The New Year is almost around the corner, and everybody is flying to different destinations to enjoy the charms and celebrations of the new year. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) also prepares for its annual grandeur – a celebration that goes beyond borders and captivates the hearts of both residents and visitors alike. The New Year’s Eve festivities across the emirates are nothing short of spectacular, with iconic landmarks and picturesque settings transforming into breathtaking canvases of light and color.
If you are planning to come to the UAE for the New Year celebrations and want to see the most anticipated fireworks from the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai to the serene beaches of Umm Al Quwain, showcasing the diversity and splendor of the UAE’s New Year’s Eve extravaganzas, this article is for you! We will cover 15 exciting places to enjoy New Year’s Eve fireworks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Are you excited?
Let’s dive into it!
Atlantis, The Palm:
Located on the majestic Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis, The Palm is renowned for hosting extravagant year-end parties, and this New Year’s Eve is no exception. The iconic resort is set to welcome the legendary 17-time Grammy-winning artist, Sting, who will add a musical touch to the festivities of the New year’s eve. Guests can choose from various packages, each offering a unique vantage point for the thematic displays and choreographed sequences that have become synonymous with Atlantis’ celebrations.
From the Premium Circle to the Golden Circle, attendees are promised an unforgettable experience. The Golden Circle, priced at Dh12,500, includes not only a prime viewing spot but also a personalized caviar box and dishes with white truffle. The various restaurants within the hotel are also joining the celebrations, with options like Ossiano, where prices start at Dh2,950 per person, and Hakkasan, where diners will pay Dh1,950 each for a New Year’s Eve feast.
Burj Khalifa:
At the heart of Dubai, the Burj Khalifa stands tall as an architectural marvel and a symbol of the city’s ambition. As the clock strikes midnight, this towering structure will become the focal point for one of the most iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks displays globally.
This year, the Burj Khalifa promises its biggest show yet, featuring an impressive 325 firing positions and a staggering 15,682 pyrotechnic elements. The fireworks will dance in 2,800 directions, crafting an intricate pattern of colors and shapes that will transform the night into a magical display. Thousands of spectators will have front-row seats to this dazzling exhibition, but for those seeking a more elevated experience, numerous rooftop lounges and restaurants offer panoramic views of the mesmerizing show.
Abu Dhabi:
While Dubai takes center stage, Abu Dhabi is not to be outdone in the New Year’s Eve celebrations. The Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental hosts a packed entertainment schedule, beginning at 10 pm and culminating in the annual fireworks show. The celebration will feature a live band, DJ sets, and other performances to ensure a lively atmosphere as the clock strikes midnight.
The eight restaurants within the hotel are also joining the festivities, offering guests the opportunity to pay Dh4,500 per person for dinner and drinks from any one of them, plus access to the hotel’s after-party. For those looking for a more relaxed option, a beverage-only package is available for Dh2,500.
Sheikh Zayed Festival:
For those seeking family-friendly celebrations, the Sheikh Zayed Festival at Al Wathba is hosting a 40-minute-long fireworks display with an ambitious goal—to break a Guinness World Record in terms of size, type, and formation. The evening’s festivities begin at 4 pm and will be complemented by cultural performances on the ground, as well as other family-friendly activities.
Yas Island:
Yas Island, known for its vibrant entertainment scene and world-class attractions, promises a double delight for New Year’s Eve revelers. Two fireworks shows are scheduled—one at midnight and an earlier one at 9 pm, catering to families with younger children. Yas Marina and Yas Bay are both excellent spots to witness the spectacle, with a handful of restaurant options along the promenade providing a perfect setting to enjoy the dazzling displays.
Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah:
Ras Al Khaimah has emerged as a top destination for New Year’s Eve celebrations, with Al Marjan Island being the venue for record-setting fireworks displays. The reflections of the fireworks on the Arabian Gulf waters add a unique and enchanting element to the spectacle. The island, consisting of four interconnected islands, promises a mesmerizing visual experience that attracts people from all places.
