Heading to the millionaire’s playground for a swanky New Year’s Eve? This flashy city lines up champagne soirees, light shows, fireworks over its record-breaking landmarks, and even desert safaris.

Here are the best ways to spend New Year’s Eve in Dubai…

Be dazzled by fireworks and light shows

Dubai don’t things by halves – the city is home to several record-breaking landmarks and attractions after all. And, their NYE shows are no exception either. The Burj Al Arab hotel puts on a stunning pyrotechnic display that you can watch from Jumeirah or Kite Beach with hundreds of other revelers. There’s also a gorgeous display at Atlantis, The Palm, which you can see from the hotel itself or the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk.

In previous years, there was an NYE fireworks show at the Burj Khalifa, but this has recently been replaced with a laser and light show. The equally-stunning spectacle combines light and water for a unique show to welcome in the New Year.

City Tour – Red, Stop: The Dubai Mall

Party on the water

Hop onto a traditional Arabian dhow boat and celebrate NYE on the river. You’ll tuck into a delectable five-course dinner while drifting along the Dubai creek and enjoying the views of the skyscrapers. The three-deck boat has a dancefloor so you’ll get the chance to throw some shapes, and there’s traditional Emirati dance shows and henna painting to enjoy. The best bit? You’ll get a perfect view of the city’s fireworks from the comfort of your seat.

Celebrate in the desert

Spend a unique New Year’s Eve in the Middle East by celebrating on the sand. Instead of the usual fireworks and midnight countdown parties, take a safari tour into the Dubai desert and stay overnight in a traditional Arabian camp. You’ll whizz over huge sand dunes and see a gorgeous sunset across the film-set scenery. Then, when you reach camp, you’ll be treated to an evening of activities including belly dancing shows, henna painting, live music, and a lavish buffet spread. After partying the night away, you can continue your desert adventure with sandboarding or camel rides.

Enjoy a sophisticated soiree

Fancy a swanky night out in the millionaire’s playground? Book tickets to the Royal Gala at  Atlantis, The Palm hotel and you can celebrate in style with a luxury buffet. The impressive food selection includes everything from seafood to Mexican fare. And there’s free-flowing Champagne to make sure you’re in the party spirit at all times. There’s a live band that plays until 3am, and of course, you’ll be in a prime spot to enjoy the fireworks over the hotel too.

Marina Tour – Blue, Stop: Atlantis the Palm

Dance the night away

Dubai’s New Year’s Eve parties are simply dazzling. Party on the beach to top DJ hits at Zero Gravity, Dubai’s famous beach club. Or flex those vocal chords at the Lucky Voice New Year’s Eve karaoke brunch. There are also huge annual NYE events at the Blue Marlin nightclub and the 360° Restaurant and Bar, where you’ll get amazing views of the Dubai skyline while you party the night away.


Ready to ring in the New Year in Dubai? This city pulls out all the stops to make sure visitors have the best New Year’s Eve ever. Browse our Dubai bus tours and attractions to find more things to do in this eclectic city.