The United Arab Emirates is preparing for a spectacular welcome to 2026, with fireworks and light shows planned across the country, from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah. The nationwide celebrations highlight the UAE’s reputation for hosting world-class, safe, and large-scale events.
Dubai’s skyline will be illuminated by over 48 fireworks displays across 40 locations © Mena Today
The United Arab Emirates is preparing for a spectacular welcome to 2026, with fireworks and light shows planned across the country, from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah. The nationwide celebrations highlight the UAE’s reputation for hosting world-class, safe, and large-scale events.
In Abu Dhabi, the Al Wathba area will host one of the region’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations as part of the Sheikh Zayed Festival. The programme includes more than an hour of fireworks, attempts to break five Guinness World Records, and a 20-minute drone show featuring 6,500 drones forming large-scale artistic scenes, culminating at midnight.
Dubai’s skyline will be illuminated by over 48 fireworks displays across 40 locations. Major landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Frame, Expo City Dubai and Global Village will host celebrations, alongside a large aerial drone show linked to the Dubai Shopping Festival at Bluewaters and JBR.
Ras Al Khaimah is set to stage its biggest display to date, stretching six kilometres from Al Marjan Island to Al Hamra Island. The 15-minute show will combine fireworks, lasers, and more than 2,300 drones, ending with the launch of the largest fireworks shell ever.
In Sharjah, fireworks will light up Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Heera Beach, and Khorfakkan Beach, alongside festive events at locations including Al Noor Island and Mleiha National Park.
Celebrations will also take place in Ajman, Umm Al Qaiwain and Fujairah, offering free, public events starting from 8:00pm on Wednesday, 31 December 2025, as the UAE welcomes the New Year with unity, innovation, and celebration.
Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a new hub in Africa’s gold trade, announcing that it is ready to begin purchasing bullion directly from Sudan in a move that could reshape long-established export routes dominated by Dubai.
Air France resumed flights to Dubai on Saturday, just one day after suspending the route, citing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The abrupt stop-and-go decision has raised questions about the airline’s risk assessment and consistency.
Russian Admiral Igor Kostyukov is set to head Moscow's team at trilateral security talks with the U.S. and Ukraine on Friday in Abu Dhabi, as part of efforts to reach a deal to end the war in Ukraine
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