Celebrate NYE in style on a budget: Creative ways to usher in 2025

The magic is in the details! It’s the little touches that turn an ordinary party into an unforgettable one. From quirky invitations to a fun theme that sets the vibe, it's all about those personal flourishes that get everyone talking long after the party’s over. For instance, Kristy Torres, a Dubai-based entrepreneur puts much thought into her invitations: In fact, it’s the first thing that she plans before a party. “I really enjoy doing that. I think it helps in creating an atmosphere of fun and interest,” she says, recalling how she spends hours designing a card, according to themes.

Meanwhile, Anjali Menon, an Abu Dhabi-based homemaker fills her living room with different-coloured helium balloons, as it’s something her four-year-old daughter loves playing with. It creates an atmosphere of cheer, cosiness and warmth. As both Menon and Torres show: You really don’t need to break the bank to host a memorable party, especially if it’s at your own home.

So, how to go about it? Well, we do have some ideas.

DIY balloon garlands

When in doubt, you can always consult TikTok. It’s what Menon did: And that’s how she got the idea for balloon garlands.  These colourful, eye-catching decorations can completely transform a room without costing a fortune. Head to a party supply store or shop online for a balloon kit and get crafting. It’s as simple as stringing the balloons together using clear fishing wire or tape. Add some metallic balloons or glittery elements to amp up the effect. You can place your balloon garland as a backdrop for photos or at the entrance to make your party space feel extra special.

Want to go all out? Go for neon!

Abu Dhabi-based Julia Sleigh had a rather rough 2023, and she was determined to bring 2024 in with some cheer. So, she decided that her NYE party would be all about glow-up aesthetics, and a glow-in-the-dark theme, which turned out to be the perfect way to elevate an NYE bash. Think glow sticks, neon body paint, and black lights that’ll turn your living room into a luminous party zone. You can find glow-in-the-dark decor on a budget, and even better—everyone loves the playful energy that neon brings. “Create DIY neon signs using LED strips, paint your walls with fluorescent colors, or even paint your nails with glow-in-the-dark polish,” she says.  The best part? It’s totally customisable to your space, and you’ll have an unforgettable vibe that’ll make the midnight hour extra magical.

Potluck dinners: A great way to save money

A potluck dinner is not just practical—it’s also an easy way to make your NYE party feel more personal. In a potluck dinner, everyone is responsible for bringing their own dish, while you handle the main dish or dessert, advises Radhika Gulati, a former food caterer, based in Abu Dhabi. A veteran party planner as she calls herself, she says that some of the best dos in a UAE party involve finger foods, which people can eat with a toothpick on a plate. Get creative with your salads and try out new dips.

DIY decor

Get creative with affordable decor options like fairy lights, streamers, and candles, says Alicia Leyton, a Dubai-based event planner. “You can easily find festive supplies at local stores or even online marketplaces. Why not go for a gold-and-silver theme to add that sparkly NYE touch? For extra flair, create a photo booth corner with a backdrop you can DIY using a curtain or a simple sheet.”

Confetti popper station: Pop, sparkle, celebrate

It wouldn’t be New Year’s Eve without a bit of confetti flying around! TikTok has some genius DIY confetti popper ideas that you can make at home. Grab some balloons, and glitter. “Stuff the rolls with confetti or tiny notes that guests can read at midnight. When the clock strikes twelve, hand them out for everyone to pop at the same time—creating a burst of joy and a memorable way to ring in the new year,” explains Leyton.

Retro video games

For a twist, set up a retro video game station with games. It will bring out everyone’s competitive spirit and create a fun throwback vibe.

Games and activities

There’s nothing like a good game of charades and karaoke to get a party going. So, set up fun, free activities to keep guests entertained throughout the night. You can do a trivia contest, or set up a karaoke machine.  Games like charades or Pictionary will have everyone laughing and create memories.

Throwing a memorable NYE party in the UAE is all about creativity, great company, and making the most of what you have. With these simple tips, you’ll ring in the new year with style, fun, and more money in your pocket to make 2024 your best year yet!