Top 9 Places for Dubai New Years Celebration 2026

1. Burj Khalifa

Standing at an impressive 828 meters, the glass-structured Burj Khalifa transforms into the epicenter of Dubai's New Year festivities each year. This architectural marvel serves as the perfect backdrop for one of the world's most-watched celebrations, attracting visitors from across the globe.

Burj Khalifa Fireworks

The Burj Khalifa New Year's Eve fireworks display ranks among the most spectacular pyrotechnic shows globally. As midnight approaches, anticipation builds among the gathered crowds. Once the clock strikes twelve, an extraordinary explosion of lights illuminates Dubai's skyline, creating a mesmerizing visual feast.

This breathtaking display lasts approximately 20 minutes, making it one of the longest fireworks shows worldwide. Each year follows a unique theme - previous celebrations included "togetherness" (2020), "time and progression" (2019), and "City of the Future" (2015).

The 2013 celebration even set a Guinness World Record for the largest fireworks display, featuring 479,651 shells. Additionally, the 2018 show earned records for the "largest LED-illuminated facade" and the "tallest LED-illuminated facade".

Burj Khalifa Experience

The atmosphere surrounding Burj Khalifa on December 31st is electric. People hold their breath until midnight, creating a shared moment of anticipation that culminates in collective awe when the show begins.

For optimal viewing experiences, consider these strategic locations:

• Dubai Fountain area (arrive before 9 PM as crowds gather quickly)
• Apple Store at Dubai Mall balconies
• Dubai Opera House (minutes away from Burj Khalifa)

Alternatively, Burj Park offers a serene setting with uninterrupted views of the spectacle. The multimedia experience typically includes synchronized fountain shows, laser displays, and LED illuminations alongside the fireworks.

Burj Khalifa Ticket Pricing

While viewing the fireworks from many public areas remains free, Burj Park offers a premium experience with guaranteed unobstructed views:

• Adults: AED 580 (includes AED 60 F&B voucher)
• Children (5-12 years): AED 370 (includes AED 30 F&B voucher)
• Children under 5: Free

Importantly, badge collection is mandatory for Burj Park access, available from December 26-30 at Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, or Dubai Marina Mall. No badge collection is available on December 31st, so planning ahead is essential.

The venue provides picnic tables, drum tables, and bean bag seating (first-come basis), separate restrooms, and special areas for children with workshops. Furthermore, party packs can be purchased on-site to enhance your celebration experience.

2. Luxury Dinner Cruise

For an elegant twist to your new year celebration in Dubai, step aboard a luxury dinner cruise where the city's magnificent skyline becomes the backdrop to your festivities. These floating venues offer a unique perspective of Dubai's grandeur while you indulge in fine dining and entertainment.

Luxury Dinner Cruise Experience

Most luxury cruises for New Year's Eve operate for approximately 3-4 hours, concluding shortly after the midnight fireworks. Upon boarding, friendly staff welcome you with complimentary refreshments and snacks, setting the tone for an evening of indulgence. These vessels feature tastefully decorated interiors with both lower air-conditioned decks and open upper decks for panoramic views.

The culinary experience stands as a highlight with international gala buffets offering extensive vegetarian and non-vegetarian options alongside BBQ selections. Top chefs prepare delicacies that satisfy diverse palates, complemented by unlimited soft drinks and water throughout the evening.

Entertainment adds another dimension to the experience with live Tanura dance performances by skilled artists. As midnight approaches, the celebration intensifies with music, countdown festivities, and a special New Year's cake cutting ceremony.

Luxury Dinner Cruise Fireworks View

Perhaps the most compelling reason to choose a cruise for your new years eve Dubai experience is the unparalleled vantage point for fireworks displays. Depending on your chosen route, you'll witness spectacular pyrotechnics from multiple iconic locations.

Dubai Marina cruises provide views of fireworks at JBR, Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters Island, and Ain Dubai. Meanwhile, Dubai Canal cruises offer perfect vantage points for the Burj Khalifa and Festival City fireworks displays.

