Where to stay for Liwa Festival: hotels, desert resorts and camps
Last updated 22 October 2026
Rooms near Liwa are limited and fill up in festival weeks, so book early. Your options are hotels in the Liwa area, a desert resort such as Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara (a longer drive away) or a desert camp. Abu Dhabi is about two hours away if you prefer a day trip.
Hotels in the Liwa area
The Liwa area has a small number of hotels, and the festival brings visitors from all over the UAE. Book as soon as you know your dates. Mega Drive Experience × AMA accommodates its expedition guests at Western Hotel Liwa.
Desert resorts
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is the best-known luxury stay in the region. It is a longer drive from the festival grounds, so plan transport in advance.
Desert camps and glamping
Camps and glamping options are popular in festival weeks and sell out quickly. Choose one that has hot water, toilets and a clear cancellation policy, and ask how far it is from the festival grounds.
Day trip from Abu Dhabi
A day trip is possible: Liwa is about 230 km and roughly two hours by car from Abu Dhabi. The festival evening programme runs late, so the drive back can be tiring. Consider a night in Liwa.
Frequently asked questions
- Should I book a hotel in advance for Liwa Festival?
- Yes. Rooms near Liwa are limited and fill up quickly during the festival weeks.
- Can I visit Liwa Festival as a day trip from Abu Dhabi?
- Yes. Liwa is about 230 km from Abu Dhabi, roughly two hours by car. Because the evenings run late, many visitors prefer to stay a night.