For Dubai's New Year's Eve fireworks, the first decision is how you want to watch: from an apartment with a view of Burj Khalifa, from a public spot or at a ticketed venue. Official plans for 2026/27 have not been announced yet, so choose a base you can use in any case and check availability for 31 December.
This guide is editorial. We looked for an official announcement of the 2026/27 celebrations on 7 October 2026 and did not find one, so we do not give times, locations or prices for this year. What follows is based on what was reported for the previous edition and on how to choose an apartment.
What was planned last year
For New Year's Eve 2025/26, Gulf News reported that Emaar planned an eight-day programme in Downtown Dubai from 31 December to 7 January, centred on Burj Khalifa and Burj Park, and that authorities planned around 48 fireworks displays at 40 locations across the emirate, including Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Creek Harbour, Bluewaters, Burj Al Arab, Expo City Dubai and Atlantis The Palm. Sources: Gulf News, fireworks location map and Emaar eight-day programme. The plans for this year may differ, so wait for the official announcement, usually closer to December.
Three ways to watch
From an apartment with a view
You watch from inside, with your own kitchen and no queue. Confirm the view in the listing description and, if it matters, ask us which way the balcony faces. See our Downtown stays with Burj Khalifa views.
From a public spot
Public viewing areas are free but crowded, and access arrangements are set by the authorities each year. Check the official guidance before you plan the evening, and decide how you will get back to your apartment.
At a ticketed event
Hotels and venues sell New Year's Eve packages. Terms and prices are set by each venue.
Which area to choose
- Downtown Dubai and Business Bay: the closest to Burj Khalifa and the usual choice for the main show.
- Palm Jumeirah: a resort setting, with its own displays reported last year. Compare the two areas in Palm Jumeirah vs Downtown Dubai.
- Dubai Marina and JBR: beachfront and lively. See the Dubai Marina guide.
Check availability
Enter 31 December on our Dubai apartments page to see the real availability and price for your dates. For the other areas, read the best areas for a short-term rental. If you are visiting in winter, see winter sun in Dubai.
Written on 7 October 2026. Sources: Gulf News reports on the 2025/26 celebrations. No official 2026/27 programme had been published when we checked.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Dubai New Year's Eve 2026/27 plans?
We found no official announcement for the 2026/27 celebrations on 7 October 2026. For the previous year, press reports said Emaar planned an eight-day programme in Downtown Dubai from 31 December to 7 January and Dubai had around 48 fireworks displays at 40 locations. Check the official announcements in December.
Where can I watch Dubai's New Year's Eve fireworks?
Last year the displays included Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Creek Harbour, Bluewaters, Burj Al Arab, Expo City Dubai and Atlantis The Palm, according to press reports. The 2026/27 locations are not announced yet.
Is it better to rent an apartment with a Burj Khalifa view?
It depends on how you want to spend the night. An apartment with a view lets you watch from inside without queues, but you must confirm the view and the balcony direction in the listing. Ask us before you book if the view matters.
How do I find an apartment in Dubai for New Year's Eve?
Enter 31 December on our Dubai apartments page: the availability and price shown for your dates are the real ones. New Year's Eve is a busy date, so check early.