The best spots to celebrate NYE in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

With 2021 almost behind us, the countdown to 2022 begins. If you haven’t figured out what to do for New Year’s Eve yet, this one’s for you.

NYE is the biggest party of the year. And it’s bound to get even bigger in the UAE. To welcome 2022, plenty of events are already lined up throughout the UAE.

In this list, we’re highlighting the best places to be in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Here’s what you need to know.

New Year’s Eve hotspots in Dubai

1. Burj Khalifa

It doesn’t get grander than this iconic downtown spot. The world’s tallest building is all geared up to light itself and the sky up for a truly impressive show called ‘Eve of Wonders.’

If you’re planning to witness this stunner of a show, there are several venues that offer the best vantage points, ranging from hotels and restaurants to bars and cafes. If you want to head downtown and brave the crowd, download U by Emaar to get an individual pass.

2. Burj Al Arab

Next on our list: Burj Al Arab. The world-famous sail-shaped hotel promises a breathtaking start to the year annually with an ostentatious firework display of its own, made even more dramatic with the Arabian Sea as the backdrop.

Aside from checking in to Burj Al Arab, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a perfect spot if you want to enjoy the show. Meanwhile, Kite Beach, Jumeirah Beach, and Umm Suqeim are great places to be without getting pricey.

3. Atlantis, The Palm

A night of grand entertainment awaits if you’re at Palm Jumeirah. Atlantis, The Palm is one of the favorite places people flock to for NYE.

This year, a special guest performance by Robbie Williams will complement the celebration on top of food, music, and pyrotechnics. As with Burj Al Arab, you can head to Kite Beach, Jumeirah Beach, and Umm Suqeim and to get a glimpse of the firework display at midnight!

4. Ain Dubai

Not to be left behind, the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel, which opened in October this year, is a noteworthy addition to this list. Ain Dubai is one of the most unique entertainment destinations everyone is looking forward to.

On December 31, Ain Dubai will operate from 9:30 pm to 12:30 am, granting guests front row seats to the firework and drone show at Bluewaters Island. That’s not all. Offering a 360-degree view of Dubai, you will get to see the sky light up from Burj Al Arab, Atlantis, The Palm, and Expo 2020!

5. Expo 2020

From sound and light shows to internationally-acclaimed artists, Expo 2020 promises one unforgettable celebration for 13 hours.

Yes, 13 hours! And not just one but two firework displays. Legendary DJs Armin Van Burren and Dimitri Vegas are also scheduled to fire up the crowd. If you’re looking for the best family-friendly venue, it’s by far the best one here.

New Year’s Eve hotspots in Abu Dhabi

1. The Corniche

Now off to Abu Dhabi where there is a full slate of celebrations scheduled to take place. And we start with the classic: The Corniche.

This iconic beachfront location is everyone’s favorite spot to watch the mesmerizing display across the capital every year. It’s a free-for-all so make sure to come early to set yourself up.

2. Emirates Palace

Want to get closer to the action and all-out festivity? Abu Dhabi’s landmark hotel Emirates Palace is for you.

Emirates Palace is a truly remarkable place to be. And it’s double that on with their New Year’s Eve Gala, where you can watch the massive firework display up close from the private beach.

3. Yas Island

One of the best places to be is, of course, Yas Island! The capital’s entertainment hub is known for painting the sky in a blaze of colors with its annual countdown. This year is no different!

Bollywood superstar Atif Aslam will close out the year with a performance of his biggest hits. Meanwhile, venues like Mr. Miyagi and Cipriani as well as many others on the island, have something special for guests so go check them out.

4. Al Maryah Island

Another capital favorite to ring in the New Year. Al Maryah Island is going all out with a series of events aptly named ‘The Capital Celebrates.”

Hussain Al Jassmi, Elissa, and Balqees, three of the region’s biggest names, will entertain the audience with live performances in the South Plaza. The finale? A jaw-dropping firework display when the clock strikes midnight.

5. Sheikh Zayed Festival

Celebrate NYE like no other at Sheikh Zayed Festival as they attempt to set three Guinness World Records with the largest fireworks display in terms of volume, duration, and form.

This gigantic pyrotechnic extravaganza is expected to last for a good 40 minutes. Plus, there will be 2,022 drones hovering over Al Wathba to cap it all off. Cool, right?

With hotels almost fully booked, especially in Dubai, you might want to look into short-term rental stays. Now round up your family or friends because NYE will be here in a blink. Happy 2022, y’all!