UAE welcomes 2010 with fireworks, Rihanna gig

Dubai: Bursting fireworks lit up the night skies over the UAE on Thursday evening, as the Emirates welcomed in the new year.

Young and old watched from the beaches, restaurants and high-rise apartments as the multicoloured sparks exploded high in the air.

Revellers in Abu Dhabi were treated to a special new year performance by starlet Rihanna. Her excited fans danced their way into 2010, and were treated to a fireworks display at the close of the show.

Restaurants and venues across Dubai were fully booked, packed to the brim with residents crowding to celebrate the beginning of a new decade, and for some the end of 2009.