Experiencing Dubai during New Year's Eve is a one-of-a-kind affair for any kind of traveler. The city comes to life with a wide range of celebrations, ringing in the New Year in style. New Year's Eve in Dubai is exciting and fun with firework shows, dazzling parties, night safaris, cruises and so many more experiences for you to choose from. Head to Dubai for a fulfilling New Year's Eve experience and read on to find the best things to do in Dubai for New Year's Eve.

Top Attractions in Dubai on New Year's Eve

Weather in Dubai during New Year’s Eve

Highest Temp: 23.5°C

Lowest Temp: 20°C

Chances of Rain: No chance of rain on December 31, 2023

What to Wear: Comfortable clothing that is appropriate for the places you are visiting should be good for New Year’s Eve as the weather is likely to be mild and pleasant.

Dubai in December

Top 9 Things to do in Dubai on New Year's Eve

1. Witness Dazzling Fireworks at Burj Khalifa

Millions of tourists visit the city every year because of the Burj Khalifa. The fireworks here during New Year's Eve are among the most televised and popular in the world. People from all across the world gather to witness the year's final countdown. However, you will be entertained not only by the spectacular fireworks but also by the light and water show that takes place at midnight.

What to Expect: One of Dubai's most popular New Year's Eve experiences, the Burj Khalifa fireworks are extravagant and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tips: Guests can register on the U by Emaar app for private viewing in Downtown Dubai. You’ll be assigned a viewpoint where you would have to display a QR code to get access to the area.

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2. Watch a Show and Have Dinner at Dubai Opera

Celebrate the New Year in Dubai with a regal meal and a spectacular entertainment show at the Dubai Opera. When the clock strikes twelve, the DJ takes over and the crowd at the Dubai Opera goes wild to the iconic beats. This is one of the most complete new year’s eve plan you could opt for when you are in Dubai.

What to Expect: A royal evening with great performances and a one-of-a-kind experience.

Tips: There is no valet service at Dubai Opera. On performance days, the rate for Green Parking Zone is AED 50 per visit (Flat rate 2 hours before the show).

3. Go on a Luxury Dinner Cruise

If the fireworks, parties, and fancy dinners are too cliché for your Dubai New Year's Eve plans, board one of the classic dhow cruises, or even one of the popular cruises, to avoid the crowds while still experiencing the New Year's atmosphere. Get aboard a 350-passenger catamaran with live entertainment onboard and a lavish feast cooked by experienced chefs to ring in the New Year in Dubai in style. While you sail over the stream in calm and tranquillity, see the fireworks from various locations of the city.

What to Expect: Choose a cruise along Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek, and Dubai Water Canal. Each offers unique experiences

Tips: Timings for your cruise vary depending on the slot you choose. Evening dinner cruises, as well as daytime cruises, are open to the public. You can choose your cruise based on your convenience and availability.

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4. Beach Picnic On New Year’s Eve

One of the greatest ways to commemorate new year's eve activities in Dubai. Picnics can be taken to one of Jumeirah's public beaches or Jumeirah Beach Residences' private beaches. This is not only a cheap way to see the fireworks for free, but it is also a terrific way to ring in the new year with family and friends. However, like with other of Dubai's busiest spots around the new year, it is recommended that you arrive a little early to secure your space.

What to Expect: A low-key event that is easy on the budget and offers you quality time with your loved ones.

Tips: Reach the beach a little early in the evening to secure your space and watch the fireworks at midnight.

5. Go on a Desert Safari

One of the most thrilling and colorful ways to ring in the new year in Dubai is to go on a desert safari. A desert safari excursion in Dubai can include anything from dune bashing to sunset views to a colorful evening filled with activities like belly dance, buffets, and henna painting. And a fireworks display lights up the night as per usual.

What to Expect: An evening under the stars with experiences you can customize to ring in the New Year in whichever way you like.

Tips: Carry some warm clothing causes evenings in the desert to tend to get a little chilly.

