Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI:THE United Arab Emirates rang in the New Year with largescale fireworks and drone displays that drew heavy crowds to waterfronts and city centres, with Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah hosting the most prominent celebrations.
The displays were staged across multiple public venues, with families and visitors gathering hours in advance to witness the midnight spectacles. Several shows were also streamed live to international audiences. The UAE has announced that 2026 will be the official Year of the Family, with the initiative aimed at strengthening family values, social cohesion and community wellbeing across the country.
In Dubai, the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa, became the centre of celebrations at midnight. The landmark lit up with a coordinated display of fireworks, LED visuals, lasers and fountain choreography. Large crowds gathered in Downtown Dubai, while the show was streamed live to viewers around the world.
Fireworks were also held at key locations, including Atlantis The Palm, Blue waters, JBR and Global Village. In the capital Abu Dhabi, New Year celebrations were led by an extended programme at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba. Fireworks continued in multiple stages through the evening, accompanied by a large-scale drone performance. Additional displays were held along the Corniche and at Yas Bay, drawing families and visitors to waterfront venues.
Ras Al Khaimah also hosted a major coastal fireworks show stretching from Al Marjan Island to Al Hamra. The 15-minute midnight display combined fireworks with drone formations and included an attempt at the largest single firework shell. Other emirates, including Sharjah and Ajman, also joined the celebrations with their own fireworks displays, as the country ushered in 2026 with colour, music and light.
