How to get to Liwa Festival from Abu Dhabi and Dubai
Last updated 22 October 2026
Liwa International Festival is held at Tal Moreeb Dune in the LIWA Oasis. It is about 230 km (around two hours by car) from Abu Dhabi city and about 330 km (around three hours) from Dubai to Liwa; allow a little more to reach Tal Moreeb itself. A paved road leads to the dune.
By car
Liwa can only be reached by road. From Abu Dhabi the drive to Liwa is about two hours; from Dubai about three hours, depending on traffic and speed. Tal Moreeb is a little further on. A paved road leads to Tal Moreeb, so a regular car is enough in normal conditions. Wind can blow sand onto the road, so drive carefully and keep your speed down.
During festival days the area is busier than usual, so leave earlier than you think you need to and bring water and a full tank.
By taxi or transfer
Long-distance taxis operate from Abu Dhabi. If you choose a taxi, agree the return journey in advance, so that you are not left without a ride back from the desert late in the evening.
Stay overnight
The festival runs into the evening with concerts and fireworks, and the drive back is long. Many visitors plan a night in Liwa, either in a hotel or in a desert camp. Rooms are limited in festival weeks, so book early.
What to bring
- A jacket for the evening
- Sunglasses and sun cream
- Water
- A phone power bank
- Cash and a card
Frequently asked questions
- How far is Liwa Festival from Abu Dhabi?
- About 230 km to Liwa, roughly two hours by car; allow a little more to reach Tal Moreeb.
- How far is Liwa Festival from Dubai?
- About 330 km to Liwa, roughly three hours by car depending on traffic; allow a little more to reach Tal Moreeb.
- Do I need a 4×4 to get to Tal Moreeb?
- No. A paved road leads to the dune, so a regular car is enough in normal conditions. A 4×4 is useful only if you plan to drive on sand.