New Year’s Eve in Dubai never fails to amaze, and 2025–26 is set to be one of the city’s most spectacular celebrations yet. From world-famous fireworks at the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab to glamorous gala dinners, beach parties, and family-friendly festivities, Dubai turns the last night of the year into a citywide celebration.
Whether you’re looking for luxury dining, iconic NYE fireworks, live concerts, or a lively countdown by the water, NYE in Dubai offers something for every style of celebration. It’s no surprise that thousands travel here each year just to experience the magic.
If you’re planning to spend New Year’s Eve in Dubai, we’ve gathered the top places and experiences to help you welcome 2026 in the most unforgettable way.
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Things To Know Before Celebrating NYE In Dubai
If you are planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Dubai, here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Hotels and tickets book out like hotcakes: Because Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations during NYE, hotels in central locations and tickets to trending New Year’s Eve events get booked way in advance. If you want to make the most out of your new year’s experience in Dubai, make sure you book your tickets as early as possible.
- Reach your new year’s eve celebration destination early: The roads get really busy on New Year’s Eve, especially in central locations like Downtown. If you want to ensure that you reach any location on time, you have to leave early, ideally keeping a margin of 2-3 hours. To reach extremely busy destinations like The Dubai Mall, you may even have to reach during the day to secure a good spot to watch the fireworks.
- Use public transport: Finding a parking spot during New Year’s Eve in Dubai can be difficult, which is why using public transport like taxis or the metro can be an easier commute. The metro line runs till late at night during NYE, making it convenient for people to travel back to their homes post celebrations. However, keep in mind that metro stations also tend to get very busy on the day.
- Check age restrictions of events: Dubai has a wide range of festivities to celebrate New Year’s Eve. However, not all are suitable for kids and families. Some events may have an age restriction of 21+, so make sure you check before you book your tickets to avoid any disappointment.
The Top Places To Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025-26 In Dubai
New Year’s Eve at DREAM Dinner Show
Step into a world of dazzling performances, luxury dining, and pure celebration as DREAM transforms New Year’s Eve into an unforgettable spectacle. This one-night-only edition features a bespoke show created exclusively for the grand countdown, complete with international acts, festive highlights, and the signature DREAM energy that never fades.
Guests will enjoy a lavish 10-course sharing menu, free-flowing beverages, and nonstop entertainment that fills the main floor with music, lights, and electric atmosphere. Expect breathtaking acts, glamorous moments, and a midnight countdown crafted to make your first moments of the new year feel extraordinary. Dress to impress, dance through the night, and welcome 2026 in true DREAM style.
NYE Gala Dinner with Maroon 5 & The Palm Jumeirah Fireworks
Ring in the new year with the breathtaking Palm Jumeirah fireworks, one of Dubai’s largest and most impressive NYE displays. As the sky lights up over the Arabian Gulf, the entire island becomes a glowing backdrop, a spectacular way to welcome 2026.
For one of the best vantage points on the island, you can attend the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner Under the Stars Featuring Maroon 5. With a world-class live performance, a beautifully curated dinner, and a panoramic view of the Palm fireworks, this celebration elevates the night into something truly unforgettable. It’s the perfect blend of music, atmosphere, and iconic Dubai views, all under the open sky.
Watch The Burj Khalifa Fireworks
The Burj Khalifa fireworks display is one of the world’s most sought-after New Year’s Eve celebrations. People travel all the way to Dubai to experience this grand show for a good reason.
Watching the laser light show countdown to the most bedazzling firework display is one of the best ways to ring in the new year and is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The iconic Burj Khalifa New Year’s Eve fireworks display can be viewed from various locations.
Free places to watch the Burj Khalifa New Year’s Eve Fireworks
There are multiple locations where crowds gather to watch this New Year’s Eve spectacle for free, including The Dubai Mall, Souk Al Bahar, Burj Park, and Dubai Canal. These locations get jam-packed very quickly, so if you are planning to view the fireworks from any of them, make sure you reach them as soon as possible.
