Liwa Oasis

Liwa Oasis Abu Dhabi

Ever dream of escaping into a desert that looks like it belongs in a movie? Welcome to Liwa Oasis, a wide stretch of date palm plantations, ancient forts, and golden dunes that seem to roll on forever. Located at the edge of Rub’ al Khali (The Empty Quarter), the world’s largest uninterrupted sand desert, Liwa is where history, culture, and nature come together in jaw-dropping style.

Covering hundreds of kilometers, Liwa Oasis has been home to the Bani Yas tribe for centuries, the very tribe from which the UAE’s ruling families descend. Today, it’s a mixture of legacy and adventure, offering visitors both quiet escapes and adrenaline-packed thrills.

A Desert of Legends and Landscapes

The dunes themselves here are not ordinary; they are among the highest in the world, with some exceeding 300 meters in height. Picturing climbing to the summit and observing the sun setting into the horizon, colouring the sand gold and red, it's not only stunning; it's the sort of view that takes your breath away.

But Liwa is more than just sand. The oasis bursts with lush date farms, some producing thousands of tons of dates each year. You’ll also spot centuries-old forts scattered across the region, once built to guard the precious water wells. For history buffs, it’s like walking into a living desert museum.

Things to Do and Highlights of Liwa Oasis

Liwa has something for all sorts of travellers. Adrenaline-seekers can plunge into dune bashing, camel trekking, and sandboarding, while others looking for relaxation can stroll around leafy palm groves or enjoy Arabic coffee in rustic males-style sessions. The oasis is also home to the Liwa Date Festival each year, which honours the UAE's beloved fruit with competitions, bazaars, and cultural events.

The Optimal Season to Visit

The ideal time to visit Liwa Oasis is from November to March. It's a time when temperatures stay between 20°C to 30°C, which is the cooler weather. Summer can be extremely hot, making it challenging to participate in outdoor activities. Winter evenings, on the other hand, are magical under a sky filled with stars.

Nearby Attractions

• Moreeb Dune: Known as one of the highest dunes in the world, it is a hotspot for dune racing.
• Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort: A luxury retreat tucked deep into the sands.
• Madinat Zayed: A small desert town with cultural sites and markets.

Where to Stay?

Liwa offers something for every traveller - from luxury desert resorts like Qasr Al Sarab to budget-friendly stays in Madinat Zayed. Many hotels and resorts also include guided desert tours, stargazing nights, and authentic Emirate dining for a complete experience.

Why Liwa Oasis is Worth the Journey

Liwa Oasis offers a glimpse into the heart of the UAE. With vast dunes, historic forts, cultural celebrations, and verdant date farms, it narrates stories of rich heritage and daring adventures. Remote, raw, and real, the oasis transforms a simple visit into an unforgettable journey. Let Captain Dunes arrange your Liwa Oasis escape, complete with guided tours, smooth transport, and experiences that go beyond ordinary travel.