In Pictures: UAE welcomes New Year 2023 with fireworks, light shows and cultural performances

Residents and tourists dressed in party colours thronged Dubai Mall to witness the celebrations at Burj Khalifa.

Families gathered early at Burj Park to grab vantage points from where to enjoy the Burj Khalifa fireworks and light show.

Cartoon characters entertain children at Global Village ahead of the fireworks and cultural performance at several pavilions.

Jumeirah Public Beach was filled with tents and picnic tables as families and friends prepared to bid farewell to 2022.

An Ayala dance at Shaikh Zayed Festival Abu Dhabi. The festival also hosted a fireworks show that lasted for 40 minutes. Residents and visitors had plenty of opportunities to take photos and videos for posterity at the festival.

Crowds watch as the sky lights up with spectacular New Year fireworks at Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah.

The Burj Al Arab lights up in a spectacular fireworks display watched by thousands gathered on nearby beaches.

People enjoy the dazzling fireworks display near the iconic Burj Al Arab.

People enjoy the dazzling fireworks display near the iconic Burj Al Arab.

Crowds enjoy the first of several New Year fireworks displays at Global Village. Thousands enjoyed the varied entertainment options at the venue.

Burj Khalifa fireworks light up Downtown Dubai to welcome the New Year. The fireworks were fired in 2, 500 directions.

A light show at Shaikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi, which also hosted a fireworks display and cultural programmes.

A spellbinding fireworks display held at Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah was enjoyed by thousands of revellers.

Revellers watch as the sky lit up with spectacular New Year fireworks at Al Majaz in Sharjah.

New Year's Eve light show illuminates the landmark Burj Khalifa tower at midnight in Dubai