The UAE is preparing multiple countdown celebrations and an ambitious world record attempt, showcasing grand fireworks, light shows and nationwide festivities as the country ushers in 2026 on New Year’s Eve.
From seven countdowns to a record-breaking bid: How the UAE plans to welcome 2026 on New Year’s Eve
As the UAE gets ready to usher in 2026, residents and tourists alike are finalising their New Year’s Eve plans, spoilt for choice with a wide range of celebrations across the country.
Each year, the Emirates attracts visitors from around the globe with its grand, meticulously organised festivities. Known for pushing boundaries, the UAE delivers unforgettable New Year experiences through record-setting fireworks, dazzling visuals and carefully coordinated safety arrangements.
Here’s a look at how the nation plans to welcome 2026:
Public holidays
January 1, 2026 has been officially declared a public holiday for employees in both the public and private sectors. This gives residents the chance to relax, celebrate with loved ones and recharge before the year begins in full swing.
Government employees have an added perk, with the option to work remotely on January 2, subject to job requirements.
Fireworks across the country
Excitement is building around the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks, with residents reporting nightly testing of lights, lasers and music in the lead-up to December 31. These rehearsals offer a glimpse of the spectacular show expected to draw global attention.
Beyond Downtown Dubai, fireworks displays are planned at more than 60 locations nationwide, ensuring residents across the UAE can enjoy colourful celebrations closer to home.
Seven countdown celebrations
Dubai’s Global Village will once again host its popular multi-time-zone celebrations, marking the arrival of 2026 with seven separate countdowns representing different countries.
Visitors can enjoy fireworks and drone shows welcoming the New Year in China at 8pm, Thailand at 9pm, Bangladesh at 10pm, India at 10.30pm, Pakistan at 11pm, Dubai at midnight, and Turkey at 1am. The venue’s three gates will remain open from 4pm until 2am to accommodate crowds.
A bid for world records
Abu Dhabi’s Al Wathba will host one of the most ambitious New Year celebrations in the country, with organisers aiming to set five new Guinness World Records. Plans include a 62-minute continuous fireworks display, cultural performances and a cutting-edge drone show featuring 6,500 drones flying simultaneously during a 20-minute sequence.
Drone shows light up the skies
Drone displays will also take centre stage in Dubai, with Dubai Frame hosting its first-ever New Year drone show. Additional performances are planned at JBR and Global Village, adding a futuristic element to the celebrations.
Safety, security and traffic management
Given the scale of the festivities, authorities have rolled out extensive security and traffic plans. Police and transport agencies have spent weeks coordinating to ensure crowd safety and smoother movement across key areas.
Abu Dhabi Police have issued safety guidelines for motorists, while Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority will implement phased road closures to manage traffic flow on December 31.
Eight days of celebration with Bollywood flair
For the first time, Downtown Dubai’s New Year festivities will extend over eight days, running from December 31, 2025 to January 7, 2026.
Developer Emaar has announced a packed programme featuring live entertainment, fireworks, immersive installations and a large-scale parade through the district. Burj Park’s ticketed experience will also include a Bollywood-themed spectacle curated by Indian superstar Shah Rukh Khan, adding a unique cultural twist to the celebrations.
Family-friendly celebrations across emirates
Beyond the headline events, several family-oriented destinations across the UAE are offering curated New Year’s Eve experiences designed for all age groups. Theme parks, beachside resorts and community venues are organising early fireworks, live entertainment and interactive activities that allow families with young children to celebrate without staying out late. Many hotels are also hosting special gala dinners with supervised kids’ zones, ensuring parents can enjoy the festivities worry-free. From Ras Al Khaimah’s waterfront celebrations to Sharjah’s cultural venues, these events reflect the UAE’s focus on inclusive entertainment that caters to residents and visitors of all ages.
Hospitality sector prepares for peak demand
Hotels across the country are operating at near-full capacity as demand for New Year’s Eve stays surges. Luxury resorts, city hotels and desert retreats have introduced themed packages combining accommodation, dining and exclusive access to firework viewing areas. Many venues have also increased staffing levels and extended service hours to meet the expected influx of guests. Restaurants are offering fixed-price menus and reservation-only dining to manage crowds effectively. Industry insiders say the strong bookings highlight the UAE’s continued appeal as a global New Year destination, particularly for travellers seeking large-scale yet well-organised celebrations.
Tourism boost and global spotlight
The scale of the UAE’s New Year festivities is expected to provide a significant boost to the tourism and retail sectors. Malls, attractions and entertainment districts are preparing for extended operating hours, while retailers anticipate increased footfall driven by holiday shoppers and celebratory crowds. Globally broadcast fireworks and drone shows will once again place the UAE in the international spotlight, reinforcing its reputation for hosting world-class events. Tourism officials believe the celebrations will not only mark the start of 2026 but also set a strong tone for visitor numbers and economic activity in the year ahead.