Restaurants and Hotels to watch Burj Khalifa New Year’s Eve Fireworks
Many fine-dining restaurants and hotels in Dubai with a Burj Khalifa view host exclusive New Year’s Eve parties where people can celebrate the festivities in style. You can also book a table at one of the many fountain-view restaurants at The Dubai Mall, including KFC and Tim Hortons, to enjoy the fireworks view up close.
The downtown Dubai area gets very crowded on New Year’s Eve, so ensure you reach your destination at least a few hours before the fireworks display. The Dubai Mall also sets up a roadblock after 10 p.m. for crowd control. If you aren’t there before that, you will not be able to get inside.
Check out our full guide to all the top locations to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks across the UAE: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and RAK.
Experience The Fireworks At Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab fireworks are one of Dubai’s most iconic New Year’s Eve moments. As the clock strikes midnight, the sky above the world-famous hotel bursts into colour, creating a spectacular display that feels truly unforgettable.
Like the Burj Khalifa show, the Burj Al Arab fireworks can be viewed from several locations across the area. Popular free spots include Kite Beach and Madinat Jumeirah, though both get extremely crowded, so arriving early is essential.
If you prefer a smoother, more comfortable experience, you can watch the fireworks from Janat Al Bahar at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, home of the Where Moments Shine – New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. With beachfront views, elegant dining, and a direct line of sight to the Burj Al Arab, it’s one of the most enjoyable places to take in the show without the chaos of public viewing areas.
CamelPhat & Mahmut Orhan Concert
Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour is set to deliver one of the most exciting New Year’s Eve celebrations in the city with a powerful lineup featuring CamelPhat and Mahmut Orhan. This waterfront event blends world-class electronic music with immersive visuals, creating a vibrant atmosphere against Dubai’s iconic skyline.
If you’re looking to welcome 2026 with electrifying music and a truly dynamic setting, Ushuaïa Dubai Harbour is the place to be. Expect a night that feels immersive, lively, and absolutely unmissable.
New Year’s Eve With John Legend in Abu Dhabi
Not in Dubai, but we had to mention the NYE concert with John Legend at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, it’s truly unmissable. This open-air New Year’s Eve experience lets you welcome 2026 with John Legend’s smooth, soulful voice under the night sky. Expect a beautiful blend of timeless hits, heartfelt ballads, and his signature elegant stage presence. With its luxurious setting and warm, romantic ambiance, it’s the perfect choice for anyone looking for a classy, unforgettable start to the new year.
Shiraz House NYE 2026
Celebrate New Year’s Eve high above the city at Shiraz House, where open-air views, music, and a stylish crowd come together for a full-scale NYE experience. The night is driven by a strong DJ lineup featuring Phelix, Tebra, Pouya, Sasha, and AJ, delivering non-stop energy as the celebration builds toward midnight, with live performance from Lilyam and Omid. With panoramic skyline views, flowing beats, and a buzzing crowd counting down together, Shiraz House sets the scene for a vibrant and unforgettable welcome to 2026.
New Year’s Eve Family Carnival 2026
This all-ages family carnival by the beach is designed for everyone to enjoy New Year’s Eve together. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with beachfront celebrations and clear views of the NYE fireworks lighting up the sky. Guests can enjoy a variety of food and beverage options, dedicated 21+ zones for adults, and a full lineup of entertainment for kids, including a play area and fun meet-and-greet moments like Labubu. It’s an easygoing, cheerful way for families to welcome 2026 by the sea.
Barasti NYE Celebration
Barasti turns up the heat this New Year’s Eve with an explosive beach celebration headlined by Will Sparks and Tungevaag. Expect massive drops, high-energy electronic sets, and a crowd that’s ready to dance straight into 2026. With the Dubai Marina skyline glowing behind you and Barasti’s iconic beach vibe setting the tone, this night promises non-stop energy, big beats, and unforgettable moments on the sand.
