Free fireworks in Dubai and UAE: Best spots for New Year's Eve (NYE) 2025

Dubai: New Year’s Eve is fast approaching and if you are looking for free ways to welcome 2025 in the UAE, there are plenty of fireworks, lasers and drone display to enjoy in each emirate. Here's your guide to the best free New Year’s Eve celebrations across Abu Dhabi, Dubai and beyond.

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1. Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi Corniche

The 8km waterfront is set to host fireworks displays and the best viewing spots include the Mother of the Nation Festival, the Corniche, and Manar Abu Dhabi at Lulu Island.

Yas Island

Catch two fireworks shows on Yas Island - one at 9pm and another at midnight to welcome 2025. Prime viewing locations include Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Marina, Yas Beach, and Manar at Samaliyah Island.

Sheikh Zayed Festival

Abu Dhabi is set to host the ‘world’s largest fireworks display’ with a 50-minute New Year’s Eve spectacle at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba. The event aims to break six Guinness World Records, featuring a 6,000-drone show creating aerial art for over 20 minutes.

Fireworks will begin hourly from 6pm, culminating in a record-breaking midnight finale. The celebrations will also include laser shows, cultural performances, and various activities.

While the festival requires tickets, the fireworks, laser, and drone displays can be viewed from nearby locations outside the event zone.

Liwa Festival

Motorsport enthusiasts will be treated to fireworks against the backdrop of Moreeb Dune, one of the tallest dunes in the region. The best views are from Tal Moreeb, Liwa Festival grounds, and Liwa Village.

Al Maryah Island

Celebrate at The Promenade with fireworks and a laser show. Enjoy the views from South and North Plaza, with laser shows scheduled at 10pm, 10.30pm, 11 pm, and 11.30 pm, culminating in a countdown to the midnight fireworks.

Other Abu Dhabi locations for fireworks

Entry is also free to the following locations where fireworks are planned:
• Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Ain
• Madinat Zayed Public Park, Al Dhafra
• Ghiyathi, Al Dhafra (best viewed from the Tamm Centre area)

2. Dubai

Burj Khalifa

All eyes will be on the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks. This year’s display, ‘Beyond Dreams’, will feature original music, over 200 state-of-the-art light beams, and a nine-minute showcase by 110 experts from 11 countries.

Before the countdown at midnight, you can head to Dubai Mall for The Dubai Fountain’s light and water show, building up to a grand finale. While Burj Park offers family-friendly paid viewing options, free spots include the Dubai Fountain Viewing Area, Souk Al Bahar, and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. To avoid road closures, it advised to arrive in Downtown Dubai by 5pm to secure a good spot.

Atlantis, The Palm

While the Atlantis Gala is a ticketed affair, you can enjoy the fireworks for free from the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, offering numerous vantage points.

Al Seef

Dubai’s heritage district at Al Seef, along Dubai Creek, offers a picturesque setting for free fireworks viewing amidst traditional dhows and architecture.

The Beach, JBR and Bluewaters

Located just opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence in Dubai Marina, The Beach will also be hosting a firework display. Near JBR, the Bluewaters Island will host a three-minute show which will complement The Beach at JBR's firework display.

Hatta

Spending New Year’s Eve in Hatta? Enjoy fireworks at the famous Hatta Sign, with the Hajar Mountains as a backdrop. This event is part of the Hatta Winter Festival and Dubai Shopping Festival celebrations.

Global Village

Although entry to Global Village is paid, you can watch the seven fireworks shows (hourly from 8pm to 1am) for free from nearby locations.

Other Dubai locations for fireworks

• Dubai Frame
• Dubai Design District
• Dubai Festival City
• J1 Beach (La Mer)

3. Sharjah

Al Majaz and Khorfakkan Beach

Enjoy a 10-minute firework shows at Al Majaz Waterfront or Khorfakkan Beach as you count down to the New Year.

4. Ajman

Ajman Tourism announced two locations for fireworks:

• Ajman Corniche

• Al Jurf area opposite Ajman Boulevard

The following locations are the viewing areas for the fireworks:

• Bahi Palace Ajman Hotel

• Ajman Hotel

• Fairmont Aiman Hotel

• Marsa Ajman

• Ajman Beach Hotel

• Radisson Blu Hotel Ajman

• Corner Lounge

• Ajman Food Festival

5. Ras Al Khaimah (RAK)

Fireworks and a laser show will light up the stretch between Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village. RAK is also hosting a free festival with entertainment, activities for children and food trucks. However, you must register your vehicle in advance to secure parking spot at Al Hamra Village. Click here to find out how. 

Ras Al Khaimah Police announced it will close certain roads from 4pm on December 31 for the New Year’s Eve fireworks. The closures will affect Cove Rotana Bridge, Emirates Roundabout, Al Hamra Roundabout, and Union Bridge.

6. Umm Al Quwain

Al Khor Waterfront

This popular beachfront destination will host fireworks display at midnight, offering a relaxing yet festive atmosphere to welcome 2025.

7. Fujairah

You can also catch fireworks at the Umbrella Beach, a family friendly beachfront destination which will start at midnight.