UAE residents and visitors welcomed the New Year 2025 with spectacular fireworks displays and lively celebrations across the nation. From Dubai's iconic Burj Khalifa to the Sheikh Zayed Festival, the sky was adorned with colorful explosions as people ushered in the new year with joy and anticipation.
The most famous fireworks display at the Burj Khalifa drew crowds from all walks of life, with families, friends, and tourists converging to experience the magic of the night. "There’s something truly magical about being here. We’ve been celebrating New Year’s Eve at the Burj for many years, and every time, it feels like more than just a building; it’s an emotion. We eagerly look forward to the bliss of 2025,” said Gerard Ruth, a longtime resident.
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) had anticipated the massive turnout, implementing extensive road closures and transportation measures to facilitate the festivities. Roads around the Burj Khalifa area, including Al Mustaqbal and Financial Center streets, were closed to manage traffic. Alternative routes were suggested, including Al Wasl and Al Khail Roads.
For many visitors, the New Year celebration was not just about the fireworks; it was also about reunions and shared experiences. Siblings Juliana and Christopher Esperas flew from the Philippines to witness their first fireworks at the Burj. Their mother, Myla, expressed her joy: "This has been a thrilling experience.”
Meanwhile, the atmosphere was electric at the Global Village, which hosted multiple fireworks shows corresponding to different global time zones. The park showcased seven firework displays and exciting drone shows, culminating with the midnight celebration. The vibrant festivities also featured live entertainment, which thrilled both adults and children alike.
Other notable locations across the UAE included the Sheikh Zayed Festival, which delighted spectators with its 53-minute nonstop fireworks display, affirming its reputation as one of the country's premier celebration spots. Ras Al Khaimah took it up a notch by employing drones to create stunning light shows, attempting to break Guinness World Records with their elaborate display.
New parents Rahul Rutanen-Whaley and Aya Ahmed Sakoury preferred to celebrate at home, gathering with family and friends to welcome 2025. They shared, "We hope for peace, prosperity, safety, and good health for everyone around the world. It’s a year of new adventures, cherished memories, and gratitude for the blessings in our lives.”
Induja Binu reunited with her long-time friend Jishma Renjith, who flew to Dubai unexpectedly, highlighting the personal connections and renewed friendships as people celebrated the approaching new year.
Fireworks events were carefully coordinated throughout the Emirates, with security personnel and emergency teams on standby to manage crowds and guarantee safety. The Dubai Police deployed over 8,500 officers to oversee public safety.
This year, the Second of January marked the start of the festive month of shopping and entertainment, with the Dubai Festival City Mall hosting daily fireworks leading up to the New Year’s Eve gala.
With the excitement continuing well past midnight, the community spirit remained strong. Many groups of people had set up camps along the shores of Al Majaz Corniche, cheering together as confetti and balloons filled the air.
The emotional connection shared by residents celebrating across various venues encapsulated the essence of New Year’s Eve - hope for the year to come. Excited children, upbeat music, and tantalizing food aromas hung thick as families created lasting memories, coupling joy with reflection.
For those who may have missed the celebrations or wished to relive them, the fireworks displays were streamed live on various platforms, including local news websites and YouTube channels, ensuring everyone could feel part of the revelry.
Despite the massive festivities, some residents opted for quieter celebrations, taking advantage of the cool desert air to welcome 2025 away from the busy crowds. Meanwhile, restaurants near the Burj were fully booked, with many families splurging on meals to enjoy the iconic views as they rang in the New Year.
UAE's New Year celebrations combined multicultural camaraderie with traditional firework shows, setting the stage for another vibrant year.