As soon as the clock strikes midnight on December 31, the skies over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) light up with vibrant fireworks displays, signaling the start of a new year. Fireworks are an integral part of New Year’s Eve celebrations, and the Emirates 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. Get ready to enjoy a magical night with breathtaking views and a festive atmosphere you won’t want to miss.
Why UAE is the Best Destination for NYE Fireworks
Whether you’re in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, or Ras Al Khaimah, there are plenty of prime locations where you can enjoy free New Year’s Eve fireworks displays in the United Arab Emirates. From luxurious waterfronts to heritage-rich areas, these places in the Emirates are the ones to be if you want to ring in the new year with a bang without spending a single dirham. So if you are wondering where can I watch New Year fireworks for free in the United Arab Emirates, it will depend exclusively on your location and budget.
Best places to watch the New Year’s Eve Fireworks in Dubai
Dubai is famous for its extravagant New Year’s Eve celebrations, where fireworks play a central role. The emirate will offer incredible pyrotechnic displays, providing numerous opportunities to welcome 2025 with a breathtaking spectacle. The iconic Burj Khalifa hosts one of the world’s most famous fireworks shows, with live entertainment, food trucks and a carnival atmosphere at Burj Park. Atlantis, The Palm, will not only host a gala dinner with a performance by Lionel Richie, but also a dazzling fireworks show, visible from various points along the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina. At Dubai Festival City Mall, a daily fireworks show will run from December 6 to January 12, culminating in a special midnight show on New Year’s Eve.
Bluewaters and JBR will also offer beautiful midnight fireworks displays, visible from several licensed restaurants and public spaces, ideal for those who prefer a relaxed outdoor experience. Expo City Dubai will present a grand fireworks display as part of the official countdown to 2025, with celebrations broadcast live on international networks. Global Village will elevate the celebration with seven different fireworks shows from 8 pm to 1 am, making it the perfect destination for families with young children. For a unique New Year’s Eve experience, head to Hatta, where fireworks will light up the sky against the stunning backdrop of the Hajar Mountains as part of the Hatta Winter Festival. Other venues in Dubai that will offer fireworks include Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Sofitel Dubai The Palm, and many more.
Top spots in every emirate of the UAE to welcome 2025
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi will host several grandiose fireworks shows, including the world’s largest fireworks display at the Sheikh Zayed Festival at Al Wathba. This festival will feature a 50-minute fireworks display, accompanied by a Guinness World Record-breaking 6,000-drone light show. In addition, there will be a variety of cultural performances and laser shows as part of the celebrations. Yas Island, with Yas Bay and Yas Marina, will offer two fireworks displays, one at 9 p.m. and one at midnight, providing multiple opportunities to enjoy the show. The Abu Dhabi Corniche will be filled with thousands of spectators for an impressive fireworks display, with key viewing points including the Mother of the Nation Festival and nearby areas.
Other venues in Abu Dhabi that will offer New Year’s Eve fireworks include Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium in Al Ain, Liwa Festival in Al Dhafra, Public Park in Madinat Zayed, Al Dhafra, Ghayathi in Al Dhafra (behind Tamm Center) and Al Mughira Beach in Al Marfa, Al Dhafra. These venues offer a variety of options to enjoy New Year’s celebrations in a festive and vibrant environment. Get ready for an unforgettable night full of lights, colors and entertainment in Abu Dhabi.
Sharjah
Sharjah will celebrate the New Year with fireworks at three major locations. On December 31, starting at 8 p.m., residents and visitors can enjoy a varied line-up of events at three iconic waterfront locations. At Al Majaz Waterfront, enjoy a five-minute fireworks display against the backdrop of Sharjah’s beautiful skyline, along with numerous food and entertainment options.
At Al Heera Beach, witness a 10-minute fireworks show, accompanied by synchronized LED light, fire and saxophone shows. Khorfakkan Beach will offer a three-kilometer-long celebration with fireworks, laser shows and performances to welcome 2025. These events promise a magical and memorable night for all attendees.
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is famous for its epic New Year’s Eve celebrations, which include fireworks and drone shows. The emirate will present its longest New Year’s display, lasting up to 15 minutes, using drones and lasers to light up the night sky. At Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village, Ras Al Khaimah’s longest fireworks display will unfold in three acts, combining 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 viewing locations for the show. Get ready for an unforgettable night full of lights, colors and entertainment in Ras Al Khaimah, where tradition and innovation come together to welcome 2025.