The festival will take place on 15 July.
The UAE is renowned for hosting a diverse array of international events that feature top global talent. But the country never loses sight of its rich cultural heritage. One of the biggest celebrations of Emirati tradition is the Liwa Date Festival.
Taking place in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region, this year’s Liwa Date Festival will occur on 15 July 2025. The event pays tribute to the UAE’s deep-rooted agricultural traditions.
The Liwa Date Festival — now in its 21st year — sheds light on the thriving date farming sector in the UAE and lends support to the farmers in the region. The event allows for the sharing of the latest agricultural practices and the exchange of knowledge on producing high-quality dates. Lectures and discussions led by experts in the field are also on the agenda if you want to learn more about the date farming culture.
At the core of the Liwa Date Festival are its fiercely contested competitions. Farmers from across the Emirates gather to present their finest produce in categories such as best Rutab (semi-ripe dates), largest cluster, and tastiest local varieties. With significant prestige and prize money at stake, winning entries can transform reputations and open doors to regional and international markets.
Alongside the competitions, date auctions provide a rare glimpse into the high-stakes world of premium date trading. Buyers, collectors, and food manufacturers bid on top-tier varieties, with prices reflecting quality, rarity and heritage.
A traditional souk lines the festival grounds, inviting visitors to explore stalls brimming with handwoven baskets, palm-frond handicrafts, locally made perfumes and artisanal Emirati delicacies.
Gastronomy plays a starring role too, with an enticing line-up of date-infused treats. Think rich date syrup, chewy pastries, and energy-packed snacks, all crafted from local ingredients. Live cooking demonstrations and tasting sessions provide an opportunity to explore the culinary versatility of this ancient fruit.
The Liwa Date Festival is also a celebration of Emirati identity, with traditional music, poetry, and dance performances. Falconry shows, camel races, and heritage workshops bring history to life, while younger guests can enjoy a dedicated children’s village.
One of Liwa Date Festival’s most-awaited events is the Best Date Fruit competition. Farms also compete for the title of Best Date Grower, sometimes winning over AED 6,000 in prizes.
Tickets to the festival are absolutely free, so make sure you attend this event and soak in more of the region’s agricultural history.
GO: Visit www.abudhabiculture.ae for more information.