During Dubai’s New Year’s Eve at Burj Khalifa, a female conductor led an orchestra while suspended mid-air, creating a breathtaking visual performance that captivated audiences worldwide.
Watch: Female leads orchestra floating mid-air in stunning Burj Khalifa NYE spectacle
Just moments before the New Year’s Eve 2026 countdown at Burj Khalifa, an extraordinary spectacle unfolded — a woman conductor was gradually lifted into the air above Dubai Fountain while directing an orchestra performing beneath her.
The daring performer was Yasmina Sabah, a Lebanese conductor familiar to Dubai audiences. She previously conducted the Firdaus Orchestra during Expo 2020 and continues to appear as a guest conductor for select concerts. She has also led Lebanon’s Choeur de l’USJ. In a video shared on her Instagram account from the NYE performance, Yasmina is seen wearing a striking red gown, carefully chosen to help viewers gauge the height she reached above the ground. The outfit featured a flowing extended train, further emphasising the dramatic elevation.
As she rose skyward, Yasmina continued guiding the musicians with sweeping movements while the Burj Khalifa glowed in golden light displays. Suspended high above, she maintained her composure as the countdown to the new year began and the iconic fireworks illuminated the skyline.
Speaking recently to Lebanese newspaper Annahar, Yasmina explained how she was selected for the unconventional role. “A few months ago, I received an email asking if I could conduct an orchestra while flying,” she said. “I wasn’t sure how to respond, but I agreed. I didn’t overthink it.”
She added that several weeks later, she received confirmation that she had been chosen to lead what was described as the world’s largest New Year’s Eve celebration at Burj Khalifa, organised by Emaar.
While many might expect months of preparation for such a high-profile global event, Yasmina revealed that she arrived in Dubai only ten days before the show.
“There was intensive rehearsal, but it was an unforgettable experience bringing together artists from across the world. It was a truly remarkable production,” she said.
Reflecting on the moment just before midnight, Yasmina shared her emotions. “It felt wonderful to be flying right before the countdown, saying goodbye to 2025, and representing Lebanon in Dubai as we welcomed 2026.”
For those who missed the New Year’s Eve performance, Yasmina confirmed she will repeat the airborne display daily at Burj Khalifa until January 7. The show will also be streamed on YouTube.
The performance quickly gained attention on social media, with viewers around the world praising both the visual impact and the artistic ambition behind the concept. Clips of Yasmina conducting while suspended in the air were widely shared, with many calling it one of the most memorable moments of the Burj Khalifa’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. Music lovers and casual viewers alike expressed admiration for her poise, precision and confidence while performing at such a height. Commentators noted that blending classical music with large-scale spectacle helped introduce orchestral performance to new audiences in a striking, modern way.
Event organisers said the concept was designed to symbolise elevation, unity and hope as the world welcomed a new year. The visual of a conductor rising above the orchestra was meant to reflect the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together. Technical teams worked closely with artists to ensure the performance was both safe and seamless. Engineers, rigging specialists and safety coordinators rehearsed extensively to guarantee stability, allowing the conductor to focus entirely on leading the musicians without distraction.
Members of the orchestra later described the experience as unforgettable. Playing beneath a conductor suspended high above them required intense concentration and trust, but many said it strengthened their sense of connection. Musicians noted that despite the unusual setup, Yasmina’s gestures remained clear and expressive, enabling them to perform confidently. Several performers said the moment felt historic, combining innovation, artistry and emotion on one of the world’s most visible stages.
Cultural commentators highlighted the significance of a female conductor leading such a globally watched event. They said her presence challenged traditional perceptions within classical music and showcased the growing diversity of leadership on international stages. Yasmina’s role was seen as a powerful statement about representation and opportunity, particularly for women in conducting. Many young musicians and aspiring conductors expressed inspiration, saying the performance demonstrated that classical music continues to evolve and embrace bold, contemporary ideas.
As Dubai continues to position itself as a global hub for arts and entertainment, performances like this underline the city’s ambition to merge culture with spectacle. Officials said future celebrations will continue to explore creative ways to showcase talent from around the world. For Yasmina, the experience marked a career milestone, blending courage and artistry at an unprecedented scale. Audiences now look forward to her upcoming daily performances, which promise to recreate the magic beyond New Year’s Eve.
