YOUSUF SAIFUDDIN (ABU DHABI)

Planning a New Year's getaway does not have to be complicated. In Abu Dhabi, every detail is designed to help visitors celebrate, and welcome the year ahead in style.

From world-class live music and luxury dining to desert celebrations and city-wide fireworks, the UAE capital offers something for every kind of traveller.

Whether you are seeking glamour, culture, family-friendly fun, or beachfront festivities, Abu Dhabi promises a New Year's Eve filled with memorable moments.

Live Music Highlights: Global and Regional Stars

Alicia Keys 

Music lovers can welcome 2026 with a special performance by multi-Grammy-winning artist Alicia Keys, live on December 31 at Saadiyat Island.

As part of the third edition of Saadiyat Nights, the open-air concert brings soulful vocals and timeless hits to one of Abu Dhabi's most scenic venues.

Set against stunning coastal views, the evening will feature beloved songs such as Fallin' and No One.

John Legend

For an elegant New Year's Eve, John Legend takes the stage at Terrace, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, on December 31. Guests can enjoy an evening that blends live music, gourmet dining, and celebration at one of Abu Dhabi's most iconic landmarks.

The night includes a lavish dinner, a spectacular midnight fireworks display over the Abu Dhabi skyline, and an exclusive after-party under the stars featuring international DJs - a celebration where luxury and festivity come together to welcome 2026 in style.

Arab Music Stars on Yas Island

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Fans of Arabic music can celebrate the new year with Nassif Zeytoun and Haifa Wehbe, two of the Arab world's biggest stars, performing live at Space42 Arena, Yas Island. The concert promises a high-energy night, setting the tone for a vibrant start to 2026.

MOTN Festival

Adding to the region's musical offerings, Egyptian singer and composer Ramy Sabry will also perform live at Abu Dhabi’s MOTN Festival on New Year’s Eve. 

Fireworks Across the Emirate

Abu Dhabi celebrations: As midnight approaches, Abu Dhabi's skyline will come alive with spectacular fireworks displays across multiple locations, bringing communities together in a shared moment of celebration.

Key fireworks locations include:
- Abu Dhabi Corniche - 10 minutes
- Erth Abu Dhabi - 5 minutes
- Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri - 3 minutes
- Fairmont Bab Al Bahr - 4 minutes

Additional displays will illuminate Saadiyat Island, including Saadiyat Nights, the Water Canal opposite the Cultural District, Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, and Saadiyat Beach Club.

WATCH: Record-breaking 62- minute fireworks 

Yas Bay Waterfront

At Yas Bay Waterfront, visitors can enjoy two fireworks shows, one at 9:00 pm and another at midnight, offering flexible viewing times for families and early arrivals. 

The waterfront setting, festive atmosphere, and vibrant pyrotechnics make Yas Bay a popular destination for ringing in the new year.

Al Ain and Hudayriyat Island

In Al Ain, fireworks will light up the sky above Hazza Stadium at Al Ain Square, creating a joyful community celebration perfect for families and friends.

Meanwhile, Hudayriyat Island will host a five-minute fireworks display over the waterfront, offering scenic views and a relaxed setting to welcome 2026.

Desert Experiences

Sheikh Zayed Festival

Al Wathba is preparing to host one of the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations in the UAE and the region, as the Higher Committee of the Sheikh Zayed Festival finalises a program featuring an unprecedented 62-minute fireworks show, the world’s largest drone performance, and a diverse lineup of cultural and heritage events presented by participating countries, sponsors, and strategic partners.

The celebration reinforces the festival’s position as a global platform for culture, entertainment, and community connection.

The festival will present a landmark fireworks display aiming to break five new Guinness World Records.

The show will unfold in five stages throughout New Year’s Eve, beginning at 8 pm and culminating at midnight with the main display, which will run for 62 minutes continuously.

The fireworks will utilise the latest synchronisation and launch technologies, creating a breathtaking spectacle that illuminates the Al Wathba skyline on an unprecedented scale.

Visitors will also witness a groundbreaking drone show featuring 6,500 drones performing in a single 20-minute sortie.

The show includes nine giant aerial formations presented for the first time globally, synchronised with a digital countdown and integrated with the fireworks display.

The Higher Committee confirmed that entry will close once the site reaches full capacity to maintain visitors’ safety.

The committee urged the public to follow the festival’s official channels and secure their tickets early to ensure entry and benefit from available services.

Liwa Festival 

The Liwa region offers a unique New Year's Eve experience set against dramatic desert dunes. The celebration includes live music, cultural performances, traditional dances, and nightly fireworks displays inspired by the spirit of the festival.

Anantara Qasr Al Sarab

For those seeking tranquillity and luxury, Anantara Qasr Al Sarab hosts a five-minute fireworks display set against the golden dunes of the Empty Quarter.

The experience combines the calm of the desert with the excitement of New Year's Eve, creating an unforgettable moment beneath starlit skies.

Beachfront Fun at Marsana NYE

Marsana NYE offers a lively yet relaxed beachfront celebration featuring live entertainment throughout the evening. Guests can enjoy an international DJ, fire dancers, and dance performances, with a dedicated kids' play area making it ideal for families.


As the countdown ends, fireworks light up the skyline, followed by beach access and night swimming for those who want to continue the celebration.


Ticket prices: Children (6-12 years): from $28.34; adults (13+): from $56.68.

Children under 6 enter free.

Dedicated parking is available for ticket holders, subject to proof of purchase.

Whether you choose glamour, culture, family fun, or serene natural beauty, the UAE capital provides countless ways to start 2026 with unforgettable memories.