Watch fireworks at these spots in the UAE

As the clock strikes midnight on December 31, the skies across the UAE will be illuminated with vibrant fireworks displays, signaling the start of a new year.

Fireworks are an integral part of New Year’s Eve celebrations, and the UAE offers some of the most spectacular shows.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best fireworks displays in the UAE, including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, and more.

Dubai

Dubai is renowned for its extravagant New Year’s Eve celebrations, and fireworks play a central role in the festivities. The emirate will host incredible fireworks displays, providing plenty of opportunities to ring in 2025 with a bang.

Burj Khalifa
The iconic Burj Khalifa hosts one of the world’s most famous New Year’s Eve fireworks displays. Expect a breathtaking show, with live entertainment, food trucks, and a carnival-like atmosphere at Burj Park.

Atlantis, The Palm
Atlantis will not only host a star-studded gala dinner with Lionel Richie performing but also a dazzling firework display.

The show can be viewed from various points along Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina.

Dubai Festival City Mall
At Festival Bay, a daily firework display runs from December 6 to January 12.

On New Year’s Eve, the midnight show will cap off the Dubai Shopping Festival celebrations.

Bluewaters & JBR
Both Bluewaters and JBR will host beautiful fireworks at midnight, visible from various licensed restaurants and public spaces. The beachside locations are ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, open-air experience.

Expo City Dubai
Expo City will feature a grand firework display as part of the official countdown to 2025. As a global hub for innovation, Expo City’s celebrations will also be broadcast live on international networks.

Global Village
Global Village is taking things up a notch with seven different fireworks shows starting at 8 pm and running until 1 am. This makes it the perfect family-friendly destination for those celebrating New Year’s Eve with younger children.

Hatta
For a unique New Year’s Eve experience, head to Hatta, where fireworks will light up the skies against the backdrop of the stunning Hajar Mountains as part of the Hatta Winter Festival.

At a glance: Other venues in Dubai offering NYE fireworks

1. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort
2. Jumeirah Golf Estates
3. Sofitel Dubai The Palm
4. Arabian Ranches Golf Club
5. One and Only Royal Mirage Hotel
6. Al Seef
7. Emirates Golf Club
8. Dubai Frame
9. Palazzo Versace Dubai
10. Jumeirah Beach Hotel
11. Dubai Parks and Resorts
12. Four Seasons Jumeirah Beach
13. Al Saif Street
14. Address Montgomerie Dubai
15. Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort
16. JA Beach Hotel Jabel Ali
17. J1 Beach (La Mer)
18. Terra Solis
19. Bulgari Hotels and Resorts
20. Park Hyatt Dubai Hotel
21. Nshama Town Square
22. One and Only Hotel The Palm
23. Five Palm Jumeirah Hotel
24. Al Marmoom Oasis Camp
25. Voco Monaco Dubai
26. Nikki Beach Resort Dubai
27. Blu Oasis Resort
28. Dubai Design District
29. Top Golf Dubai

Read: NYE 2025 – Dubai unveils security, safety plans for festivities

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Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi will host several grand fireworks shows, including the world’s largest fireworks display, set at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba.

Sheikh Zayed Festival
The festival will feature a 50-minute fireworks display, accompanied by a 6,000-drone light show that aims to break Guinness World Records.

A variety of cultural performances and laser shows will also be part of the celebrations.

Yas Island 
Yas Bay and Yas Marina will host two fireworks displays — one at 9 pm and another at midnight — providing ample viewing opportunities.

Abu Dhabi Corniche 
The corniche’s waterfront will be lined with thousands of spectators for a stunning firework display, with key viewing spots including the Mother of the Nation Festival and nearby areas.

At a glance: Other spots in Abu Dhabi featuring NYE firework displays

Sharjah

Sharjah will host fireworks at three major locations to celebrate the new year. On December 31, from 8pm onwards, residents and visitors can enjoy a diverse lineup of events across three iconic waterfront locations.

Al Majaz Waterfront
Enjoy a five-minute fireworks show against the backdrop of Sharjah’s beautiful skyline, with plenty of food and entertainment options.

Al Heera Beach 
Witness a 10-minute fireworks display, along with synchronised LED, fire, and saxophone shows, at Al Heera Beach.

Khorfakkan Beach 
Khorfakkan Beach will have a three-kilometre-long celebration, featuring fireworks, laser shows, and performances to usher in 2025.

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Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah is known for its epic New Year’s Eve celebrations, which include fireworks and drone shows.

The emirate will host its longest NYE display, lasting up to 15 minutes, using drones and lasers to light up the night sky.

Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village
Ras Al Khaimah’s longest-ever firework show will unfold in three acts. The show combines traditional fireworks with cutting-edge drone technology to celebrate the emirate’s cultural heritage.

RAK’s picturesque beaches, hotels, and landmarks will also offer prime spots to view the show.

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Tips for enjoying NYE 2025 fireworks in the UAE

• Arrive early: Many locations, especially Dubai, are expected to get crowded, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
• Dress comfortably: Since many events are outdoors, bring comfortable clothing and be prepared for the cooler weather in the evenings.
• Plan your transport: Traffic and road closures are common on New Year’s Eve, so plan your route in advance, or consider using public transport or taxis.