Thinking of staying in this New Year’s Eve to welcome 2026? You might want to reconsider. With an array of breathtaking fireworks displays across the UAE, residents are once again spoilt for choice.
Each year, visitors flock to the UAE to usher in the new year in grand fashion. From mesmerizing drone shows to dazzling fireworks and concerts, the nation is renowned for its spectacular celebrations.
Here are some top spots where you can witness the sky light up at midnight:
Abu Dhabi
1. Abu Dhabi Corniche
Expect an enchanting fireworks display over the sparkling sea. The 8km-long corniche offers views from various spots, including the MOTN Festival, Manar at Lulu Island, and Corniche Beach.
2. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Welcome the new year with John Legend’s melodious performance and a vibrant fireworks show at this exclusive event, held on the terrace of the luxurious hotel.
3. Liwa Festival
Embrace adventure at the Liwa Festival with a captivating fireworks display at midnight. Campers and festival-goers can enjoy the show, visible from main areas around Tal Moreeb dune, Liwa Festival, and Liwa Village.
4. Sheikh Zayed Festival
This annual cultural celebration, running until March 22, honors Emirati heritage with exhibitions, performances, and global showcases.
The festival features traditional arts, crafts, cuisine, fireworks, parades, and family-friendly activities highlighting the UAE’s rich history and diversity.
5. Yas Island
Known for leisure and adventure, Yas Island will feature an impressive fireworks show.
The display can be seen from Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Marina, Yas Beach, or Manar at Samaliyah Island, with two shows at 9pm and midnight.
Dubai
6. Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa fireworks are iconic, attracting thousands worldwide to witness this grand spectacle.
7. Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis The Palm
Experience the skies light up over Palm Jumeirah, as Atlantis and the island offer stunning aerial views.
8. Expo City Dubai
Expo City Dubai will illuminate the night sky at midnight. This family-friendly destination has been a favorite since Expo 2020.
The event includes a children’s countdown at 9pm with confetti and music, followed by a midnight countdown. Tickets start at Dh150.
9. Al Seef
Ring in the new year at Al Seef, Dubai’s heritage district, with a magical fireworks display set against stunning architecture.
10. Bluewaters Island
Alongside The Beach, Bluewaters Island will host a simultaneous fireworks show that is sure to awe spectators.
11. The Beach, JBR
A top tourist spot, The Beach offers a spectacular fireworks display along its shore, near Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lakes Towers, providing breathtaking views at midnight.
12. Global Village
Global Village will light up the skies in sync with different time zones worldwide, with shows every hour from 8pm.
Sharjah
13. Al Heera Beach
The 3.5km-long beach will host a ten-minute fireworks display to welcome the new year.
14. Al Majaz Waterfront
Enjoy a five-minute fireworks show against Sharjah’s skyline, lighting up the sky beautifully.
15. Khor Fakkan Beach
Spanning over 3km, Khorfakkan Beach will feature laser shows, EL wire performances, and a ten-minute fireworks show.
Ajman
16. Ajman Corniche
This popular picnic spot will turn into a sparkling New Year’s Eve destination as 2025 begins.
Ras Al Khaimah
17. Al Marjan Island
Fireworks will be visible from multiple vantage points, including Marjan Island, the waterfront area between Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village, and RAK NYE Festival grounds.
