Ras Al Khaimah Welcomes 2026 With Record-Breaking Phoenix Drone Spectacle

Ras Al Khaimah welcomed the start of 2026 with a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration, setting a new Guinness World Records title for the largest aerial display of a phoenix formed by multirotor drones. The 15-minute show combined cutting-edge drone technology with fireworks, drawing thousands of residents and visitors to the emirate’s coastline.

The centrepiece of the evening was a massive drone performance featuring 2,300 drones that transformed the night sky into dynamic, animated formations above the waterfront. The highlight was a giant phoenix a mythical symbol of renewal and rebirth  brought to life through precise choreography and lighting.

Of the 2,300 drones used, 1,000 were pyro drones that illuminated the phoenix’s wings, creating a dramatic flame-like effect as the figure appeared to soar across the sky. The display marked a historic moment for the emirate, securing another Guinness World Records achievement.

The drone sequence also included a second formation titled The Welcome, depicting a human figure rising from the sea with open arms. The image symbolised Ras Al Khaimah’s spirit of hospitality, openness, and connection with visitors from around the world.

As midnight approached, the drone performance transitioned seamlessly into a large-scale fireworks countdown. A six-kilometre-long fireworks display stretched along the coastline from Marjan Island to Al Hamra, with hundreds of fireworks launched in synchronised waves to mark the arrival of 2026.

Thousands gathered at beachfront resorts, public viewing areas, and the New Year’s Eve Festival to witness the celebrations. The festivities also included live stage performances and entertainment throughout the night. Earlier in the evening, families enjoyed an additional fireworks display at Corniche Al Qawasim.

Phillipa Harrison, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said the event was designed to unite the community while celebrating the emirate’s achievements.

“New Year’s Eve in Ras Al Khaimah is about bringing people together. With this year’s show, we wanted to create a celebration that could be shared by our entire community and everyone visiting Ras Al Khaimah at this special time,” she said. “While achieving a new Guinness World Records title is great, what truly matters are the memories created for those who celebrated with us.”

She added that the event also offered an opportunity to reflect on the emirate’s progress and welcome the year ahead with optimism and ambition.

Ras Al Khaimah has built a strong reputation for record-breaking New Year’s Eve celebrations. Over the past seven years, the emirate has secured a total of 13 Guinness World Records titles. During its New Year’s Eve 2025 celebrations, it added two more records, including the largest aerial display of a tree formed by drones and the largest aerial image of a seashell created using drones.