biking and dune buggy riding for Sharjah desert safari guests | The Mleiha Archaeological Centre and Mleiha desert camp are located here | 1 hour | 2.5 hours |
| Al wathba desert | Hosting ground for Camel Racing Festival, Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival, Al Wathba Fossil Dunes, Al Wathba cycling track, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve & horse riding | The Jumeirah Al Wathba desert resort is situated here | 40 minutes | 2 hours |
| Dubai desert conservation reserve | The first national park in UAE to encounter the Arabian Oryx. | Al Maha luxury desert resort and tour operators (Alpha tours, Arabian Adventures,Lama tours and Platinum heritage) are situated here. | 2 hours | 40 minutes |
06
Safety and accidents
Facts about the liwa desert accidents
- 1. Speed can sound fun but it is actually quite deadly, especially in a desert terrain. Most advertisements display individuals making sudden manouevers and drifting their dune buggies, quad bikes or 4x4. These moves are performed by professionals and should not be attempted by novices who aren't familiar with the terrain.
- 2. Some desert guides in Liwa tend to drive recklessly. If you come across any you are advised to immediately abort the trip for your own safety and inform your tour operator or lodge a complaint with the tourism police at the numbers +97128002626 and +97125127777
- 3. If you are experiencing the desert safari with kids make sure to buckle up the kids in a baby seat during dune bashing sessions and keep them in your line of site at all times.
Basic safety guidelines for Liwa desert
Camping in the Liwa desert might seem like a walk in the park but there are so many safety guidelines that have to be followed to ensure the safety of the campers and the environment. To avoid any fire related accidents make sure your guide brings along a fire extinguisher and first aid kits. Heaters and and lights should be placed at a distance from the tent material and should not be left switched on when the camper is not inside the tent. Camping novices and solo travelers are advised to join camping groups whereas advanced campers can set camp a bit further as long as they are aware of all measures and travel with a group of friends who are also educated in camping related practices.
The tourism police Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Department of Transport advise all visitors to drive their quad bikes or vehicles safely. Anyone who fails to do so will be facing fines. Visitors who are driving are also advised to refrain from using their phones or avoid any driving distractions while driving. Keeping a safe distance between the other vehicles, driving at a safe speed within the mentioned limits,using low-beam lights and maintaining a clean glass/mirror are some of the other safety tips given out by the Abu Dhabi department of Transport.
Individuals taking part in quad biking are required to take the assistance of an expert when choosing their quad bike. They should also make sure to wear a sturdy helmet and drive in designated areas. Performing stunts with the quad bike, driving fast and when tired are all No-Nos.
07
Luxury Liwa desert safaris
Currently, all Arabiers' Luxury Liwa desert safaris take place at the renowned Qasr Al Sarab desert resort in Liwa. The resort is a perfect blend between luxury and cultural beauty that seamlessly integrates with the desert environment. The location is ideal for families, couples and solo travelers. This Safari begins with a pickup from any corner of UAE. The first activity will be dune driving in the dunes of the empty Quarter. You will also stop by the Liwa Oasis and a Liwa camel farm where you can see the Liwa camel species. The second part of the tour begins when your guide drives you to the Qasr Al Sarab desert resort where you can choose to stay the night or enjoy a delicious dinner.
Click here to see Virtual tour of Qasr Al Sarab
These are the Luxury Liwa desert safaris that are offered currently
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Qasr Al Sarab desert resort Private Desert Dinner & Liwa Safari by 4x4
Book Now8
Climates in liwa
The UAE is dominated by a desert climate and a journey to the Liwa desert needs to be well planned with the climate in mind. You need to meticulously research which months and days are ideal for a pleasant Liwa desert experience and plan your trip accordingly. Summer in UAE which starts from May and goes till September is characterized by increased humidity levels and hot winds that result in unbearable heat in the Liwa desert.
Insider tip
- 'When to visit Liwa?' is a question asked by many with a simple answer. Climate-wise, winter months from September to April (take a look at the temperature chart below) are good for not just desert safaris but all kinds of outdoor activities. However, hotel rates and flight tickets are very costly during these months. If you are a budget traveler then the best time to visit will be the summer months as hotel fares and flight rates are at its cheapest but the climate will be unbearably hot. You can bag a few good deals at the end of April or end of September as temperature is manageable and so are the hotel fares and flight rates.