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6. Attend a Happening New Year’s Eve Party

New Year’s Eve parties are one of the hippest ways to ring in the new year in Dubai. Several restaurants and bars have their own parties planned with live music and stocked bars. In addition to these, you should check out the annual Zero Gravity Party which is known for bringing global music sensations to Dubai. You can also go for one of the many live concerts that take place in different parts of the city.

What to Expect: Great music, world-class DJs, delicious food, and a great atmosphere.

Tips: There will be huge crowds, so reach early or book tickets in advance to secure a spot.

7. Spend Your Time at Madinat Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah has one of the most special New Year’s gala dinners with fire dancers, musicians, live entertainment and champagne. This resort is a tribute to Dubai’s Arabian heritage. Madinat Jumeirah translates to City of Jumeirah and houses four luxury hotels, the world-class Talise Spa, the Madinat Souk and 44 restaurants and bars.

What to Expect: A mini-city with five-star hotels, ornate souks and beachfront hotspots.

Tips: To see the fireworks carry a beach mat and head to one of the public beaches at Jumeirah. Remember to reach early to find a good parking spot.

8. Explore Waterfront Markets like La Mer

For an offbeat New Year's Eve experience in Dubai head to La Mer, a gorgeous waterfront market. Bask in the festivities with live music, carnival rides and a petting zoo. You'll also get gorgeous views of the fireworks from here.

What to Expect: Wide open walkways lined with palm tree boulevards, graffiti art and cabanas, La Mer Dubai is a gorgeous representation of a minimalist contemporary design.

Tips: There are 4 zones at La Mer: The Beach, The Entertainment Hub, The North Island and The South Island. Do a little research beforehand to decide where you would want to spend the most time during New Year's Eve.

9. Ring in the New Year at Global Village

The New Year Eve celebration at Global Village is a favorite among locals and tourists. It will give you the chance to witness New Year traditions of more than 75 countries around the world. The Carnaval is a hit among kids and they are bound to be entertained.

What to Expect: Thousands flock here for the New Year's Eve celebrations so prepare for huge crowds.

Tips: Valet parking services will not be available. Paid parking will be provided in front of the Gate of the World.

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Plan Your New Year Eve in Dubai

Getting Around

Where to Eat

Where to Stay

Metro: The Red Line will be active from 5 AM on December 31 to 1 AM on January 2. The Green Line will begin half an hour later on December 31 at 5:30 AM and continue until 1 AM on January 2.

Bus: Visitors will be transported to metro stations by 200 buses that will run throughout the emirate. 78 buses will also run on significant routes such as the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station to Al Wasl Club, Sheikh Zayed Road to Dubai World Trade Centre, and Al Jafiliya Metro Station to Musallah Al Eid Parking lots at Deira City Centre and Al Mankhool.

Tram: Dubai Tram will be available from 6 AM on December 31 to 1 AM on January 2.

More about Getting Around Dubai

Brunch (Cost for 2)

Dinner (Cost for 2)

Atmosphere Restaurant: from $245
Cabana: from $121
Thiptara: from $141

Cost for two

Budget
Holiday Inn Bur Dubai: from $93
J5 Rimal: from $113
Sea View Hotel: from $83

Mid-range
Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road: from $270
DoubleTree by Hilton: from $248
Aparthotel Adagio Premium Dubai Al Barsha: from $227
Luxury
InterContinental Dubai Festival City: from $374
Atlantis The Palm: from $780
Shangri-La Hotel: from $325

Tips for celebrating New Year's Eve in Dubai

Parking can be a major issue during the festive season, so be prepared for a long walk from the parking lot to the location.
Reserve a room in The Atlantis for that weekend to obtain not only a spectacular view but also a pleasant atmosphere. This adds an intimate touch for couples or families.
Arrive as early as 5 PM to get a good place in one of the free fireworks viewing sites.
Keep a detailed note about all transport routes to and from the car park before you set out for the day.
Be prepared to get held back in traffic when you return and have a second plan in case it gets too late.