Yas Marina, Abu Dhabi:
Known for its Formula 1 races, Yas Marina Circuit turns into a New Year’s Eve hotspot with an impressive fireworks display. Yas Island offers various vantage points, from its beaches to its dining establishments, each providing a splendid view of the fireworks. The combination of adrenaline-pumping racing vibes and the breathtaking pyrotechnics ensures an unforgettable celebration on Yas Island.
Sharjah Waterfront:
Sharjah’s New Year’s Eve celebrations have gained prominence over the years, with the waterfront area becoming a vibrant hub of activities. The firework display over the scenic waterfront is synchronized with music, creating a multi-sensory experience for spectators. The picturesque setting, combined with the artistic display of fireworks, makes Sharjah Waterfront a sought-after destination for those looking to embrace the new year in style.
Global Village, Dubai:
Global Village, Dubai’s multicultural destination, takes New Year’s Eve celebrations to a whole new level. As midnight approaches, the venue hosts multiple fireworks displays representing different time zones. Visitors can experience the joy of ringing in the New Year multiple times in one evening, each accompanied by a brilliant fireworks display. The fusion of cultures and diverse offerings at Global Village make it a unique and memorable destination for ushering in the new year.
Umm Al Quwain Beach:
For those who prefer a quieter setting to welcome the New Year, Umm Al Quwain’s serene beaches offer the perfect escape. While the fireworks may not be as grand as in some bigger cities, the charm lies in the tranquility. The gentle lapping of the waves, combined with the distant bursts of colors in the sky, provides a peaceful and intimate New Year’s Eve experience.
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Dubai:
JBR’s The Walk and The Beach are vibrant locations on any regular day, but on New Year’s Eve, they come alive with electrifying energy. With its stunning beachfront, several dining, and entertainment options, JBR offers a fabulous view of the fireworks that light up the Arabian Gulf’s horizon. The ambiance is festive, with live music performances and street shows adding to the excitement of the evening.
Qasr Al Hosn, Abu Dhabi:
Qasr Al Hosn, the oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, offers a unique vantage point to watch the fireworks on New Year’s Eve. The juxtaposition of the ancient fort, representing the Emirate’s rich history, against modern fireworks is a sight to behold. As the historic fort becomes a part of the celebrations, it adds a touch of tradition to the modern festivities, creating a fusion that is quintessentially Abu Dhabi.
Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi:
The long stretch of Corniche Beach in Abu Dhabi transforms into another prime location to witness New Year’s Eve fireworks. The beautifully maintained waterfront with its landscaped walkways, children’s play areas, and cycle paths is transformed into a festive hub. Families spread out on the beach with picnic baskets, children play in the sand, and the general atmosphere is filled with anticipation. When the fireworks light up the sky, they reflect mesmerizingly on the waters of the Arabian Gulf, creating a double spectacle.
La Mer, Dubai:
While relatively new, La Mer in Jumeirah has quickly gained popularity, especially among the younger crowd. The beachfront destination’s combination of rustic wooden aesthetics, graffiti art, and modern amenities provides a unique setting for New Year’s Eve celebrations. The fireworks display, reflecting over the sea, is a visual treat that makes La Mer a top pick for many looking to welcome the new year in a vibrant and contemporary atmosphere.
Al Qasba, Sharjah:
Al Qasba in Sharjah, known for its picturesque canals and the iconic Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates Wheel, comes alive on New Year’s Eve. The fireworks display over the canal, with the Ferris wheel in the foreground, creates a picture-perfect moment. The area has several cafes and restaurants where you can book a table in advance to ensure an uninterrupted view of the spectacle.
Conclusion
As the clock ticks down to midnight, the United Arab Emirates prepares to usher in the new year with a tapestry of celebrations that reflects the diversity and grandeur of the nation. From the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai to the serene beaches of Umm Al Quwain, each destination offers a unique experience, ensuring that residents and visitors alike create cherished memories as they welcome the dawn of a new beginning. Whether amid the glitz and glamor of Atlantis, The Palm, or the tranquility of Umm Al Quwain’s beaches, the UAE’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are a testament to the nation’s spirit, unity, and commitment to making every moment extraordinary. Which one are you excited about? If you are tired of seeing the New Year’s Eve fireworks at one place every single year, now with this article, you have got many more options to explore! Enjoy and make the most of your New Year’s Eve!
