As the year draws to a close, Abu Dhabi is gearing up for a spectacular celebration to welcome 2024. From masquerade balls to beachside galas, the capital will be jam-packed with exciting events for ringing in the New Year.
Here’s a list of the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi to help you plan your day.
Best Places to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi
Andrea Bocelli Live at Emirates Palace
The elegant Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental will host Andrea Bocelli on New Year’s Eve, offering guests a unique opportunity to enjoy his timeless melodies in an open-air concert overlooking the Arabian Gulf. The evening includes gourmet tasting stations and premium beverages, with a grand midnight fireworks display illuminating the sky. Following the fireworks, an after-party with renowned DJs and international performers will keep the celebration going.
Fireworks Tip: The Emirates Palace terrace offers an excellent view of the fireworks display, making it a perfect combination of live music and pyrotechnic wonder.
Liwa Village 2025: Culture and Adventure in Al Dhafra
Located in the heart of the desert, Liwa Village offers 23 days of cultural and adventurous activities for families and thrill-seekers. You can explore Emirati traditions, go dune bashing, and experience live music in the scenic desert setting. On New Year’s Eve, Liwa Village will host a special concert by Abadi Al Johar and Rahma Riad in the Tarab Liwa zone, an enchanting evening of music against a desert backdrop.
Fireworks Tip: The best fireworks views in Liwa are from Tal Moreeb and around the main built-up areas of Liwa Village and the Liwa Festival. The towering Tal Moreeb dune provides an impressive vantage point to take in the festive fireworks lighting up the vast desert sky.
Top NYE Fireworks Viewing Spots in Abu Dhabi
Wherever you are in Abu Dhabi, you’ll find dazzling fireworks displays to celebrate the New Year. Here are the best locations for breathtaking views:
- Abu Dhabi Corniche: This stunning eight-kilometer stretch of waterfront offers spectacular views of the fireworks. Head to The MOTN Festival, Manar at Lulu Island, or Corniche Beach for a front-row seat. For a more adventurous view, rent a jet ski and watch the fireworks from the water.
- Yas Island: Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Marina, and Yas Beach are excellent spots to catch the fireworks on Yas Island. The lively atmosphere of rooftop lounges and entertainment venues on the waterfront make it a festive and energetic place to celebrate.
- Tal Moreeb: Known as “Scary Mountain,” Tal Moreeb is a favorite destination for motorsports enthusiasts and dune bashers. The fireworks can be seen across the main areas of Liwa Village and around the Tal Moreeb dune, offering a unique New Year’s celebration in the desert.
- Al Hudayriyat Island: This active island is great for cycling, surfing, and glamping. Spend the day exploring Al Hudayriyat’s amenities, then settle down at Bab Al Nojoum or have a beachfront picnic for an incredible view of the island’s fireworks display.
- Sheikh Zayed Festival (Al Wathba): The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba features New Year’s events and traditional performances. Watch the fireworks from the Heritage Village, Majlis area, or the Camping Village, where you can enjoy the cultural festivities along with the pyrotechnic show.
- Al Maryah Island: For a sophisticated New Year’s Eve, visit Al Maryah Island, where you can celebrate in style at one of the five-star hotels, such as the Rosewood or Four Seasons. The area offers luxury dining and nightlife options, with fantastic views of the fireworks.
- Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain: In Al Ain, this iconic stadium is a popular spot for New Year’s Eve fireworks. With plenty of parking and easy access, it’s a convenient location for families and friends to gather and enjoy the colorful show.
- Madinat Zayed Public Park: In Al Dhafra, Madinat Zayed Public Park is a favorite community park for its lively atmosphere. Bring a picnic blanket and camping chairs, and relax in the park as you wait for the midnight display to light up the night.
- Mugheirah Bay Waterfront, Al Mirfa: This beautiful bay offers a mix of retail and leisure activities on the Al Dhafra coastline. Book a stay at a nearby resort for a comfortable night, or explore the mangroves before watching the coastal fireworks.
- Ghiyathi: For a quieter celebration, head to the town of Ghiyathi in the Al Dhafra region. The Tamm Centre area provides a cozy and quaint spot for watching the New Year’s fireworks, making it a perfect location for those looking for a low-key celebration.
New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner at Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi
Celebrate an elegant evening at the Imperial Ballroom with welcome drinks, gourmet appetizers, and a lavish buffet. Entertainment includes live performances by the Freedom Jazz Band and a captivating belly dance show, along with a thrilling New Year’s raffle. Don’t miss the after-party at Jawahir Garden.
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Watch Spectacular Fireworks at Sheikh Zayed Festival
A favorite Abu Dhabi tradition, the Sheikh Zayed Festival’s fireworks display promises a stunning 46-minute show to start 2024 with unforgettable memories. Following the fireworks, a record-breaking drone show will light up the sky. Over 27 countries are participating in this year’s event, bringing 6,000 cultural events and performances.
Emerald Night Gala at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
Dress to impress for an extravagant New Year’s Eve soiree at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, where the venue will be transformed into a sparkling emerald wonderland. Enjoy live performances, DJ sets, and a grand buffet. Don’t miss the midnight toast to start the new year in style.
Stay tuned for more exciting New Year’s Eve celebrations in Dubai!
