Exciting Things To Do in Dubai New Year 2026

The holiday season is upon us and it’s time to plan your New Year’s celebrations. As one of the most vibrant cities in the world, Dubai pulls out all the stops to ring in the new year spectacularly. From grand firework displays to lively beach parties and world-class attractions, you will surely find the perfect way to welcome 2026. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the most exciting things to do in Dubai New Year 2026.​

Witness the Iconic Burj Khalifa Fireworks Show

One of the most anticipated Dubai New Year’s events is the spectacular fireworks extravaganza at the Burj Khalifa. Towering over Downtown Dubai at 828 meters, the tallest building in the world lights up the night sky with a 9-minute light and laser show titled Beyond Dreams, combining over 15,600 pyrotechnic elements and more than 200 cutting-edge laser beams. Starting at 12 PM on December 31, Burj Park will be transformed into the heart of the celebration with synchronized Dubai Fountain performances. For the best views, secure your ticketed spot at Burj Park or head to free viewing areas at Dubai Mall and Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard.​

• Price: Adults: AED 997 | Children (5-12 years): AED 577 | Free for kids under
• Timing: Event starts 12:00 PM, Fireworks at midnight​
• Note: Tickets available via Platinumlist; collect badges between December 26-30 for entry​

Spend the Evening on a Luxurious Yacht

Ring in 2026 aboard a lavishly appointed yacht cruising along Dubai’s coastline. Companies offer private charter packages where you can enjoy gourmet international buffet dinners featuring vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, unlimited soft drinks, live entertainment including traditional Tanura dance performances and vibrant DJ sets. As midnight approaches, witness the spectacular Burj Khalifa fireworks illuminate the night sky from the water with access to upper and lower decks providing panoramic views of Dubai’s landmarks.​

• Price: AED 699 to AED 1,999 depending on package​
• Timing: Evening cruise with midnight countdown

Party at Atlantis, The Palm

For picture-perfect views of the New Year fireworks in Dubai, head to the iconic palm-shaped resort of Atlantis, The Palm. It is also the best place to stay during the New Year. This year features a special performance by music legend Sting on December 31st at Atlantis’ extravagant NYE celebration. Enjoy the elaborate pyrotechnic show reflected across the lagoon waters or book one of their epic gala dinners with live entertainment. If daylight activities appeal to you, check out their fantastic Aquaventure waterpark for guaranteed family fun.​

• Price: Adults (14+ years): AED 8,500 | Children (4-13 years): AED 5,500 | Complimentary for ages 0-3 ​
• Timing: 24 hours

Immerse in Desert Magic Under the Stars

Step into a world of mystique by joining an exclusive overnight desert safari on New Year’s Eve Dubai. Wake up to an unforgettable sunset over the dunes before enjoying authentic barbecues, folk singing, and belly dancing shows. The luxurious Sonara Camp in the dunes offers a mouth-watering buffet dinner, live band, roaring fire pits, and international DJs entertaining you through the night under a canopy of stars. At the stroke of midnight, experience the magic of fireworks illuminating the desert sky for an intimate and unique Dubai NYE Party.​

• Price: AED 500 to AED 899 depending on package​
• Timing: Evening through midnight

Desert Safari Options

Party the Night Away at Zero Gravity

For an exhilarating beachside bash, make your way to Zero Gravity Dubai. Groove to top DJ acts, savour fantastic buffets, and admire the magnificent fireworks displays reflected across the Arabian Gulf. Beat the heat by taking a dip between activities. With pool access and pristine locations, it’s easily one of the city’s best New Year parties.​

• Price: AED 699 to AED 925​
• Timing: 11:00 AM – 3:00 AM

Sail Along Dubai Water Canal

For panoramic perspectives, hop on dinner cruises organized along the Dubai Water Canal route. Cruises like the New Year’s Luxury Dubai Canal Cruise host multi-course meals aboard traditional wooden dhows with entertainment. Admire Dubai illuminating district by district in all its grandeur like never before.​

• Price: AED 700 to AED 749​
• Timing: Evening departures available

Helicopter Ride Thrills

This New Year, treat yourself to a helicopter tour of Dubai for unmatched views. Departing from scenic Palm Jumeirah Island, rise above the glittering skyline for incredible aerial photos of iconic buildings like Burj Khalifa. Your private charter includes a guide sharing fascinating facts during the tour. Before takeoff, arrive early to savour the pre-lounge ambience overlooking the city.