The Creek routes showcase fireworks in the Deira and Bur Dubai areas, combining traditional and modern Dubai in one spectacular viewing experience. Regardless of which route you select, the unobstructed water views provide a magical perspective impossible to achieve from land-based locations.

Luxury Dinner Cruise Pricing

Pricing varies significantly based on the vessel type, deck selection, and included amenities:

Dubai Marina Cruises:

• Lower Deck: AED 650 per person
• Upper Deck: AED 999 per person

Dubai Canal Cruises (with Burj Khalifa views):

• Standard options start from USD 395 (approximately AED 1,450) per adult
• Premium options with enhanced experiences reach USD 435 (approximately AED 1,600) per adult

VIP Dhow Cruise Options:

• Main Deck: AED 990 per person
• Middle Deck: AED 1,290 per person
• Top Deck: AED 1,690 per person
• VIP Deck: AED 2,490 per person

3. Dubai Festival City Mall

Beyond the iconic skyscrapers, Dubai Festival City Mall transforms into a captivating celebration hub each New Year's Eve, offering a perfect family-friendly venue for welcoming 2026.

Festival City Events

Dubai Festival City Mall hosts spectacular festivities as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival running from December 2025 to January 2026. This shopping and entertainment extravaganza creates the perfect backdrop for new year celebrations, combining retail therapy with festive entertainment.

The centerpiece of Festival City's new year offerings is the bespoke IMAGINE show, an impressive laser and light spectacle that mesmerizes visitors. This multimedia production synchronizes water, light, and sound in a breathtaking display that complements the midnight celebrations.

Moreover, the venue offers various entertainment options throughout the evening. Previous celebrations featured performances by notable artists like Mahmoud El Esseily and Rola Kadri, creating an electric atmosphere as midnight approaches. Typically, the festivities begin around 8:00 PM, with DJs warming up the crowd before the main performances commence.

The celebrations particularly cater to families, with kid-friendly activities and special arrangements ensuring visitors of all ages enjoy the experience. The venue's host engages the crowd with competitions offering prizes worth up to AED 1,000, adding an extra element of excitement to the evening.

Festival City Fireworks

As midnight approaches, anticipation builds for the spectacular fireworks display that illuminates the Dubai Creek area. The Festival City fireworks show forms part of Dubai's coordinated pyrotechnic displays across multiple locations.

The fireworks are perfectly integrated with the IMAGINE show and live concerts, creating a synchronized multimedia experience. This careful coordination provides an immersive sensory experience as you welcome the new year. For optimal viewing, the exclusive Festival Bay area offers direct, uninterrupted views of both the fireworks and IMAGINE show.

Festival City Ticket Pricing

To ensure the best experience with guaranteed views, Festival City Mall offers ticketed entry to Festival Bay:

• Adults: AED 150 per person
• Children (5-12 years): AED 90 per person
• Children under 5: Free entry
• Family package options also available

Each ticket includes an access wristband distributed at the entrance. Although the event offers standing room only (no seats provided), the unobstructed views of both the fireworks and performances justify the ticket price.

Food and beverages can be purchased separately within Festival Bay, with various food trucks and stalls available throughout the venue. Subsequently, this creates a complete evening experience where you can dine, be entertained, and witness spectacular fireworks without leaving the venue.

4. Global Village

Experience a truly international new year celebration in Dubai at Global Village, where you'll witness not just one but seven different countdowns across multiple time zones. This multicultural wonderland stands out as the only place in UAE where you can celebrate the arrival of 2026 multiple times in a single night.

Global Village Fireworks

Global Village transforms New Year's Eve into an extraordinary spectacle with seven spectacular fireworks displays, each synchronized to different time zones around the world. The celebrations kick off at 8 PM local time marking midnight in China, followed by:

• Thailand (9 PM)
• Bangladesh (10 PM)
• India (10:30 PM)
• Pakistan (11 PM)
• UAE (12 AM)
• Turkey (1 AM)

Each countdown culminates in its own breathtaking fireworks display, creating a continuous celebration throughout the evening. For optimal viewing, head to the dedicated Fireworks Avenue featuring a brand new fountain and comfortable seating area specifically designed to provide the best vantage points of the pyrotechnic shows.

