When the clock ticks closer to midnight on New Year’s Eve, Abu Dhabi will truly come alive. Beaches glow, deserts sparkle, and waterfronts buzz as fireworks light up the sky in every direction. Whether you’re after a record-breaking show or a relaxed spot to count down with family and friends, the capital has a fireworks view to match every New Year’s mood. This guide will give you all the best places to watch New Year’s Eve fireworks across Abu Dhabi. So, keep reading!
Also Read: MOTN Festival 2025 Returns To Abu Dhabi Bigger Than Ever – Everything You Need To Know
1. Sheikh Zayed Festival, Al Wathba
If you’re looking for the biggest and boldest fireworks display in the capital, Sheikh Zayed Festival is the place to be. This year’s New Year’s Eve celebrations feature an incredible 62-minute continuous fireworks show. Adding to the spectacle, thousands of drones take to the sky to form stunning 3D visuals inspired by Emirati heritage and national pride. Beyond the fireworks, you can also expect live performances, international pavilions, amusement rides and traditional experiences like falconry and crafts. With multiple viewing zones across the grounds, the evening will give you entertainment more than just a countdown.
- Date & Time: 31st December | From 8 PM onwards
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Festival, Al Wathba
- Price: From AED 10
2. Abu Dhabi Corniche
The Corniche remains a classic New Year’s Eve favourite and for good reason. Stretching along the coastline, it offers wide-open views of the sky, making it easy to find a comfortable spot to watch the fireworks. Families often gather along Corniche Beach to catch the show. Alternatively, you can also head towards organised zones like the MOTN Festival or Manar at Lulu Island. If you’re in the mood to spice up your NYE celebrations, visitors can even watch the fireworks from the water on jet skis. While it does get busy as midnight approaches, the open space means you can still enjoy the show without feeling boxed in.
- Date & Time: 31st December | From evening onwards
- Location: Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Price: Free
3. Yas Island
When you think of Abu Dhabi, you immediately think of Yas Island. This spot is one of the most versatile places to celebrate New Year’s Eve, with fireworks lighting up multiple areas, including Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Marina, Yas Beach and Manar at Samaliyah Island. Displays are scheduled twice, once at 9 PM and again at midnight, making it especially popular with families and those celebrating with younger children. The island blends entertainment, dining and waterfront views. While many hotels and venues offer ticketed packages, the public areas around Yas Bay and Yas Marina offer excellent views without advance booking.
- Date & Time: 31st December | From 9 PM onwards
- Location: Yas Island
- Price: Free
4. Liwa Festival
For a truly unique New Year’s Eve, head to the Liwa desert. Fireworks here light up the sky above vast dunes, with viewing spots across Liwa Village and near Tal Moreeb. You can also catch the fireworks above the famous ‘Scary Mountain’ dune. With no buildings or skyline to interrupt the view, the fireworks feel bigger, brighter and even more dramatic against the open desert night.
- Date & Time: 31st December
- Location: Liwa Village, Al Dhafra Region
- Price: AED 1O
5. Al Maryah Island
For a more city-style celebration, head to Al Maryah Island for skyline views with a touch of sophistication. Waterfront promenades and restaurants offer prime spots to watch fireworks reflected on the water at midnight. While dining spots fill up quickly, there are also public outdoor areas where you can catch the show without reservations. It’s a great option for those who want atmosphere and views, without the scale and crowds of major festivals.
- Date & Time: 31st December
- Location: Al Maryah Island Waterfront
- Price: Free
6. Al Hudayriyat Island
If you prefer a calmer, more relaxed New Year’s Eve, then Al Hudayriyat Island offers plenty of breathing room. The island’s beaches and open spaces are ideal for groups who want to spend the day cycling, surfing or relaxing before settling in for fireworks at night. Designed with beachfront picnic areas and glamping zones, this island also offers clear sightlines of the sky. It’s perfect for those wanting to avoid crowds while still enjoying the celebrations.
- Date & Time: 31st December | 8 PM – 1 AM
- Location: Al Hudayriyat Island
- Price: From AED 200 | AED 100 for kids (6 – 12 years old)
7. Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
One of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmarks plays host to a headline New Year’s Eve celebration. This year, this spot will ring in the new year with a live performance by John Legend and a midnight fireworks display. While the official gala dinner comes with a premium price tag, the fireworks themselves can still be enjoyed from nearby roads, pavements and surrounding open areas. It’s a great option to soak up the buzz of a luxury celebration and catch the fireworks without committing to the entire event.
- Date & Time: 31st December | From evening onwards
- Location: Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental and surrounding areas
- Price: Free from nearby roads | AED 3,500 for the NYE Gala + fireworks
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