UAE: 4 Unique & Last-Minute Ways To Celebrate NYE Away From The Crowds

Welcome New Year's In An Alternative Way - Away From City Celebrations

It’s time to get out with the old and in with the New… Year! It’s almost that time of year again when the streets of Dubai are going to be bustling with more people than you imagined this city even had. From over-the-top record-breaking fireworks to extravagant parties that last till dawn, Dubai knows how to celebrate New Year’s Eve. But this time around some Dubai residents are ready to ditch their usual NYE plans and head out of the city to the desert for a serene and quieter celebration. If this sounds like an idea you can get behind, keep reading to find out more.

Getting Out Of The City Craze For The Night

To bypass heavy traffic and road closures, many residents are planning to leave their homes or workplaces early in the afternoon on Wednesday, December 31st. By heading to their favourite desert spots, these residents are looking to spend good quality time with family and friends without the interruption of loud noises and bright lights.

Celebrating NYE From Afar

Many of these NYE campers are planning to rent well-equipped campsites which have amenities such as restrooms and entertainment facilities. Evening activities could include games, marshmallow roasting, BBQ dinner and looking back at the past year with gratitude.

And if you’re planning on heading out to the desert this NYE too, here are a few of our top picks!

The Best Desert Camping Spots Around UAE

1. Al Quaa Milky Way Spot

Known as the darkest spot in the UAE, Al Quaa did not get its ‘Milky Way Spot’ name for no reason! You’ll need a 4×4 to reach it, as it’s located deep in the desert, but it’s absolutely worth the trip. Pop the coordinates into Google Maps (23.604633,54.750256) and prepare to be amazed by the stars!

2. Shuweihat Island

Want to enjoy a scenic night away from the loud bustling city and an awe-inspiring night of stargazing? Shuweihat Island is the place to be. Around a 4-hour drive from Dubai, this tranquil island offers stunning views of salt flats by day and starry skies by night. Bring a 4×4 vehicle for the journey, and you’ll be treated to a truly serene escape.

3. Al Qudra

Al Qudra is one of the UAE’s most well-known stargazing spots and is super easy to reach from Dubai. The trick is to head beyond the lakes and cycle tracks, finding a quieter spot away from the city lights!

4. Wadi Shawka

If you love combining hiking with stargazing, Wadi Shawka in Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect spot. Less than an hour from Dubai, this natural gem draws nature lovers for its clean mountain air and wide-open skies. Arrive early to find the best camping spot, and enjoy a night under the stars like never before.

Happy New Year to all my desert campers! Stay safe and be mindful of your belongings and other people around you.