Where to Watch the New Year Fireworks in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Dubai’s New Year’s Eve fireworks are legendary with some of the biggest and most spectacular displays in the world. From the iconic Burj Khalifa lighting up Downtown to multiple family-friendly countdowns at Global Village, there’s a spot for every vibe and budget. Below are the major events and experiences you can plan for when welcoming 2026 in Dubai.

Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai

The world’s tallest building hosts Dubai’s most famous New Year’s Eve show with synchronized fireworks, lights, lasers, and music that illuminate the skyline as the clock strikes midnight. This is a bucket-list event for visitors and locals alike. While the main broadcast attracts massive crowds, public viewing areas around Downtown Dubai are free and open on a first-come, first-served basis.

Fireworks Time: Midnight (approx. 12:00 AM).

Tips:

• Arrive early, as many spots fill by late afternoon.

• Public transport/mobility may be limited to road closures from mid-afternoon.

Global Village — Seven Fireworks & Time Zone Countdowns

Global Village offers a unique family-friendly New Year’s Eve experience with fireworks displays timed to ring in the New Year across multiple time zones, usually from early evening well past midnight. This means you can enjoy multiple countdowns and bursts of fireworks paired with live music and entertainment across pavilions celebrating cultures from around the world.

Gates Open: Kick off at 8 pm

Ticket Price: AED 25–30 per person (entry to park includes fireworks & entertainment).

Bluewaters Island & The Beach (JBR)

While not a single centralized firework show like Burj Khalifa, Bluewaters Island, and The Beach at JBR kick off New Year’s celebrations with festive light shows, DJ sets, and beachside countdowns, with fireworks and drone displays set against the Ain Dubai skyline and Arabian Gulf waters. It’s perfect for a more relaxed beachside vibe with outdoor dining and music.

Dubai Festival City Mall

Dubai Festival City Mall typically hosts a New Year’s celebration with its iconic IMAGINE light and water shows, live entertainment, and a celebratory fireworks display along the Festival Bay waterfront. While details vary year to year, it’s a popular alternative spot if Downtown crowds are too intense and offers dining, shopping, and entertainment in one place.

Event Start: 9 pm - 11:59 pm

Ticket Info: Typically ticketed for New Year’s Eve viewing (prices vary by year).

Make Your New Year's Eve Memorable in Dubai

Dubai has multiple layers of New Year’s Eve fireworks experiences, from the world-renowned Burj Khalifa midnight show to multi-countdown family festivals and waterfront celebrations. Whether you’re after free public views, ticketed prime seating, or fun attractions for kids, planning with tickets, arrival times, and transport will make your New Year’s Eve unforgettable.

And in case you need your goods delivered anywhere across the UAE during peak traffic hours, Lalamove is here to help you! Simply download the Lalamove app and enjoy the festive season with one less thing to worry about.

Happy New Year to all!