Global Village Cultural Shows

Beyond the fireworks, Global Village delivers an immersive cultural experience with performances from over 40 countries. Last season, guests enjoyed an extraordinary array of over 40,000 shows and world-class entertainment that captured imaginations and left visitors in awe.

Throughout New Year's Eve, the Main Stage hosts electrifying performances alongside a DJ spinning global tunes all night long. The entertainment extends beyond the stage with roaming acts throughout the park. In true Global Village style, each country's celebration includes a spectacular cultural show alongside the fireworks display.

Global Village Entry Fee

Indeed, the most surprising aspect of this world-class celebration is its affordability compared to other New Year venues. Entry tickets remain remarkably accessible:

• Weekday Ticket (Sun-Thu, excluding holidays): AED 25
• Any-Day Ticket (valid for New Year's Eve): AED 30

Children under 3 years enter free of charge, while those between 3-12 years require a child voucher. Likewise, People of Determination and seniors above 65 years enjoy complimentary entry.

Gates open at 4 PM on December 31st, with extended hours until 2 AM on January 1st. Notably, Saturday, December 31st is exclusively reserved for ladies and families. For the best experience, arrive by 5 PM to explore the various attractions before the celebrations begin.

5. Madinat Jumeirah
 

Nestled beside the iconic Burj Al Arab, Souk Madinat Jumeirah offers a unique blend of traditional Arabian charm and modern luxury for an unforgettable new year celebration in Dubai. This beautiful shopping and entertainment complex recreates the atmosphere of an old Arabic market while providing front-row seats to one of the city's most spectacular fireworks displays.

Madinat Jumeirah Gala Dinner

The centerpiece of Madinat Jumeirah's New Year's festivities is the Ultimate Gala Dinner held in the grand Madinat Jumeirah Arena. This spectacular event promises an exceptional culinary journey featuring extensive live cooking stations and unlimited beverages throughout the evening. As you dine, an 11-piece band provides outstanding entertainment, creating an electric atmosphere as midnight approaches.

The celebration begins at 8:00 PM and continues well into the early hours, with the main festivities lasting until 12:30 AM, followed by an exciting after-party that extends until 2:00 AM. Consequently, this creates a comprehensive evening experience where you can enjoy dinner, entertainment, and fireworks without changing venues.

Madinat Jumeirah Fireworks

In essence, Madinat Jumeirah offers what many consider the perfect vantage point for witnessing the breathtaking Burj Al Arab fireworks display. Given its strategic location, this venue provides some of the closest possible views of this spectacular pyrotechnic show.

Various viewing options exist throughout the complex, including:

• Restaurant terraces overlooking the waterways
• Walkways and bridges offering unobstructed views
• The Arena's designated viewing areas with the Burj Al Arab as backdrop

For a more casual yet equally magical experience, consider bringing a beach mat to one of Jumeirah's public beaches, where you can enjoy the starlit sky and stunning fireworks display in a more relaxed setting.

Madinat Jumeirah Pricing

Madinat Jumeirah offers various packages to suit different preferences and budgets for the New Year's Eve celebrations. The pricing structure includes:

• Silver Package: Starting option
• Gold Package: AED 15,000
• Platinum Package: AED 22,000
• Black Package: Premium experience
• Royal Package: Ultimate luxury option

Each package includes different amenities, seating arrangements, and beverage options. Furthermore, Madinat Jumeirah is home to three hotels and over 50 exquisite restaurants, providing numerous alternatives for celebrating the arrival of 2026.

For those seeking an elevated experience to welcome the new year, Madinat Jumeirah undoubtedly stands as one of Dubai's most sophisticated and visually stunning celebration venues.

6. La Mer

For beachfront enthusiasts seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, La Mer and Al Seef stand out as prime destinations for your new years eve Dubai experience. These waterfront gems offer distinctive atmospheres where modern luxury meets traditional charm.

