New Year’s Eve in UAE: Al Wathba to Light Up the Skies with a 62-Minute Fireworks Spectacle

Abu Dhabi: Al Wathba is gearing up to host one of the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations in the UAE and the wider region, as the Sheikh Zayed Festival finalises preparations for a record-breaking night of fireworks, drone shows and cultural showcases.

Record-Breaking Fireworks Show-

This year’s festival promises an unprecedented visual spectacle, with plans to set five new Guinness World Records. The fireworks will roll out in five timed segments beginning at 8:00 p.m. and culminating in a 62-minute main display at midnight, illuminating the skies over Al Wathba in a breathtaking finale. Using advanced launch systems and visual synchronisation technologies, the fireworks will cover a vast area of the night sky, ensuring a standout experience for the huge crowds expected to attend.

6,500 Drones in a Single Flight-

One of the festival’s major highlights is a groundbreaking 6,500-drone show, set to run for 20 minutes. The drones will form nine large-scale artistic formations, many showcased for the first time globally. Integrated with the digital countdown and the fireworks display, the coordinated spectacle will demonstrate the festival’s growing emphasis on innovation and cutting-edge entertainment technology.

A Global Celebration of Culture-

The Sheikh Zayed Festival continues to cement its reputation as a global cultural platform. This year’s New Year’s Eve programme will feature contributions from:

• Government entities presenting Emirati culture and heritage

• Technology sponsors powering lighting, lasers, and drone systems

• International troupes providing artistic and cultural performances

Traditional Emirati shows such as Al Ayala, Al Razfa and Al Nadba will be performed by hundreds of artists, while country pavilions will host carnival-style entertainment and musical shows. The Children’s Theatre and the new Amusement Park City, opened in December 2025, will offer special programmes for younger visitors.

Operational and Safety Measures-

To manage the influx of visitors, the organising committee has announced robust operational plans, including:

• Expanded entry and exit gates

• Widened pedestrian walkways

• Deployment of specialised field teams

• Enhanced security, safety and medical services

Gates will close automatically once full capacity is reached, and the public is advised to follow official festival channels and book tickets in advance.

Technology Meets Tradition-

This year’s preparations highlight the Sheikh Zayed Festival’s vision of blending high-tech innovation with authentic Emirati heritage, creating one of the most spectacular celebratory atmospheres in the region. With fireworks, drones, cultural shows and immersive family entertainment, visitors can expect an extraordinary welcome to New Year 2026 in Al Wathba.