Best spots for New Year's Eve in Dubai
A city known for its glitz and glamour, would you want to be anywhere else this New Year’s? Dubai has plenty to offer in terms of festive celebration. Whether you want a luxurious once in a lifetime experience, or a more laid-back evening, Friends Provident International has the place for you.
Atlantis, The Palm
Home of The Palm’s New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner, an annual lavish event that draws Dubai’s most glamorous to the resort. Ticket prices include canapés and access to an exotic buffet, offering everything from lobster and sushi to live cooking stations and handcrafted desserts. Entertainment includes a 30-piece live band, and performances from the one and only Lionel Ritchie.
The lowest priced tickets start at a staggering AED6,900 (nearly £1,500), and the event requires at least a seven-day reservation at the hotel. But it’s a once in a lifetime experience unlike any other in the UAE.
Dubai Opera
End 2024 on a high note at the Opera. Dubai Opera is conveniently located just minutes away from the Burj Khalifa and is the premiere arts venue in the city. This year’s Gala Party features live jazz band ‘Souled Out’, along with other musical guests, a three course dinner and a view of the Burj Khalifa fireworks at midnight from the promenade. The Dubai Opera promises a sophisticated and relaxed evening, with ticket prices starting at AED 2,700.
TopGolf Dubai
Swing into 2025 at this unique NYE event. TopGolf Dubai offers 4 hours of game play on the tee line, food and fireworks. You and your friends can enjoy a quiet affair in your own private bay. Or join in with the music and dance with the live DJ. Both for golfing experts and novices, TopGolf is anything but ‘under par’ when it comes to celebrating New Year’s Eve. Prices start from 250 AED per person.
Dhow Dinner Cruise
Combining dining and sightseeing, make it a night to remember on the Dhow Dinner Cruise. This experience costs over AED 1,000 for a 3-hour journey around the Dubai Marina. Enjoy a lavish buffet dinner aboard a traditional Arabian dhow boat sailing around the panoramic views of the cityscape, and watch as the skyline lights up at midnight. Sites to see on this tour include Cayan Tower, Blue Water Island, Jumeirah Beach Residence, and Ain Dubai.
QE2
For a first-class experience, spend a vibrant evening aboard the opulent QE2. Once a British troop carrier in the Falklands War, the QE2 has been transformed into a luxury hotel docked in Mina Rashid. Step back in time and receive the royal treatment in the Queen’s Room as you are treated to an extravagant buffet dinner, live entertainment and a glass of sparkling wine to welcome in the New Year. Pricing starts at 575 AED per person - 250 AED for children.
Camp in the Desert
If you want a more intimate setting away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre then an unique option could be an overnight Desert Safari, just 30 minutes away from the city. Hire a dune buggy and speed away from Dubai’s glistening skyscrapers and right into the great outdoors. Reconnect with nature as you gaze upon the stars and watch/hear the fireworks in the distance. We recommend you bring some layers for this one, the desert can get cold at night. You can book on an organised NYE tour complete with guides and a meal, which costs around 400 AED per person, or do it yourself and save some money.
If you don’t want to spend a fortune, here are some prime free and/or cheap spots for ringing in the New Year.
Burj Khalifa
All eyes are on Downtown Dubai as the world’s tallest building is lit up by pyrotechnics, lights, and laser shows, along with Dubai Fountain’s engaging light and water show at the bottom of the tower. You could pay to eat at one of the many restaurants around the area to take it all in, but if you’re looking to save some money our recommendation is to head to Burj Park, which grants you a clear view of the fountain and firework performances.
Parks/Beaches
Dubai has plenty of beautiful public spaces where many groups partake in big picnic-style celebrations. Zabeel Park, Safa Park, and Kite Beach, are all popular sites for New Year’s Eve. So set up a barbeque and enjoy a relaxed evening ending in a beautiful fireworks display. This can be a great idea for celebrating with family and friends that doesn’t break the bank, although we recommend travelling early to secure a good spot!
Explore the La Mer waterfront
This promenade has lots going on during NYE including live music, carnival rides, and a petting zoo, making it a great place for kids. Laguna Water Park is nearby, so your kids can enjoy swimming by day, and festive celebrations at the waterfront at night. Many choose La Mer due to its convenient location and variety of activities and restaurants. For an offbeat, low-key evening – this is the place for families to be.
Global Village
A popular choice for NYE, Global Village hosts a spectacular celebration that features live performances from around the world and over 90 cultures, a global food bazaar, and a festive market. You don’t have to worry about missing the main event, Global Village will have a total of seven fireworks displays as each area celebrates midnight - corresponding to their regions’ time zones. Although not free, a value ticket costs just AED25, making it a cheap choice to celebrate the new year.