Liwa International Festival in Abu Dhabi welcomes Ludacris and Tyrese

The event includes Arabic concerts, motorsport events and a Zuma pop-up.

Liwa International Festival is back in Abu Dhabi. The fun-filled festival brings together music, food, shopping and sports – thrilling motorsports at Moreeb Dune, anyone? The exciting events include the opening of Liwa Village, new dining venues from Antika to Zuma, and guest appearances from Fast & Furious stars Tyrese Gibson and Ludacris.

Liwa International Festival started in 2004, and is the largest of its kind in the Middle East. Running from 16 to 31 December, it culminates on New Year’s Eve with a spectacular show filled with concerts and fireworks.

Liwa Village celebrates Emirati culture, art and music, as guests can catch acclaimed Gulf artists. Local legends Hamad Al Ameri and Eida Al Menhali will perform on 16 December, and tickets start from AED 50. Plus, Saudi Abadi Al Johar and Kuwaiti Mutref Al Mutref and Iraqi Rahma Riad will perform on 23 December, and tickets start from AED 100. 

Gaze has created an immersive dining experience with Antika and Zuma. Antika serves a fusion of Arabic and oriental dishes across one session per evening, and is open from 16 to 18 December. Zuma serves Japanese food across three sessions per evening, and is open from 23 to 25 December. The dishes range from fresh crab maki to the famous miso-marinated black cod. Tickets for the dining experiences start from AED 1,000. 

Petrolheads will love FuelFest Arabia and its thrilling motor events, from car shows to drag races. Taking place from 17 to 18 December, it features famous cars and famous faces. Family-friendly experiences range from go karting to racing simulators. Plus, there’s a meet and greet with the Fast & Furious stars Tyrese Gibson and Ludacris, which is followed by a performance from Ludacris himself. Tickets start from AED 100 for a single-day pass and AED 1,200 for a VVIP pass with a meet and greet. 

His Excellency Saleh Mohammed Al Jaziri, Director General of Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, explains: “The Liwa International Festival is a leading model for events that bring together traditional and contemporary sports, with inspiring cultural, heritage and entertainment experiences. We expect an enthusiastic atmosphere that will light up every evening of the festival, with fun and joy and entertainment for all. Everyone has the opportunity to enjoy unforgettable memories at the Liwa Village and Moreeb Dune.” 

Strap in, it’s going to be an exciting ride. 

GO: Visit www.liwafestival.ae for more information.