• Price: AED 990 to AED 1,490​
• Timing: Various departure times available

Escape to Nature at Hatta

If the hustle and bustle isn’t your thing, drive to Hatta, one of the icons of Dubai 2040 Master Plan for refreshingly scenic vibes this New Year. Experience the thrills of mountain biking, hiking, or zip-lining before winding down with a barbecue meal under the stars. Catch glimpses of fireworks displays in the distance for a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

• Price: AED 599 to AED 799​
• Timing: Full day excursions available

Celebrate at AURA SKYPOOL

AURA SKYPOOL offers Dubai’s most iconic New Year party destination with 360° skyline views from the world’s highest infinity pool. Dance your way into the new year to vibrant beats from resident DJs and be captivated by sensational live performances, including saxophonists, violinists, percussionists, singers, and dancers. Indulge in an exquisite selection of AURA’s signature dishes and savor free-flowing Perrier Jouet Brut NV Champagne and other premium beverages. Upgrade your experience to free-flowing Perrier Jouet Blanson Rose NV for an additional AED 1,000 per person.​

• Price: Contact venue for pricing
• Timing: Evening till late​

Dhow Cruise on New Year 2026

Consider a more serene New Year’s Eve on the water if large crowds and lavish affairs aren’t your scene. Board a traditional dhow boat for an intimate cruise along Dubai Creek or Marina. These vessels offer live entertainment including Tanura dance shows, delicious meals from expert chefs, unlimited soft drinks, and prime views of New Year’s fireworks in Dubai. You can sail in tranquility while enjoying the sounds of celebration across Dubai’s coastline.​

• Price: AED 700 to AED 1,400​
• Timings: 10:30 PM to 01:30 AM

Experience Royalty at Dubai Opera

Say goodbye to 2025 with an unforgettable evening at the Dubai Opera. Talented musicians and artists will take to the stage, followed by popular DJ sets at this iconic Downtown Dubai venue. Expect entertainment all night alongside delectable cuisine with an indulgent set menu and open bar. Just before midnight, everyone will head outside to the promenade for prime views of the legendary Burj Khalifa fireworks display.

• Price: AED 749 to AED 990​
• Timing: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Head Over to La Mer or Al Seef

Seeking an offbeat New Year’s Eve experience in Dubai? Consider Al Seef or La Mer waterfront markets, where lively festivities await. Wander amid live music and carnival rides that are perfect for kids. You’ll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Dubai New Year 2026. Soak in the atmosphere before midnight strikes and a dazzling fireworks display lights the sky.​

• Price: Free entry
• Timing: Open throughout the day and evening

Plan a Beach Picnic

Are crowded festivities, late nights out, and lavish meals not how you envision ringing in the new year? Dubai offers relaxing alternatives as well. Consider planning a laid-back beach picnic for a different kind of New Year 2026 celebration. The city’s stunning sandy shores provide the perfect backdrop. Simply choose a public beach to set up your spread and enjoy quality time under the stars as 2025 comes to a close.

• Price: Free
• Timing: All beaches open

Groove Along the Mesmerizing Palm Jumeirah

With its iconic silhouette, the Palm Jumeirah makes for one of Dubai’s most scenic New Year’s Eve spots. Watch in awe as the island illuminates with magnificent fireworks while swaying to upbeat music. Indulge in lavish meals at palatial hotels or grab a picnic and celebrate among the lively crowds along its picturesque crescent. Multiple venues offer special packages with views of the Palm fireworks.​

• Price: Varies by venue (packages from AED 499)​
• Timing: Evening celebrations throughout Palm Jumeirah

Spend New Year 2026 at Global Village

Global Village is the place to be if you want fireworks, festivities, and family fun all under one roof. This open-air culture and entertainment park stays open until 1 AM on New Year’s Eve, hosting live performances and activities throughout the night. At midnight, a dazzling fireworks show lights up the sky. You can also shop for souvenirs at the world pavilions, taste international cuisines, and enjoy carnival rides.

• Price: Entry tickets available (check official website)
• Timing: Until 1:00 AM on NYE

Gala Dinner at 2 Seasons Hotel

For a festive celebration with spectacular fireworks views, book your New Year’s Eve table at 2 Seasons Hotel. Multiple dining options are available from 8:30 PM to 1:30 AM with live music:​

La Terrasse Restaurant:

• Package 1: AED 499 per person - Dinner buffet, water, soft drinks, and non-alcoholic sparkling wine​
• Package 2: AED 599 per person - Dinner buffet PLUS walk-in access to Sky Lounge (40th floor) with stunning Palm Fireworks views and selected drinks​

Pool Bar: AED 499 per person - Dinner buffet, water, soft drinks, chilled juices, and festive Christmas mocktails​

House of Noodles: A La Carte Menu with minimum spend of AED 250 per person, plus optional Sky Lounge access for AED 150 per person​

