Fireworks, Bollywood flair, giant parades and sky-high theatrics? The city is going all out this year.
Downtown Dubai has never been shy about doing things big… but this year’s New Year’s celebration? It’s a full-scale Dubai-level upgrade. For the first time ever, the city is stretching the festivities into an eight-day spectacle, running from December 31 to January 7, 2026, turning the world’s most iconic countdown into a week-long festival of lights, music and pure end-of-year magic.
And the best part is that it’s no longer a “blink and you’ll miss it” moment. Whether you’re a resident, traveller, or fireworks enthusiast, you’ll have multiple chances to experience the show in all its glitz and glory.
In true Dubai fashion, the NYE fireworks just get bigger, bolder, and better.
The Biggest NYE Production Dubai Has Ever Attempted (this year, at any rate)
The celebration unfolds across Downtown Dubai, from the Dubai Mall promenade and Burj Lake to the full façade of the Burj Khalifa, which means the entire district becomes one giant open-air stage. Expect:
- Aerial acrobatics
- Live performances and moving platforms
- Dazzling visuals lighting up the sky
- Dubai’s signature fireworks, bigger than ever
This isn’t just a countdown, it’s a multi-location, city-wide production designed so everyone gets a perfect view, whether you’re lakeside, mall-side, or watching from your balcony.
Burj Park: The Best Seat in the House
If you want the most comfortable, uninterrupted, and downright “wow” view of the show, Burj Park is the place to be.
The park will be transformed into an elevated viewing experience complete with amenities, space to breathe, and front-row access to the spectacle, ideal for families, groups, and anyone who prefers glam over crowds. But get there early and expect huge crowds.
This Year, Bollywood Joins the Party
In true Dubai fashion, the city is adding a dramatic twist: a Bollywood-infused performance curated with Frontstage, part of Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chilies Entertainment.
Expect high-energy dance sequences, cinematic flair, and the kind of sparkle only Bollywood can deliver. If you love a spectacle with rhythm, colour and a little drama then this is perfect for you.
Expect a high energy Bollywood performance.
A Parade You Won’t Want to Miss
The festivities also include a massive parade, featuring towering floats, oversized puppets, and immersive visuals that bring Dubai’s creativity to life. The parade winds through Downtown, making it a great open-air experience if you’re exploring on foot.
Kids can also join themed workshops, while everyone else can graze their way through food trucks, stalls and pop-ups dotted across the district.
What Emaar Says
Emaar’s Founder, Mohamed Alabbar, summed it up best: “Every moment, every light and every spectacle has been designed to capture the spirit, creativity and ambition of our city.”
Translation: this will be the region’s loudest, brightest, most ambitious NYE yet.
Burj Park Tickets: What You Need to Know
Tickets are now live. Here’s the breakdown:
- Adults: AED 950
- Children (5–12): AED 550
- Under 5: Free (but must be registered for an access badge)
Getting There: What You Need to Know
If you’re heading into Downtown for the show, plan ahead — this is one night the city doesn’t mess around with crowds. Aim to arrive by 4pm to avoid road closures and secure the smoothest possible entry.
Before 4pm:
Parking is first-come, first-served at Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Zabeel Parking, and Fountain Views.
After 4pm:
You’ll need to head to Al Wasl Club Parking or Al Meydan – Falcon Heritage & Sports Centre, where shuttle buses will take you to the venue. Your event badge is essential, you’ll need it to board the shuttle and again after the celebrations when everyone is heading home.
Metro:
The metro will operate, though stations may close at the authorities’ discretion, depending on the crowd flow.
Taxis:
Cabs run as normal before closures kick in, but won’t be able to enter Downtown once roads shut.
For real-time updates on road closures, metro changes, and transport timings, keep an eye on the RTA website as things can shift quickly on a night this busy.
Tickets available via the official booking link.
