If you’d like to see a different side of the UAE this summer, head to Liwa Date Festival in Al Dhafra. From July 13 to 27, 2026, you can explore one of the country’s biggest celebrations of Emirati farming, food, and heritage, and it won’t cost you anything to get in.
The festival has reached its 22nd edition and remains all about dates. Farmers from around the UAE bring their finest harvests to compete for titles like the best rutab (semi-ripe dates), the largest date cluster, and the tastiest local varieties.
Once you’ve had a look at the competitions, wander through the traditional souk. You’ll find handwoven baskets, palm-frond crafts, locally made perfumes, and plenty of Emirati products that make great gifts or souvenirs.
And make sure to come hungry, because dates appear in far more than fruit baskets. Stalls offer everything from date syrup and pastries to snacks made with local ingredients.
Live cooking demonstrations and tasting sessions will show just how versatile dates can be.
Whether you’re planning a road trip to Al Dhafra or simply looking for a free event in Abu Dhabi this July, Liwa Date Festival 2026 invites everyone to spend a day discovering local flavours, traditional crafts, and one of the UAE’s oldest farming traditions.
Planning more time in the capital? Take inspiration from Chris Hemsworth’s family trip and discover the attractions, beaches, museums, and family-friendly spots they visited while exploring Abu Dhabi.
