Here is how to do New Year’s in Dubai

NYE is right around the corner. And I see you, printing out your Pinterest vision board on the office printer and buying an indecent amount of grapes to eat under a table. But as iconic as rituals are, nothing quite hits like a classic New Year’s Eve night out. And what does that night look like? Entirely up to you. Whether you’re in the mood for glam dining, disco dancing, or singing along to chart-topping hits, here’s your ultimate list of how (and where) to ring in 2026.

Empress MiMi’s Masquerade at MiMi Mei Fair

If your idea of the perfect airplane movie is Crazy Rich Asians, this one is for you. At Downtown Dubai’s MiMi Mei Fair, step back in time as you’re invited to Empress MiMi’s Masquerade. Situated at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, this New Year’s Eve affair promises to take you thousands of miles away into Mainland China through a four-course dinner menu fit for an emperor. With the night’s soundtrack courtesy of the in-house DJ at Moon Bar, and, of course, the Dubai fireworks, you’ve got yourself a New Year’s Eve fit for the Crazy Rich Asians sequel.

For details, call 04 570 0825 or visit their Instagram @mimimeifair.ae

Fireworks & live music at FIVE LUXE JBR

Go big, or go home. That’s the motto at FIVE, and their blockbuster NYE celebration definitely got the memo. Featuring Grammy-winning DJ Roger Sanchez and Chico Castillo of the Gipsy Kings, this party is set to define your nights out in 2026. Expect top-tier beats, live cooking stations, premium drinks, spectacular views, and fireworks, all five (gettit?) as the clock strikes midnight.

The Cullinan’s New Year’s Eve celebration

As you step onto The Cullinan’s floor on New Year’s Eve, a flute of welcome champagne in hand and a live saxophonist setting the mood in the crisp night air, it’s hard to imagine a better way to ring in the new year. Guests can indulge in a specially curated set menu, paired with à la carte beverages, plus a complimentary champagne toast when the clock strikes midnight.

The evening unfolds with live performances by singer Ella L alongside music from resident DJ Idriss. And while the menu and entertainment alone feels indulgent, the real luxury lies in the seamless valet service by the restaurant, so you won’t spend the first moments of 2026 worrying about a parking ticket.

For reservations, call+971 4 570 4551 or email [email protected]

New Year’s Eve Gala at Cetara

Four words: seafood-forward sharing menu. Need we say more? But with Cetara’s NYE gala, there’s so much more. You’re invited to a Great Gatsby–style affair with the Dubai skyline as your backdrop. Overdressed and a bit much is not a flaw, it’s a requirement. And honestly, where else would you rather be than under the Burj Khalifa fireworks

Boogie Into 2026 at Al Habtoor Polo Resort

If you’ve got parents or grandparents who still rave about diners, skate rinks, and disco parties, make sure you’re bringing them to Al Habtoor’s disco-themed NYE party. The night kicks off with a welcome reception before flowing into buffet dining and a glittering countdown on the Polo Terrace. It’s a popular spot, so we’d recommend pre-booking.

For bookings, call +971 56 812 1295 or email [email protected]

Beachfront Glam at Nammos Dubai with MALUMA

How many NYE parties can you go to where you might run into a world-famous singer-rapper like MALUMA? Not many, but definitely this one. MALUMA is set to headline the night as the classic Greek hotspot turns into a symposium fit for Dionysus himself. Expect back-to-back aperitivos among other Nammos favourites, followed by a high-energy countdown and a late-night DJ set to carry you into the new year on the right beat.

 Call +971 58 121 0000 or  email: [email protected] for book. 

NYE with Lost Frequencies at Koko Bay

You know a party is good when the shoes come off, and at Koko Bay’s NYE bash, no shoes is kind of the theme. Set right on the beachfront, with perfect fireworks views and a soundtrack by Lost Frequencies, it’s the ideal place to ring in the new year at whatever energy level you’re feeling. Even better? With redeemable table options, you don’t have to wait for everyone in the group chat to reply before booking.

For reservations, Call +971 4 572 3444 or email at [email protected] 

Sky-High Fireworks at Sky Views Observatory

Fancy watching the fireworks from the sky? Sky Views Observatory offers uninterrupted views of the Burj Khalifa fireworks: no buildings, traffic, or banners in sight. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can upgrade to an Edge Walk experience, 219.5 meters above the city. For the rest of us, there’s a gourmet dinner, free-flowing beverages, and a keepsake souvenir to remember the night.

For reservations and package details, visit: www.skyviewsdubai.com/nye-in-the-sky

Alicia Keys Live at Saadiyat Nights

Saadiyat Island is making sure it rings in 2026 the right way, and it starts with the soulful sound of Alicia Keys. The GRAMMY-winning icon returns to Abu Dhabi following her sold-out 2024 show, delivering her most celebrated hits in an open-air concert setting. The “If I Ain’t Got You” star kicks off what will be a major performance lineup for 2026 at the Island, including names like Lewis Capaldi and Mariah Carey.

Tickets for Saadiyat Nights 2025-2026 are now available at Ticketmaster.ae

Rather stay in for the big night? Here is how to make a vision board that actually manifests your dream life.