Liwa is about 300 km southwest of Abu Dhabi city, a drive of roughly three hours on the E11 highway via Madinat Zayed. There is no public transport to or within Liwa — a car is essential, and a 4x4 is strongly recommended if you plan to venture off the tarmac onto the dunes. Hire cars are available in Abu Dhabi city and at the airport; make sure your insurance covers off-road driving if you intend to use it.
Fuel up in Madinat Zayed before heading south — petrol stations become sparse along the Liwa road. Bring water. Mobile coverage is thin in the more remote areas of the oasis.