La Mer Fireworks

As the clock nears midnight, La Mer's picturesque waterfront transforms into a spectacular viewing platform for dazzling fireworks displays. This beachside haven provides unobstructed views of the illuminated sky, allowing you to welcome 2026 amidst a vibrant coastal setting. The atmosphere at La Mer during this special night remains cozy yet festive, creating the perfect backdrop for memorable new year photographs with Dubai's illuminated skyline.

Al Seef Dining Options

At Al Seef, the heritage architecture creates an enchanting setting for your final meal of the year. The waterfront restaurants offer magnificent views of Dubai Creek's waters, which serve as a canvas for the breathtaking fireworks displays. These dining establishments provide a variety of culinary experiences, from traditional Emirati cuisine to international gourmet options. Here, you can indulge in delicious meals while watching the midnight spectacle illuminate the waterways.

La Mer & Al Seef Family Activities

Both destinations excel at providing family-oriented entertainment for new year celebration in Dubai:

At La Mer:

• Hawa Hawa (inflatable playground) and outdoor trampoline park offer adrenaline-pumping fun
• Slipping and sliding activities at Laguna water park maintain the excitement throughout the day
• Carnival rides and petting zoos delight younger visitors
• Festival markets provide shopping opportunities as you await midnight

Al Seef complements these experiences with:

• Exciting cultural activities throughout the venue
• Imaginative kid-friendly workshops to engage creative minds
• Group exercise classes for the health-conscious
• Live entertainment performances that showcase local talent

This combination of dining, entertainment, and spectacular fireworks makes La Mer and Al Seef ideal choices for families seeking a balanced new year experience that caters to all ages without overwhelming crowds often found at more prominent locations.

7. Hatta

Looking for an escape from the bustling city fireworks? Just 1.5 hours from Dubai's glittering skyscrapers, Hatta offers a refreshing alternative to traditional new years eve Dubai celebrations with its serene mountain setting and star-filled skies.

Hatta Adventure Activities

The Hatta Wadi Hub serves as the adventure epicenter where thrill-seeking activities abound for celebrating the final day of the year. As opposed to conventional celebrations, here you can welcome 2026 after experiencing:

• Aerial Adventure Park featuring UAE's only 12m Giant Swing and three zipline experiences
• Tube Sliding down hillsides at speeds between 40-80 kmph
• Mountain Zorbing in giant plastic balls on dual tracks for beginners and experienced "zorbers"
• Ax throwing stations with expert handlers teaching safety and accuracy

Water enthusiasts might prefer kayaking or paddleboarding at the picturesque Hatta Dam, gliding across serene waters surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the extended 32.6-kilometer trail network with five routes of varying difficulty levels.

Hatta New Year Vibes

In contrast to the city's light shows, Hatta offers a "Countdown under the Stars" experience with special New Year's Eve camping packages. These typically include overnight stays with homemade food, barbecue, bonfires, and breakfast to welcome the first morning of 2026. Concurrently, fun games and activities keep the festive spirit alive throughout the night.

The clear mountain skies, far from city light pollution, provide exceptional stargazing opportunities as you count down to midnight. Initially quiet and reflective, the atmosphere transforms as midnight approaches, creating an intimate celebration among nature.

Hatta Overnight Stay Options

Beyond basic camping, Hatta offers diverse accommodation options:

The Damani Lodges provide breathtaking mountain views with Standard, Deluxe, and Premium options. Eventually, you might prefer the Hatta Resorts Caravans designed for families and couples, or the unique glamping Domes featuring private pools. The JA Hatta Fort Hotel provides a more traditional resort experience with restaurants, pet-friendly policies, and amenities including archery, hiking, and mini golf.

Book early as these special new year packages sell quickly, with most becoming non-refundable after December 26th.

8. Skydive at Palm Jumeirah

For adrenaline seekers wanting an unparalleled aerial perspective this New Year's Eve, skydiving over Palm Jumeirah offers the most exhilarating vantage point in Dubai. This extraordinary experience combines the thrill of freefall with breathtaking views of Dubai's iconic landmarks illuminated by new year fireworks.