- If you don't like much crowds in the sightseeing spots and wish for a low crowd level in the desert too then plan your safari on a weekday. Desert safaris in the weekends (Thursday, Friday and Saturday) cater not only to tourists but also local Emiratis and expats residing in the UAE.
9
Events in Liwa
Liwa's most famous and anticipated event is the Liwa Tel Moreeb Festival that is attended by the owners of the region's most powerful four wheelers and bikes. The festival consists of many activities like drag racing, bike races,Motorcross track challenge, horse racing, camel racing, freestyle drifting,classic cars competition and more. The showstopper of the event is the climb to the summit of the world's largest sand dune, the Tel Moreeb dune. It's name translates to 'the terrifying mountain' which is a fitting name for its 300 meter height and 50° angle.
Insider tip
- If your visit to UAE falls between December 26 and January 11 then you can experience this adventurous event along with your desert safari. You will visit the Rub Al Khali desert during the morning hours. After lunch, you can enjoy the event until dinner time.
- Avoid attending the event on the opening days as the crowd level is high. If you want to enjoy watching the activities with a manageable crowd level attend the events between 5th and 8th of January.
- If you are able to plan your visit to Tel modern festival on New Year's eve then you can also see some fireworks along with the event activities.
Other famous events in Liwa
Liwa Dates Festival
Dates: annually, from July 17 to July 27
The Liwa date festival aims to preserve an integral part of the Emirati heritage, Palm trees and Ratan(half ripe dates). The festival is a good place to spectate popular competitions and activities that showcase Emirati heritage. At present, the Liwa dates festival is famous and is attended by not just individuals but also companies that are passionate about this aspect of Emirati heritage.
Al Gharbia Watersports Festival
Dates: annually, April 21 to April 30
Hosted in a vast expanse of 20,000 square metres, the Al Gharbia watersports festival has many unique activities lined up. Some of the activities are the traditional Dhow race, beach football, parachute sailing, rowing rice, kayak boat race and more. It is also when the UAE sailing National championship (Regatta race) and kite surfing competition take place. It also hosts many outstanding Emirati heritage activities that have a close tie to the marine habitat.
Checkout our liwa event calendar
10
List of movies shot in Liwa
Liwa, a part of the Rub Al Khali or the Empty Quarter, boasts a picturesque gold backdrop that has been used in numerous chartbuster films. The Liwa Desert can be any setting you want it to be, a backdrop for a convoy of stunning cars, a landscape from an intergalactic planet or a picturesque spot to try a jump or two. The timeless beauty of Liwa has been captured and valued by these films making it all the more exciting to visit this Desert setting.
1. Star Wars Ep. VII: The Force Awakens (2015)
Numerous scenes from Star Wars: The Force Awakens were shot in a section of the famous Rub Al Khali Desert. The Al Wathba fossil Dunes of this desert was the real-life setting of the desert planet Jakku of this sci-fi movie saga. The sand dunes of Al Wathba have very ethereal shapes and exude a white-tinged hue which gives the look of a scene from another planet. Star Wars is one of the most popular blockbusters and having a location used in a movie makes it all the more worth the visit
2. Fast and Furious 7 (2015)
Anyone who doesn't know about this adventurous and zooming movie series has to definitely be living under a rock. Many scenes of the box office loving Fast and Furious 7 movie were shot in UAE's favourite attractions like the Jumeirah Etihad tower, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi corniche and more. Staring Paul Walker and Vin Diesel in lead roles,one specific scene though was taken in the golden backdrop of the Liwa Desert. A fleet of exotic luxury cars driven by Brian(Paul Walker), Dominique(vin diesel) and their gang, winding through the bronze sand dunes of the Liwa Desert.
3. Mission impossible 7 (2019)
The Tom Cruiser starrer is back again with action taking place in different parts of the world. In the movie, Cruise's character Ethan Hunt jumps off a helicopter that flies above the Liwa Desert. This might be a tiny snippet, but the backdrop is simply stunning.
4. Dune (2020)
The golden planes and dunes of the Liwa Desert was the ideal location to shoot the scenes that take place in the fictional planet Arrakis. Starring Zendaya, Timothee Chalamet and Oscar Isaac, the Arrakis is the main setting of the movie the landscape of which resembles those in the spectacular Liwa Desert.