Price: AED 250 to AED 599 per person​
Timing: 8:30 PM - 1:30 AM​

The First Group Festive Celebrations

The First Group hotels offer special New Year packages with up to 35% savings when booking direct. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Dubai with a Gala Dinner at Soluna Restaurants and Beach Club on The Palm Jumeirah, featuring live music, festive dining, and handcrafted drinks before counting down to midnight. As the New Year begins, the night continues with an exclusive beachside afterparty and spectacular views of the Palm Jumeirah fireworks.​

Gala Dinner Pricing:

• Non-alcoholic beverages: AED 409 (Early bird) / AED 645 (Full price)​
• Sparkling beverages: AED 484 (Early bird) / AED 645 (Full price)​

Early Bird Offer: Book before December 8, 2025, and get 25% discount (50% deposit required)​

Price: Starting from AED 409 per person​
Timing: Evening gala with afterparty​

Indulge at Premium Venues

Multiple premium venues across Dubai offer exclusive New Year’s Eve experiences. From rooftop lounges to beachfront restaurants, expect live DJ performances, gourmet multi-course meals, premium beverage packages, and front-row seats to the city’s fireworks displays. Many venues require advance booking due to high demand.​

• Price: AED 1,490 to AED 2,975 for premium experiences​
• Timing: Evening till late

Explore Waterfront Markets

Those looking to ring in the new year differently have enjoyable options away from the glitz. Consider visiting the city’s picturesque waterfront markets for a varied showcase of Dubai. Shop to your heart’s content between tasty eats and carnival rides for a low-key way to welcome 2026. Downtown Dubai hotspots will offer free access with live bands, DJs, urban dancers, and interactive performances throughout the day.​

• Price: Free
• Timing: All-time open

Dubai New Year 2026 Parties and Events

Bollywood Shows at Downtown Dubai

A new element this year is a series of Bollywood shows and performances produced by Frontstage, owned by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment. These shows will be part of the week-long celebration in Downtown Dubai starting December 31, adding unprecedented scale to the festivities.​

EMAAR New Year’s Eve at Burj Park

The official EMAAR NYE 2026 event at Burj Park offers an exclusive location to enjoy the celebrations without worrying about crowds. With over 10 food and beverage stalls, pyrotechnics, live performances, aerial displays, and visual effects, this ticketed event provides premium access to Dubai’s grandest New Year celebration.​

Price: Adults: AED 997 | Children (5-12): AED 577 | Free for under 5 ​

Atlantis The Palm with Sting

Music legend Sting will perform live at Atlantis’ extravagant NYE celebration on December 31st. This elite address promises a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the coastline alongside world-class entertainment.​

Price: Adults: AED 8,500 | Children (4-13): AED 5,500 ​

AURA SKYPOOL 360° Celebration

Dubai’s highest infinity pool transforms into the ultimate New Year party venue. Dance to resident DJs while enjoying sensational live performances from saxophonists, violinists, percussionists, singers, and dancers. Free-flowing Perrier Jouet Champagne and signature dishes complete this sky-high celebration.​

Luxury Yacht Party Cruise

Sail into 2026 on an exclusive yacht cruise along Dubai’s coast. Snack on hors d’oeuvres from live cooking stations and sip premium drinks while admiring the city skyline illuminated with fireworks. International DJs and traditional Tanura dance performances add cultural flair to this floating celebration.​

Price: AED 699 to AED 1,999​

Travel Tips for New Year’s in Dubai

• Book early: Tickets for popular venues like Burj Park are selling fast; secure your spot via Platinumlist​
• Collect badges: If attending Burj Park, collect your entry badges between December 26-30​
• Free viewing options: Dubai Mall and Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard offer free access with stunning views​
• Arrive early: For ticketed events starting at 12 PM, arrive early for first-come, first-served seating​
• Live broadcast: Can’t attend in person? Tune in to the live broadcast starting at 5 PM GST via Emaar’s official channels​
• Consider public transport: Taxis are busier during this time; use Dubai Metro for easier access to Downtown Dubai
• Stay hydrated: Even in December, Dubai’s climate can be warm; carry water
• Dress code: Many premium venues require smart casual or formal attire
• Payment: 50% deposit required for most early bird bookings​
• Family-friendly options: Over 10 F&B stalls, live bands, DJs, and interactive performances keep families entertained throughout the day​

With glamor and good cheer around every corner, Dubai goes all out to ensure visitors have an unforgettable New Year’s celebration. From the 9-minute Beyond Dreams light show featuring over 15,600 pyrotechnic elements at Burj Khalifa to lively beach parties, Bollywood performances, and cultural celebrations, this cosmopolitan city promises an exciting way to ring in 2026. Take your pick from these top events and activities – Dubai will see you into 2026 in stellar style