Celebrate New Year’s Eve in the UAE like never before—soar in hot air balloons, dive into underwater parties, and enjoy unforgettable experiences blending adventure, luxury, and spectacular festivities.
From Sky-High Balloon Rides to Underwater Bashes: Unforgettable New Year’s Eve Experiences in the UAE
As New Year’s Eve draws near, celebrations across the UAE are moving beyond the usual fireworks hotspots.
From dining beneath the waves to adventures in the desert and breathtaking experiences high above the city, more events are giving people unique ways to welcome 2026—often in locations that are less crowded and offer a fresh perspective.
1. Ring in New Year from hot air balloon at Atlantis
At Atlantis The Palm, visitors can enjoy a tethered hot air balloon ride for a unique aerial view of the New Year’s Eve fireworks. The NYE Sky Carnival features two balloon flights: an early evening session from 7pm to 10pm, and a post-midnight flight from 1am to 2am.
From high above, participants can take in fireworks displays over Atlantis, JBR, the Burj Al Arab, and nearby areas. The event also includes on-ground entertainment and a reflective activity where guests can write down their intentions for the coming year.
Ticket prices start at Dh500 per person for balcony seating, while outdoor tables for up to four guests are available for Dh2,000. VIP tables accommodating four guests are priced at Dh3,000.
2. Watch fireworks from water on a night kayak
For those who enjoy being on the water, certain water sports companies are offering guided night kayaking and paddleboarding excursions on New Year’s Eve. According to Crystal Clear Watersports, the routes offer sights of landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah Bay Island, and the area around the Four Seasons Hotel, letting participants enjoy the fireworks from the water.
Pricing depends on the chosen package and the length of the session. These experiences are designed for small groups and prioritize tranquil waters over speed or competitive performance.
3. Dine beneath the ocean at Ossiano
Ossiano will ring in the New Year with a multi-course dinner in its stunning underwater dining room.
The special New Year’s Eve menu is priced at Dh1,500 per person, with service beginning at 7 pm on December 31. After the meal, guests are escorted to selected spots to enjoy the fireworks display at Atlantis, The Palm.
This experience blends gourmet dining with a more intimate celebration, providing a peaceful alternative to big, crowded parties.
4. Count-down 50 metres in the air at Dinner in the Sky Dubai
Dinner in the Sky Dubai is offering a unique suspended dining experience this New Year’s Eve, where guests will enjoy a meal at a table lifted around 50 metres above the ground. The event will take place from 10:30 pm until midnight and features a multi-course menu.
Tickets are available starting at Dh1,400 per person, according to the organisers. Attendees will get spectacular views of Palm Jumeirah, JBR, and Dubai Marina as the city welcomes the New Year.
5. Escape the city with a desert New Year in Liwa
For those wanting to skip the city celebrations, Liwa offers a desert retreat for New Year’s Eve. The Liwa Moreeb Dune Festival, also called the Liwa International Festival, takes place from late December through early January in the Liwa Oasis, Abu Dhabi.
Visitors can enjoy dune-climbing contests, car and motorcycle races, and evening entertainment under the vast desert sky. While general entry to the festival is usually free, some activities or competitions may require separate fees.
Instead of fireworks, the festival emphasizes motorsports, desert traditions, and large outdoor gatherings.