For those seeking a more relaxed and family-friendly option, Barasti also hosts Bubbles & Beats – NYE Dinner at the Middle Deck. Enjoy a festive dinner, upbeat music, and a warm, welcoming setting, all with a fantastic view of the New Year’s Eve fireworks as they light up the Dubai Marina.
Whether you’re on the sand with the headliners or enjoying dinner on the Middle Deck, Barasti is one of Dubai’s most exciting places to welcome the new year.
New Year’s Eve Celebration at Expo City Dubai
Expo City Dubai sets the stage for a vibrant New Year’s Eve celebration filled with live entertainment, roaming performers, and a festive atmosphere that brings the entire space to life. With family-friendly activities, global cuisines, and music filling the plazas, this ticketed event promises a joyful night for visitors of all ages.
As midnight approaches, guests gather under the iconic Al Wasl Dome for a dazzling countdown moment as the sky glows with a stunning fireworks display and immersive light shows. It’s a celebration filled with energy, colour, and excitement, perfect for families and groups looking to welcome 2026 in a lively, memorable setting.
New Year’s Eve with Wael Kfoury & Najwa Karam in Dubai Festival City
Dubai Festival City is setting the stage for a spectacular New Year’s Eve as Wael Kfoury and Najwa Karam come together for a powerful night of music and celebration. With Najwa’s vibrant Lebanese flair and Wael’s soulful, romantic vocals, this concert promises a blend of energy, emotion, and star power that feels perfect for ringing in 2026.
Get ready for a night of beautiful voices, dazzling fireworks, and a countdown moment you’ll remember long after the music fades.
New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner by the Beach
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at WET Deck with a beachfront gala that blends great food, flowing drinks, and a lively party atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a generous buffet filled with international and festive favorites, along with free-flow beverages throughout the evening. Live entertainment keeps the energy high as midnight approaches, with stunning firework views setting the scene for a stylish and memorable welcome to 2026 by the sea.
New Year’s Eve at Marsa Boulevard
Marsa Boulevard hosts a vibrant waterfront New Year’s Eve filled with movement, music, and social energy. With multiple dining spots, open-air spaces, and a buzzing promenade atmosphere, it’s an easygoing yet festive way to enjoy the night and welcome the New Year by the water.
Tomorrowland Presents Miss Monique & Rivo
Terra Solis brings a desert twist to New Year’s Eve as Tomorrowland takes over with Miss Monique and Rivo behind the decks. Miss Monique’s melodic layers and smooth progressive sound set a beautiful rhythm for the night, while Rivo adds his dynamic style that keeps the crowd moving.
The setting is relaxed, open-air, and full of atmosphere, music flowing through the dunes, glowing lights, and a countdown moment that feels completely different from the city’s usual celebrations. It’s a great pick if you want a night that’s vibrant without being overwhelming, with a unique blend of festival energy and desert calm.
Ring of Fire NYE
Designed on a grand scale, Ring of Fire NYE transforms Dubai International Stadium into a high-energy celebration zone. Live performances, DJ sets, striking production elements, and a powerful midnight moment come together to create a bold, unforgettable start to the New Year.
New Year’s Eve with Gianluca Vacchi
Celebrate NYE in true beach-club style at Nikki Beach Dubai, with Gianluca Vacchi leading the party. Expect high-energy music, an international crowd, and nonstop dancing in a glamorous beachfront setting as the countdown unfolds under the stars.
Five Luxe | New Year’s Eve with Roger Sanchez & Gipsy Kings’ Chico Castillo
Five Luxe delivers a dynamic New Year’s Eve experience featuring Roger Sanchez on the decks and a live performance by Chico Castillo of Gipsy Kings. The night blends electronic beats with live music moments, all within a luxury party atmosphere that builds toward a high-impact countdown.
A Taste of Glamour: New Year’s Eve Soirée
This NYE soirée at The Stage Restaurant focuses on elegance, atmosphere, and celebration. Guests can enjoy a refined dining experience paired with music and a stylish crowd, making it a polished option for welcoming 2026 with flair.
