As the world prepared to usher in 2025, Dubai Mall emerged as a hotspot for tourists eager to experience the renowned Burj Khalifa fireworks.
Among them were Spanish tourists Yelko Rodriguez and Javier Nieto, who arrived at the mall by 9am on December 31, ready to wait over 15 hours for the dazzling show. “Last year, we celebrated New Year’s Eve in Paris,” Yelko mentioned. “This year, we were determined to see the famous Burj Khalifa fireworks, so we came equipped with our 2025-themed glasses.”
Like many others, the duo was set on securing the ideal spot for the midnight spectacle. They joined a larger crowd at Dubai Mall, with many prepared to wait more than 15 hours to ensure a perfect view of the world’s tallest building illuminated for the occasion.
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To accommodate the vast number of spectators, Dubai provided numerous family-friendly, free viewing spots across the city, including Southridge, the outer boulevard, and Old Town. Shuttle buses facilitated transportation from various points, while a color-coded zoning system aided smooth navigation.
Guests also had the option to buy tickets to Burj Park or reserve tables at restaurants in Dubai Mall and Downtown Dubai for a prime view of the Burj Khalifa fireworks.
‘We didn’t mind spending that much’
While many visitors were willing to wait, others, like Yelko and Javier, were also ready to spend more for the privilege of celebrating in Dubai. Yelko and Javier disclosed they each spent around Dh4,000 on plane tickets.
“I last visited Dubai in January 2018, and the price was half,” Javier said. “This time, costs doubled due to New Year’s Eve, but we felt it was worth the memorable experience.”
They booked a hotel apartment near the ADCB metro station and took the metro early to Dubai Mall. They secured a spot in one of the free viewing areas on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid boulevard. “It was bustling with hundreds of people,” said Yelko. “But arriving early gave us a clear view of the Dubai Mall fountain.”
Anticipating crowds and traffic congestion, Yelko and Javier decided to walk back to their apartment after the fireworks. “Roads and metro will be packed, so we’ll walk,” said Javier. “It might take over an hour, but the weather is pleasant, and it’s these experiences that make it memorable.”
To ensure a smooth experience for everyone, the Dubai Metro operated from 5am on December 31 to midnight on January 1, easing travel for residents and tourists attending the celebrations.
‘A last-minute plan’
German tourists Joseph and Mara arrived in Dubai three days prior to celebrate the New Year, booking a hotel in Business Bay. They were at Dubai Mall by noon, exploring spots to watch the fireworks.
“The plan was to watch from our hotel,” said Joseph. “We visited Dubai Mall to explore, but seeing the festive crowd, we chose to stay and head to the free viewing area. Since we’re here, we wanted the full Dubai NYE experience. It was a spontaneous decision.”
This was the first time the couple, in their 50s, with their teenage son, celebrated New Year’s Eve in Dubai. “I visited in 2016,” said Mara. “Since then, I’ve wanted to return with family, but it never happened. This year, everything aligned, allowing us to make the trip.”
Keep up with all the fireworks and celebrations in the UAE this New Year’s Eve via the Khaleej Times live blog.
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