Dubai Travel Tips

New Year's Eve Parties in Dubai

The Penthouse

Dubai's most happening rooftop lounge has a rocking New Year's Eve Party. Located on the 16th floor at the Palm Jumeirah Hotel, this destination offers you delicious food, unmatched entertainment and the view of a fireworks display!

Location: No 1 Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates | Find on map

Lotus Mega Yacht

Party on the sea on this luxurious yacht and ring in the New Year in a unique way. It has multiple entertainment decks and an onboard cinema for visitors. Gaze at the gorgeous Dubai skyline as you welcome the New Year here.

Location: Berth L (T Head Marina Mall below Pier 7, Outside Dubai - Dubai Marina), Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Find on Maps

Beach Party at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Juemirah Zabeel Saray hosts an extravagant beachside party for New Year's Eve in Dubai at the popular Plaj restaurant. The MusicHall offers a one-of-a-kind club-theatre experience.

Location: Crescent Rd - The Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates | Find on map

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa

Kick-off a family-friendly New Year's Eve celebration at the signature Al Hadheerah restaurant. Enjoy a gourmet dinner, live bands, dancers, an international DJ, and wonderful fireworks at midnight.

Location: Al Qudra Road, Opposite Endurance City - Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates | Find on map

QD's at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club

The party at QD's guarantees endless delicious food, live entertainment and signature sets from a terrific DJ. You'll have prime views of the waters of Dubai Creek and the city skyline in the distance.

Location: Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club - Dubai Creek Club St - Dubai - United Arab Emirates | Find on map

Family Fun at Emirates Golf Club's Gala

Set at the Lawn, this party offers spectacular views of the Dubai Marina skyline. There's plenty of music and the opportunity to check out the fireworks show light up the night sky.

Location: 17/2, Al Naseem street Emirates Golf Club, Al Thanyah 3, Hadaeq Mohammed Bin Rashid, Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates | Find on map

Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrating New Year's Eve in Dubai

What are the best things to do in Dubai on New Year’s Eve?

The best things to do in Dubai on New Year’s Eve include watching the spectacular fireworks display, attending one of the many parties across the city, going on a desert safari, and enjoying a gala dinner.

How can I celebrate New Year in Dubai?

People go out for picnics, take dinner cruises, attend new year’s eve parties, or watch the fireworks display during the New Year in Dubai.

Where should we spend New Year in Dubai?

The best, albeit expensive, option would be to reserve a hotel room that allows you to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks display. Alternatively, you can go out for dinner to one of the many Dubai restaurants or Dhow cruises.

What can I do on New Year's Eve in Dubai?

You can watch the Burj Khalifa fireworks display, enjoy a luxury cruise with dinner, go to a live concert, or have a day out on the beach on New Year’s Eve in Dubai.

Does Dubai celebrate New Year?

Yes, Dubai does celebrate New Year.

How can I get around Dubai during New Year’s Eve?

Metro, bus, and tram services run all across the city during New Year’s Eve in Dubai.

Where are the best parties in Dubai on New Year’s Eve?

The best parties on New Year’s Eve in Dubai include the Dubai Opera Shows, and the QE2’s Gala Dinner.

What are the best places to see Dubai fireworks on New Year's Eve?

Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, Burj Al Arab. Global Village are some of the best places to get a dazzling view of the fireworks on New Year's Eve in Dubai.

What are the family-friendly parties in Dubai on New Year's Eve?

The Global Village, La Mer are some of the options to spend a family-friendly New Year's Eve in Dubai.

What can I do in Dubai for New Year's Eve?

You can attend parties, watch the fireworks, go on a dinner cruise or a night safari in Dubai for New Year's Eve.

What are the best places to eat in Dubai for New Year's Eve?

Bubbalicious Brunch, Maya Mexican Kitchen + Bar are good options for brunch. Try out Cabana and Thiptara for a delicious dinner in Dubai for New Year's Eve.