As the countdown begins, here are the most dazzling firework displays in Abu Dhabi and Dubai – and where to watch them for free.
Whether it’s the countdown to midnight or singing Auld Lang Syne, everyone has their own New Year’s Eve traditions. One tradition that we can’t do without is New Year’s Eve fireworks displays, and the UAE sure knows how to put on a show.
So, whether you’re after dancing fountains or drone displays, which the gram will never do justice to, we’ve got you covered. Best of all, you don’t have to spend the big bucks, as there are superb spots to watch the sky light up for free. Just make sure you get there early and nab your spot, as 2026 awaits.
Here’s where to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks in the UAE.
Dubai
Where to watch Burj Khalifa’s New Year’s Eve fireworks
The Burj Khalifa has one of the most famous fireworks displays in the UAE, if not the world. With images of this spectacle getting beamed across the globe, you know you are watching a blockbuster show. This year, it’s outdoing itself, as it is set to host New Year celebrations for eight entire days. Expect a Bollywood addition along with parades and live entertainment all week long.
Dubai Mall
With its cafes on the pavements and restaurants with terraces, you have plenty of options in and outside The Dubai Mall. The next option is to go to the walkway between The Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar, which will give you a great view of the New Year’s Eve fireworks display and the dancing fountains.
Dubai Water Canal
The canal provides a great view of the Burj Khalifa’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display. This 3.2km walkway is serene during the year but busy on New Year’s Eve. Spanning from Business Bay to Old Dubai, there are well-positioned bridges where you can get those seasonal snaps. Plus, depending on where you stand, you may well get to catch more shows across town.
Souk Al Bahar
The bridges of Souk Al Bahar offer a widescreen view of The Burj Khalifa. Overlooking the fountains, this is a hot spot to see the New Year’s Eve fireworks display and dancing fountains. While there are public benches, these are not situated at the front of the action. So, try to get to the front, as it will be worth it.
Where to watch Burj Al Arab’s New Year’s Eve fireworks
The iconic Burj Al Arab’s New Year’s Eve firework display is always a showstopper. This year’s party offerings include a four-course meal and performers in the atrium at Sahn Eddar and under the stars at Sal. So, if you don’t have the cash, there are other ways of catching a glimpse of the fireworks.
Black Palace Beach
What makes this spot special is that it’s in between Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab. Translated: two firework displays from one location. Black Palace Beach is a hidden gem, and it has earned the nickname Secret Beach. Don’t expect any amenities here, as there are no sun loungers or restaurants – just you and the beach. Oh, and the fireworks.
J1 Beach
Choose to dine at one of the restaurants at J1 Beach, and you’ll be able to secure a decent view of the Burj Khalifa fireworks. Apart from the dazzling display, the restaurants will be hosting their own celebrations, so you’re guaranteed to have a great time.
Kite Beach
This family-friendly spot is a great place to see Burj Al Arab’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display. Whether you’re walking along the 14-kilometre running track or with sand between your toes on the beach, it boasts an uninterrupted view of the beautiful building all lit up.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Souk Madinat Jumeirah has plenty of (what feels like) front-row seats to Burj Al Arab. Thanks to its location, it’s probably one of the closest places you can see the fireworks. Take your pick from one of the many restaurant terraces. Plus, you’re more than welcome to grab a spot on one of the walkways or bridges and just enjoy the vibes.
Umm Suqeim Park
Expect to see big families gathering at Umm Suqeim Park, as the park is primarily for children, women and families. It has a relaxed atmosphere, as you’ll often find kids on the swings or sandpit and people picnicking. As it’s located behind Burj Al Arab, it’s a fabulous spot to watch the fireworks. Plus, you’ll feel the sea breeze as you see in the new year.
Where to watch Palm Jumeirah’s New Year’s Eve fireworks
On New Year’s Eve, Palm Jumeirah is alight with firework displays. The biggest display in Dubai comes courtesy of Atlantis, The Palm’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. The event welcomes the singing sensation Lionel Richie and hosts a dazzling fireworks display – to enter. However, you need a spare AED 4,500. Fear not; there are other options which cost zero dirhams.
Al Seef
Al Seef is offering a midnight fireworks show in its charming, old-meets-new waterfront area. While waiting for the display, you can enjoy plenty of dining options, including Al Fanar Seafood, Nablus, and Doors Freestyle Grill.
Atlantis The Palm
If you want to watch the fireworks up close, make your way to Atlantis The Palm. Not only do you get an exciting display in the sky, but you also get to enjoy the countdown as Maroon 5 takes to the stage, promising a banging entry into 2026.
