The biggest night of the year is coming up, and it’s time to start planning how you are going to spend it. Abu Dhabi, a city famous for its luxurious lifestyle and vibrant culture, transforms into a hub of excitement as the countdown for the new year begins.
From dazzling fireworks lighting up the skyline to lavish gala dinners, live music performances, and family-friendly festivities, there’s something for everyone in Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, enjoy a serene waterfront view or indulge in gourmet dining under the stars, Abu Dhabi promises an unforgettable start to the new year.
If you are planning to celebrate the beginning of 2025 in Abu Dhabi, look no further. Here is a list of the best locations to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks in the UAE’s capital Abu Dhabi:
Top fireworks displays in Abu Dhabi
Yas Island
Yas Island also offers plenty of fun year-round, and Yas Bay Waterfront is filled with funky rooftop lounges and a host of venues where you can enjoy New Year’s Eve fireworks. Head to Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Marina, Yas Beach or Manar at Samaliyah Island for the best views of the Yas Island fireworks show.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
The Abu Dhabi Corniche has eight kilometers of walkable waterfront between the soaring skyline and shimmering Gulf. Watch the Abu Dhabi Corniche fireworks from the 2023 MOTN Festival, Manar at Lulu Island or Corniche Beach to get the best views as the new year begins. For a more exhilarating celebration, you can also rent a jet ski and head out to sea.
Sheikh Zayed Festival
You can also enjoy a range of events, popular performances and fireworks in Al Wathba as you celebrate New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi this year. Overnighters can watch the Sheikh Zayed Festival fireworks from the Camping Village or try the Heritage Village or Majlis area for the best views after exploring the festival.
Watch Al Maryah Island’s new laser and light show
This New Year’s Eve, Abu Dhabi’s Al Maryah Island is replacing its fireworks show with a new spectacular laser and light show. The celebrations will also include the Island’s renowned Winter Wonderland entertainment from 7:00 p.m. until 1:00 a.m. at the Promenade.
An assembly of 500 drones will Light up the Night on New Year’s Eve as Abu Dhabi prepares to ring in 2025. The spectacle will take visitors on a visual journey unlike anything they’ve ever seen before. The light show and laser display will transform the Al Maryah Island waterfront into a vibrant spectacle. The captivating performances will illuminate the night sky at The Promenade, creating a magical and unforgettable atmosphere for visitors.
Adding more excitement to the night, jet ski, flyboard and pyro jacket performers will showcase the skill and precision of talented riders as they execute stunts on the water. These high-energy acts will take place along the waterfront, bringing an extra layer of dynamism to the celebrations.
Celebrate at Abu Dhabi’s best hotels and resorts
The Annual NYE Masquerade Party is back at Rosewood Abu Dhabi. Celebrate New Year at the biggest party of the year in Abu Dhabi which promises perfect views of Al Maryah Island’s spectacular show featuring mesmerizing lasers, vibrant light displays, and thrilling jet ski acrobatics along the waterfront. Catch DJs Keith Dobbs, Rob Forrest, Milan on sax, and Ghaith on drums to welcome 2025 in style.
You can also visit the Four Seasons Hotel Abu Dhabi at Al Maryah Island to enjoy a New Year’s brunch or dinner at one of the hotel’s extravagant restaurants. Enjoy a lavish dinner featuring a DJ who will keep the energy high at Butcher & Still. New Year’s Eve dinner starts from 7:00 PM onwards. Four Seasons Abu Dhabi also offers a serene setting to welcome the New Year at Al Meylas.
Dining and entertainment options
Start your evening on New Year’s Eve at Zuma with a vibrant atmosphere in the restaurant and lounge. You can also book a semi-private room to celebrate with family and friends.
From the Moon Deck at Le Méridien, you will have a front-row seat for the Al Maryah Island lights show. You can also ring in 2025 with a sophisticated evening at Al Meylas Lounge. Indulge in a set menu featuring world-class food and luxurious desserts to end the year on a high note.
Park Hyatt is also throwing an emerald green party to celebrate the new year on a high note. Feast on an international buffet with live entertainment from DJs, dancers and singers.
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi with a lavish six-course meal at The Forge, designed for those with a refined taste. With exquisite dishes and an elegant atmosphere, this spot is one of the best gourmet experiences.
Fireworks at public venues
Liwa International Festival
Liwa International Festival is set to draw tens of thousands of motorsports fans, and families for a thrilling blend of adventure, culture and unforgettable experiences within the desert’s grand stage — Abu Dhabi’s golden dunes.
For New Year’s Day, the Electronic Freestyle Championship will see motorsports meet modern technology in a showcase. In the evening, Abadi Al Johar and Rahma Riad will take the stage, promising a spectacular concert to ring in 2025 with the fireworks display over Liwa’s dunes.
Liwa Village sits at the heart of the festival, offering a variety of activities and attractions. Families can visit the Wanasa Zone for carnival rides, a petting zoo and an escape room. Nearby, there is also the Night Oasis, an immersive museum.
While visiting, explore traditional crafts at the Liwa Village Souk, where you will find handicrafts created by local artisans, each piece telling a story of Liwa’s cultural heritage.
Madinat Zayed Public Park
As one of Al Dhafra’s most celebrated public parks, this is the perfect place to warm up and enjoy one of Abu Dhabi’s finest fireworks displays on New Year’s Eve. Grab a picnic blanket and camping chairs and find a cozy spot in the park ahead of the midnight display.
Al Hudayriyat Island
With cycling, padel and surfing facilities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy an action-packed New Year’s Eve in the UAE on Al Hudayriyat Island before settling down to watch the fireworks. Al Hudayriyat Island fireworks are best viewed while glamping at Bab Al Nojoum or picnicking on a beachfront.
Tal Moreeb
The iconic ‘Scary Mountain’ dune is another winter favorite for dune bashers and motorsports enthusiasts. This year’s Liwa Festival has plenty of festivities including the iconic New Year’s Eve fireworks. To capture the best views of the show, head to all the main built-up areas around the Tal Moreeb dune, Liwa Festival, and Liwa Village.
Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain
The home of Al Ain FC is a significant landmark in Oasis City, with a facade inspired by the trunk of a palm tree. Al Ain residents and day trippers can head to the stadium for gorgeous views of the Hazza bin Zayed Stadium New Year’s Eve fireworks, where plenty of parking is available.
Mugheirah Bay Waterfront, Al Mirfa
Mugheirah Bay is home to a rich selection of retail, leisure and lifestyle experiences, all set upon the glistening Al Dhafra shoreline. Book a stay at one of Al Mirfa’s top resorts, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the New Year’s Eve fireworks display. You can also escape the city among the area’s lush mangroves ahead of the coastal fireworks show.
Ghiyathi
If you are visiting the UAE, you can also enjoy New Year’s Eve fireworks in the quaint Ghiyathi, a small town in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi, 12 miles from the coast. It’s an ideal stop-off to Madinat Zayed, Liwa Oasis or other parts of the Western Region. New Year’s revelers can enjoy the spectacular fireworks displays from the Tamm Center area.
Read: Best places to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks in Dubai
Tips and essentials
Getting there
- Plan ahead to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks in Abu Dhabi, with multiple spots to choose from, and make sure to reach the venue early to secure a good spot.
- Consider watching the fireworks at Al Marfa, Al Mugheirah Beach, Ghiyathi, Liwa International Festival or Sheikh Zayed Festival.
Safety and security
- Ensure your safety and security during the New Year’s Eve celebrations by following the instructions of the authorities and being aware of your surroundings.
Weather
- Check the weather forecast before heading out to watch the fireworks, and dress accordingly to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