Golden Night Gala Dinner at Zabeel Theater
Step into a refined celebration at Zabeel Theater, where the Golden Night Gala Dinner creates a warm and elegant way to welcome 2026. The evening features a beautifully curated menu, live entertainment, and a setting that feels both intimate and festive. Soft lighting, stylish décor, and a relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy New Year’s Eve without the crowds and chaos.
Autodrome Festival Musical Concert
The Autodrome Festival Musical Concert brings a powerful lineup to Dubai this New Year’s Eve, featuring three beloved stars: George Wassouf, Assi El Hallani, and Mohamed Fadel Chaker. Each artist brings their own style, from Wassouf’s deep, emotional vocals to Assi’s lively energy and Mohamed’s soulful melodies, creating a night filled with iconic songs and unforgettable moments.
With open-air festival vibes, a lively crowd, and a stage set for big performances, this concert offers a vibrant way to celebrate the final night of the year. It’s the perfect spot for fans of Arabic music looking to welcome 2026 with legendary voices and a festive atmosphere.
Groove New Year’s Eve Party
If you’re after a smooth, music-driven celebration, Pacific Groove Restaurant sets the tone with DJ grooves, good food, and an easygoing crowd. The night flows comfortably toward midnight, offering a relaxed yet festive way to ring in the New Year.
New Year 2026 Featuring “TIMATI Flava”
Head up high for a rooftop New Year’s Eve at AYA Rooftop, Mileo The Palm, featuring the TIMATI Flava showcase and DJ set. With bold beats, skyline views, and late-night energy, this celebration turns the countdown into a full-on party above the city.
Midnight in Monte Carlo
Midnight in Monte Carlo brings a touch of classic European glamour to New Year’s Eve. With an elegant setting, refined atmosphere, and celebratory energy, it’s a stylish way to welcome 2026 in surroundings inspired by timeless luxury.
Begin The Year The Bedouin Way At Desert Safari
Head deep into the desert to bring in the new year in the traditional way of the Arabs with an exclusive NYE desert safari tour. The experience takes you on a wild ride across the sand dunes in a 4×4 SUV with a trained driver to a traditional Bedouin camp where you can join fellow riders and celebrate the new year with activities like camel rides, henna tattoos, belly dancing, and traditional tanoura dances.
Desert Safari is one of the best ways to ring in the new year, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and under the stars. The day ends with a grand Arabian feast with delicacies like mandi, grilled meat, and hummus, after which you head back into the city with another thrilling and exciting ride through the desert.
If you are looking for a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in Dubai, Desert Safari is a great option that’s suitable and enjoyable for both kids and adults.
Ring In the New Year At Global Village
Dubai’s iconic open-air fair, Global Village, is one of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve. With its 30+ pavilions inspired by different countries, Global Village allows you to experience New Year traditions from around the world as each country’s pavilion celebrates the event in its special way.
Visitors can also experience seven firework shows at Global Village on New Year’s Eve, each one marking midnight in a different timezone, from China, to India, Pakistan, and Turkey.
While the grown-ups celebrate New Year, kids will also have a grand time at Global Village’s carnival rides and arcade area suitable for children of all ages. It’s the perfect place to ring in the new year with your family.
Attend a New Year’s Eve Dinner
Looking to welcome the new year in a luxurious way? Book a table at one of Dubai’s many high-end, fine-dining restaurants for the occasion. Most restaurants in the city hold exclusive New Year’s Eve gala dinners with specially curated menus.
With a wide range of restaurants available for dining, you can find something suitable for everyone. Whether you are looking for a family-friendly restaurant or one you can enjoy with friends, there are many options to choose from for your New Year’s Eve celebration in Dubai.
You can also experience one of the many New Year’s Eve firework displays from restaurants in Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, and Madinat Jumeirah while enjoying a delicious meal with your loved ones.
Pro tip – Restaurants with a view get booked out very fast; make sure you reserve your table in advance.
More in Abu Dhabi?
There are plenty more ways to celebrate, explore all New Year’s Eve experiences and events on Platinumlist to plan your perfect NYE in Dubai.