Bluewaters Island
While Bluewaters Island is calm throughout the year, New Year’s Eve is a whole other ball game. Offering a great view of the fireworks at Palm Jumeirah. You can also enjoy the drone and laser show to ring in 2026.
Club Vista Mare
Club Vista Mare is a gorgeous spot to see in the new year. The promenade is hosting its own New Year’s Eve fireworks display, which is free for anyone to watch. We’d recommend finding a spot on the lovely stretch of beach and enjoying the stunning views, which include Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah.
Expo City Dubai
Expo City Dubai is hosting New Year’s Eve celebrations at Al Wasl Plaza. The evening starts with a family-friendly event that includes children’s music, a fun confetti countdown, and a projection show on the Al Wasl dome. And at midnight, a main countdown will be followed by fireworks.
Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk
At Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, there’s plenty of room to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks displays. The walk spans 11 kilometres, it’s six metres wide and is built over the rocks of The Palm’s breakwater. Plus, when you get the midnight munchies, there should be food trucks. We’d recommend hopping onto the monorail and avoiding the roads.
Palm West Beach
Whether you want to book a table at one of the beach clubs, from Surf Club to SĀN Beach, or simply stroll down this wonderful walkway, it’s a buzzing spot to catch the New Year’s Eve fireworks on Palm Jumeirah. The location should also mean that you see the sky light up Atlantis, The Palm at Club Vista Mare.
The Beach JBR
One of the most popular spots during New Year’s Eve is The Beach JBR. Not only do you get to stroll around, enjoy delicious food, but also get a great view of the fireworks at Palm Jumeirah that take place between Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal. Plus, this spot includes a drone and laser show. Just make sure you get there nice and early to get a good parking spot, or better yet, use a metro and tram.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Corniche
Grab a spot in one of the restaurants or bars, which sprawl out onto the pavements, so you can watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks display in the UAE. As it’s one of the most popular and longest-running fireworks shows in the capital, expect big crowds. Plus, since the corniche runs for eight kilometres, we won’t judge you for saving on the dirhams by strolling or standing.
Al Maryah Island
Come for the fireworks, stay for the bars and restaurants. Al Maryah Island is a great spot to catch some free fireworks and enjoy some fabulous food. The display takes place at Boardwalk, and we’d recommend arriving early, so you can soak up the atmosphere. Otherwise, you’ll have to settle for watching on the big screens.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi
For a touch of luxury, the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi hosts a regal fireworks display. Against the opulent backdrop of the palace, the fireworks add a touch of grandeur, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate a lavish celebration. It’s also a perfect excuse to dine at the FACT award winning Strawfire or watch the New Year’s Eve performance by John Legend.
Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain
A short drive away from the capital, Al Ain’s Hazza Bin Zayed offers a serene escape. Here, the fireworks add a touch of magic to the desert night, creating an intimate and enchanting celebration.
Liwa Festival
If you’re heading to the Liwa Festival in Al Dhafra, you can enjoy a fireworks show at midnight. The display will be visible not only from the festival grounds but also from all major spots around the Tal Moreeb dune, Liwa Festival, and Liwa Village, making it easy for all to watch.
Sheikh Zayed Festival
You may think that five dirhams can’t get you much, but in Abu Dhabi, you get a ticket to Sheikh Zayed Festival’s spectacular fireworks display. The location hosts weekly fireworks shows – yes, really. On New Year’s Eve, this is turned up a notch. In true UAE style, expect dancing fountains, lasers and holograms.
Yas Bay
Yas Bay is a great choice for families and big groups. The exciting waterfront, with its cafés, bars and restaurants, is a stellar spot to see Yas Island’s fireworks displays. Not content with just one firework display, there are two: one at the child-friendly time of 9pm and another at midnight. So, sit back and watch as the capital lights up in an array of colours.
Sharjah
Al Heera Beach
Known for its dining and entertainment options, Al Heera Beach will celebrate New Year’s Eve with a 10-minute fireworks display lighting up the shoreline. Expect a fun atmosphere to celebrate a great start.
Al Majaz Waterfront
Sharjah’s popular family-friendly spot, Al Majaz Waterfront, is continuing its yearly New Year’s Eve tradition. You can enjoy various attractions and celebrations, topped off with a five-minute fireworks show to welcome 2026.
Khor Fakkan Beach
Khor Fakkan Beach will host New Year’s festivities along with a 10-minute fireworks show at midnight. You can enjoy a lively, waterfront setting, making for a great start to 2026.
Ras Al Khaimah
Al Marjan Island
Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah offers a coastal extravaganza as fireworks dance over the waters. Welcome the New Year with a spectacular display of fireworks, which are often Guinness World Record breakers, and the promise of a bright 2025 ahead.
