How to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi in 2026
New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi is quieter than Dubai’s but just as spectacular, with some of the UAE’s longest fireworks shows, record-breaking drone displays and elegant hotel galas from Yas Island to Saadiyat. This guide covers where to watch the fireworks, what is already confirmed for 31 December 2026 and how to plan your night.
Sheikh Zayed Festival, Al Wathba: the biggest show
The Sheikh Zayed Festival at Al Wathba is where Abu Dhabi puts on its biggest New Year’s Eve show. The 2026 to 2027 season runs from 30 October 2026 to 14 March 2027, and New Year’s Eve fireworks are confirmed as part of the programme. Last year the night ended with a fireworks display lasting more than an hour from midnight, alongside a drone show with thousands of drones. Entry to the festival is ticketed but inexpensive, and the full New Year’s Eve programme is usually announced in December, so check the festival’s official website before you go. Arrive early: the roads to Al Wathba get very busy in the evening.
Where to watch the fireworks in Abu Dhabi
Fireworks are usually held at several free public locations across the emirate. Last year they included a ten-minute midnight show along the Corniche, two shows at Yas Bay Waterfront (one at 9pm for families and one at midnight), several short displays around Saadiyat Island, and midnight shows at Hudayriyat Island and Al Maryah Island. In Al Ain, fireworks lit up the sky above Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, and there were smaller shows in Al Dhafra. The 2026 locations and times have not been announced yet; we will update this guide when they are.
Gala dinners and parties
Abu Dhabi’s New Year’s Eve gala dinners are mostly held in its big resorts on Yas Island, Saadiyat and along the Corniche, often with live music and a view of the nearest fireworks. The first confirmed event for 2026 is the New Year’s Eve Gala at Yas Links, a buffet with live cooking stations, live music and a DJ on the lawn or the Sunset Terrace. Most other hotels release their packages in November and December, and the best tables go quickly.
New Year’s Eve in Abu Dhabi with family
Abu Dhabi is a good choice for families. The early 9pm show at Yas Bay last year let younger children see fireworks before bedtime, and the Sheikh Zayed Festival combines heritage pavilions, food stalls and rides with its fireworks. Several hotel galas also offer reduced prices for children, so check the age policy when you book.
Getting there and getting around
Abu Dhabi is about 150 km from Dubai, roughly an hour and a half by car without traffic, so many Dubai residents book a hotel and make a night of it. Abu Dhabi Police put a traffic plan in place for New Year’s Eve, and roads near the main fireworks sites close or slow down in the evening. Last year, Mawaqif public parking and Darb toll gates were free on New Year’s Day; the 2027 arrangements are usually confirmed in late December. If you are driving back to Dubai after midnight, plan a designated driver: the UAE has zero tolerance for drink driving.
Staying in Dubai? See our guide to New Year’s Eve in Dubai for every party and gala dinner, and our Abu Dhabi guide for things to do over the long weekend.