Dazzling Dubai is the place to add some festive sparkle to your life and bring in the New Year in a blaze of glory during an amazing fireworks extravaganza like no other.

This awe-inspiring destination is renowned for its spectacular displays, including the epic annual event at the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, which attracts visitors from around the globe. Last year this amazing display featured more than 15,600 pyrotechnic elements, 2,800 different firing directions and took 671 days to plan. It's no surprise this glorious getaway holds several Guinness World Records for its stunning fireworks displays. The Burj Khalifa show is not the only breathtaking spectacle in the city, with a host of huge events in various other locations to take your breath away. Here’s our pick of some of the best New Year’s Eve firework displays and the best places to watch the sky burst into a canvas of colour at the stroke of midnight.

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Burj Khalifa

Mentioned above, the New Year’s Eve firework display at this towering skyscraper in Downtown Dubai is recognised as one of the best in the world. The whole building transforms into a massive LED screen, with choreographed lasers, lights and fireworks creating a mesmerising show for awestruck audiences. The event is combined with a light, music and water show at The Dubai Fountain. Due to the size of the display, you’re spoilt for choice by the number of vantage points to marvel at the amazing spectacle. Booking into one of Downtown Dubai’s fine dining restaurants is a good idea, or you might be lucky enough to get a table at a rooftop venue. Depending on where you’re staying, you might also be able to watch the festivities from the comfort of your hotel balcony, or splash out on a cruise aboard a luxury yacht to enjoy the extravaganza from the water.

Atlantis, The Palm

This famous hotel on the Palm Jumeirah Island presents a fantastic pyrotechnics display to remember. Make a booking at one of the resort’s restaurants or lounges for a phenomenal vantage point. Better still, get tickets to Atlantis, The Palm’s Under The Stars Gala Dinner, with music legend Lionel Richie taking centre stage to perform. You’ll also enjoy an extravagant buffet, free-flowing champagne and, of course, the show-stopping fireworks display. Tickets to the New Year’s Eve events at Atlantis, The Palm are in big demand, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out. You can also watch the pyrotechnics action for free in various areas of the nearby 11km Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk. Alternatively, you could again take to the waters of the Arabian Gulf, with Xclusive, Lotus Mega Yacht and Seven Yachts among the leading operators at your service.

Al Seef

The impressive display in Dubai’s heritage district of Al Seef, at Dubai Creek, is staged as part of the amazing Al Seef festival. The district transforms into a giant party, with a carnival, outdoor cinema, a waterfront market and plenty of live music. You can enjoy the fireworks from either side of Dubai Creek, in Deira or Bur Dubai. Watch the colourful spectacles for free on the bustling waterfront promenade or book a table at one of the gourmet dining venues in Al Seef. With traditional dhow boats and historic architecture as a backdrop, this really is a stunning spot to see in the New Year. You could even take to Dubai Creek, to enjoy the celebrations aboard an Abra boat, water taxi or dhow.

The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR)

Prepare to be wowed by the incredible display at The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR), a luxury waterfront resort where the fireworks launch into the sky above the sea, with superb panoramic views from the sand and the boulevard. Book a front row seat at one of the superb shoreside restaurants, or make yourself comfortable on the beach itself. Whatever vantage point you choose, you will also be able to enjoy the dazzling display on Bluewaters Island, home to the gigantic Ain Dubai wheel. For three minutes from midnight on December 31, the sky above the vibrant lifestyle destination will be lit up providing an extra treat for visitors already spellbound by the explosion of colour above The Beach.

Best Of The Rest

For a New Year’s Eve celebration with an international feel, head to Global Village. The attraction’s festivities involve entertainment, performances, dance shows, and multiple fireworks displays throughout the night marking the start of the new year in various time zones around the world. Dubai Festival City is another venue helping to add some sparkle to the emirate’s New Year’s Eve party. This is the place to enjoy lively shows, performances, music, dancing and much more in between the firework thrills. If you’re struggling to decide which event is for you, why not find a spot where you can enjoy multiple shows. There are several sandy expanses in Dubai for viewing the city’s fireworks parties, including private beaches at many of the 5-star hotels. Fantastic beaches for watching the Burj Al Arab pyrotechnics, as well as catching other displays for free, include Al Sufouh Beach and Kite Beach. Make sure you arrive early, however, as both spots get crowded quickly.

“You can’t beat Dubai for a New Year’s Eve fireworks party.

“When the clock strikes midnight on December 31, the city’s sky erupts in a kaleidoscope of dazzling colour, with pyrotechnics, light displays and a symphony of sound that will take your breath away.

“Each year the displays get bigger and better, attracting huge crowds to enjoy an experience not to be missed.

“Live music, shows and performances also form part of the celebrations, with music icon Lionel Richie the star of the show at the glittering New Year’s Eve party at Atlantis, The Palm.

“If you’re not lucky enough to get front row tickets to watch one of the displays, you don’t have to miss out. There are still a whole host of great vantage points around Dubai where you can enjoy the sensational fireworks displays and make memories to last a lifetime.”

Atlantis, The Palm

Discover endless fun and excitement at this 5-star ocean-inspired wonderland. Prepare to be left in awe by the opulent accommodation, enticing dining destinations and endless leisure opportunities. Take the plunge at Aquaventure Waterpark, the world's largest waterpark boasting 105 record-breaking slides, be left spellbound by the spectacular sea life at The Lost Chambers Aquarium, and enjoy indulgent pampering sessions at AWAKEN Spa. Other treats include clubs for kids and teens, swimming pools, a bowling alley, tennis courts and a fitness centre.

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The Westin Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

Enjoy the delights of Dubai beach life with a stay at this impeccable 5-star sanctuary. You’ll stay in sumptuous accommodation, discover world-class culinary delights in exceptional restaurants and have the chance to revive your senses in the sublime spa. The resort also features an impressive waterpark, lagoon-style swimming pool and modern fitness facilities. The private beach is ideal for relaxing hours or water sports activities such as paddle boarding and kayaking, while little ones can join in the fun at the children’s club located at the neighbouring sister property.

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Dukes The Palm, A Royal Hideaway Hotel

Combine British charm with cosmopolitan luxury and you have an unforgettable holiday at this lavish 5-star haven on the golden shores of Dubai. Ultra-plush living spaces ensure comfort and relaxation, while you’ll enjoy delectable cuisine in elegant dining venues. Laid-back moments can also be enjoyed reclined atop the soft sand on the private beach, or enjoying the view from beside the indoor pool, located on the hotel’s 14th floor. Other features include a kids club, fitness centre and lazy river.

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W Dubai - Mina Seyahi

Seek out a world beyond luxury at this stylish 5-star oasis, located in a superb spot close to Dubai Marina. An ultra-modern adult-only (16+) playground, it’s a place where you’ll be able to let your hair down and enjoy every innovative feature on offer, from chic rooms and suites, to sleek dining destinations. The stunning WET Deck is the place to spend your days soaking up the sun beside the infinity pool, while a gym, spa, waterpark and private beach access are other features sure to appeal.

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