Dubai: Whether it’s a laser show or fireworks display that you want, celebration on land or at sea, different cities and attractions in the UAE have got you covered as you ring in the New Year.
January 1 is no-work day for most people so residents have the excuse to spend the night out or stay up wherever they want.
If you’re going to major event places, however, leave early and anticipate traffic to build up on roads near the hot spot. Traffic usually builds up near the Downtown Dubai and Jumeirah areas in Dubai and Al Qasba in Sharjah.
Also, forecasters expect the weather on Sunday to be humid and foggy. So if you’re driving late at night or early morning after ushering in the New Year, exercise caution while on the road as visibility could deteriorate.
With all the reminders done, here’s Gulf News’ top picks where you can usher in 2018 in the UAE:
Global Village
What to see: Now this is unique! Why not usher in the New Year seven times as seven select countries do?
Synchronise your watches and greet 2018 from seven pavilions at Global Village with seven fireworks shows.
Each celebration will coincide with the advent of the New Year in one of the seven selected countries from across the world beginning with the Philippine Pavilion at 8pm UAE time (midnight there). Thailand Pavilion is next at 9pm followed by Bangladesh at 10pm. India follows 30 minutes later and Pakistan at 11pm. The UAE Pavilion will have its fireworks at midnight followed by Turkey an hour later.
Cheb Khaled and DJ Nawaf will play international remixes in a live concert. All the pavilions will get together to organise the Parade of the World.
Important note: Global Village will be open from 4pm on December 31 to 2am on January 1, before reopening again to the public on the same day at 4pm. Entry to Global Village is Dh15 and residents may choose from the New Year’s Eve packs available.
Downtown Dubai
What to see: OK, there may not be the traditional fireworks display on the world’s tallest tower this year but there’s still the laser light display that’s vying for the record books and should be a must see!
Several buildings in Downtown Dubai will be the canvas for the laser show that will beam Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s images in time for the Year of Zayed this 2018.
Important note: Organisers are urging revellers to be at the venue before 5pm. Bachelors have a different path from families, so check it out first before heading to the venue. Those with reservations at hotels and restaurants in the Downtown Dubai area must carry access cards given to them by the hotels and restaurants where they’re booked.
Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah area
What to see: If you have Dh8,000 or more to splurge per adult (that’s 12 years and above), then you can dine at participating restaurants at the world’s only seven-star hotel and watch the spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display — one of the longest shows in the UAE. If not, you may also view it from a distance when you’re in Jumeirah.
Atlantis, The Palm
What to see: Whether it’s fireworks displays, sumptuous feasts or live entertainment you’re after, Atlantis promises to give you this and more.
Important note: Reservations are needed and rates apply.
Sea Dubai
What to see: Watch the fireworks displays along Jumeirah on-board more than 1,000 yachts organised by Sea Dubai for the ‘New Year’s Eve Yacht Gathering 2018’.
This unique three-day event beginning December 29 to 31 will have the Floating Seahorse as its centre stage for the light shows and music.
Dubai Festival City
What to see: This free-entry event features a light show plus fireworks combined! Dubai Festival City will feature its Guinness World Record-holder attraction, IMAGINE, currently the world’s largest light projection displayed on a curtain of 30 water fountains and mist. Four fireworks displays are scheduled at 9pm, 10pm, 11pm and the grand finale is at midnight to usher in 2018.
Countdown Village, Abu Dhabi
What to see: Abu Dhabi will have a four-day outdoor celebration to welcome 2018. The New Year’s Eve Countdown Village at Abu Dhabi Corniche breakwater has exciting packed events and entertainment — from thrilling concerts by international, regional and local performers, bands and DJs to activities like installations and workshops for the whole family.
And of course, a laser, lights and confetti shower extravaganza plus a 15-minute fireworks show as part of the countdown to 2018.
Important note: Bookings needed in advance for the December 31 show. General admission from 4pm to 2am is Dh40 per adult and free for children under 6. VIP rates apply.
Al Maryah Island and Yas Island at du Arena
What to see: If you fancy free concerts, Kadim Al Sahid and Balqees will be performing at Al Maryah Island at 10pm. A midnight fireworks display is also scheduled.
Over at du Arena on Yas Island, Katy Perry will enthral audiences. Tickets start from Dh350.
Al Majaz Waterfront, Sharjah
What to see: Watch a 10-minute fireworks display at Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah to be launched from 16 spots, following a countdown synchronised to varied shows by the Sharjah Fountain. The best viewing spots are Al Noor Island, Al Qasba, the Flag Island and Khalid Lagoon Corniche.
Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah
What to see: If you disdain city traffic but still want to see fireworks, here’s an idea. Head to Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah as they attempt the “largest aerial firework shell” for the Guinness World Records.
The pyrotechnic display will illuminate the night sky over the waterfront development with fireworks from 120 sites, creating a “spectacular canopy never seen before”. Two new public view areas and more than 5,000 additional public car parking spaces around Al Marjan Island will be set up to accommodate revellers.
Important note: Revellers are advised to be in the viewing areas before 8pm. Access to the viewing decks and to the main entrance of the island will be closed at 10pm.