Skydiving Experience

The tandem skydive experience begins with a comprehensive briefing before you're securely harnessed to an experienced instructor. As the aircraft climbs to altitude, anticipation builds until the moment you leap into the void, experiencing freefall at an exhilarating 193kmph. Throughout your descent from 13,000ft, you'll witness Palm Jumeirah's magnificent palm-shaped archipelago stretching below.

Previous jumpers describe the experience as "mind-blowing" and "enthralling". One customer noted it was an "excellent, enthusiastic and funny 5 minutes in the air", while others mentioned the professional yet friendly approach of instructors.

Beyond the standard jump, Skydive Dubai offers a special New Year promotion where each tandem skydiver receives a complimentary 1-hour yacht ride around Dubai Marina. Given that both experiences provide unique perspectives of Dubai's skyline, this combination creates the ultimate new years eve Dubai package.

Palm Jumeirah Fireworks from Sky

Primarily, what makes this experience exceptional for New Year 2026 is the bird's-eye view of Palm Jumeirah's spectacular fireworks display. In fact, from this elevated position, you'll simultaneously witness multiple fireworks shows across Dubai, including displays at Ain Dubai and Burj Al Arab. Essentially, this creates a 360-degree panorama of illuminated skylines impossible to experience from any ground location.

Skydiving Pricing

The Palm Jumeirah tandem skydive experience is priced at AED 2,749, including photos and videos of your jump. For comparison, the Desert dropzone option costs AED 2,199.

Various package options include:

• Basic skydive with medical insurance: AED 2,449
• Standard package with videos and photos: AED 2,499
• Additional one-minute Instagram highlight reel: AED 150

Important requirements include weight restrictions (maximum 90kg for women and 100kg for men) and BMI limits (27.5 for women and 30.0 for men). All jumpers must bring valid government photo ID and dress comfortably in athletic clothes with laced-up shoes.

9. Palm Jumeirah

Dubai's iconic man-made island transforms into a dazzling celebration hub every New Year's Eve. The Palm Jumeirah offers breathtaking fireworks displays coupled with luxurious beachside festivities, making it a must-visit destination for your new year celebration in Dubai.

Palm Jumeirah Fireworks

The Palm Jumeirah hosts one of Dubai's major fireworks displays, illuminating the night sky as 2026 begins. This spectacular 7-minute pyrotechnic show creates a mesmerizing panorama against the backdrop of Dubai Marina skyline and downtown Dubai. Primarily viewed from famous spots like Atlantis, The Palm, these fireworks have become a signature element of Dubai's New Year's Eve celebrations. The beaches along Palm Jumeirah don a festive look as the clock approaches midnight, creating an electric atmosphere for visitors and residents alike.

Palm Jumeirah Beach Parties

FIVE Palm Jumeirah's Bohemia Beach Club stands out among the elite party venues, collaborating with London's iconic record label Defected for an electrifying celebration. The star-studded lineup features Grammy-winning legend Roger Sanchez, alongside talented artists Monki, The Kimono Bros, and Fabrice. Throughout the night, house music enthusiasts dance under the stars until the spectacular fireworks mark the arrival of 2026.

Another premium option includes BCH:CLB beach party featuring internationally acclaimed artists Ilario Alicante, Aaron Sevilla, and Alan Dixon. Pricing varies based on your desired experience – regular tables start at AED 1,000 per person, whereas premium "Firework tables" offering unobstructed views cost AED 1,400 per person.

Palm Jumeirah Free Viewing Spots

Fortunately, experiencing this magnificent display doesn't require expensive tickets. Several public areas offer free viewing opportunities for those wishing to witness the Palm Jumeirah fireworks without splurging. The Pointe and Palm West Beach provide excellent vantage points without any entrance fee. From these locations, you'll enjoy not only the Palm's own display but also distant views of other fireworks across Dubai's skyline, creating a 360-degree spectacle that epitomizes the grandeur of new years eve Dubai.