The UAE is preparing for one of the biggest New Year celebrations in the world, as Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi hosts the grand UAE New Year Celebration 2026. This year’s event is expected to break multiple world records, making it one of the most anticipated New Year programs in the region. From a 62-minute fireworks display to the world’s largest drone show, the festival promises an unforgettable night for residents, tourists, and families.
The celebration will take place at the iconic Sheikh Zayed Festival venue in Al Wathba, known for its strong connection to Emirati culture, heritage, and mega-scale entertainment events.
A Record-Breaking New Year Event in UAE
Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi is set to make history once again with a 62-minute continuous fireworks show, one of the longest in the world. Along with this massive display, the festival will feature the world’s largest drone show, using 6,500 drones to create stunning visuals in the night sky. This extraordinary combination of fireworks and drones will put UAE on the global stage for New Year celebrations.
Highlights of the Al Wathba New Year Celebration 2026
- 62-minute non-stop fireworks show
- World’s largest drone show with 6,500 drones
- 20-minute special drone performance
- Cultural and heritage programs
- Shows from participating countries
- Performances by official partners and sponsors
- Family-friendly attractions, food stalls, and live entertainment
UAE has always been known for hosting grand New Year celebrations, but the Al Wathba 2026 NYE event is expected to set a new world record, making it a must-visit destination on December 31.
Five-Stage Event Schedule – Programs Start at 8 PM
The Sheikh Zayed Festival has planned a five-stage event schedule, offering continuous entertainment throughout the evening. Programs will begin from 8 PM onwards, including live music, cultural performances, heritage displays, and international showcases.
Read Now: NYE2026 at RAK
As the night progresses, visitors can enjoy:
- Traditional Emirati acts
- Musical and cultural performances from participating countries
- Light and laser shows
- Parade-style entertainment
- Drone preview displays
Finally, just before midnight, the countdown will begin, followed by the main fireworks show and drone performance at 12 AM.
Al Wathba NYE 2026 Fireworks Timing
The Al Wathba fireworks timing for New Year’s Eve 2026 will be at midnight (12:00 AM), synchronized with a special countdown.
The full 62-minute fireworks display will light up the sky immediately after the countdown, combined with the breathtaking 20-minute drone show.
Evening programs and festival events will begin from early evening and continue until late night.
Entry Fee for Al Wathba Fireworks 2026
The event is designed to be accessible for everyone, with a very affordable entry fee:
- Entry Ticket Price: AED 10 per person
- Infants: Free entry
This makes it one of the most budget-friendly major New Year celebrations in the UAE.
How to Book Tickets for Al Wathba New Year Celebration 2026
Visitors can easily book the tickets through:
1. Official Website
Tickets can be purchased online through the Sheikh Zayed Festival’s official ticket portal:
👉 https://szf-booktickets.powerappsportals.com/
2. On-Site Ticket Counters
Tickets will also be available at the festival counters directly at Al Wathba.
Early booking is recommended as New Year’s Eve at Al Wathba attracts thousands of visitors every year.
How to Reach Al Wathba New Year Venue
The New Year celebration will take place at:
📍 Sheikh Zayed Festival
Al Wathba – Camel Race South – Abu Dhabi
Google Map Location:
👉 https://maps.app.goo.gl/qHkk4veKqLfkQj4X9
The area is easily reachable from Abu Dhabi city and Dubai via major highways. Ample parking space and organized entry points are available for smooth access.
Cultural & Heritage Programs at Al Wathba
The Sheikh Zayed Festival is famous for promoting UAE culture and traditions. During the New Year 2026 celebration, visitors can enjoy:
- Emirati heritage villages
- Folk dance performances
- Cultural shows from multiple countries
- National exhibits
- Food markets and traditional handicrafts
These programs highlight the UAE’s diversity and warm hospitality and add a unique cultural touch to the New Year celebration.
Participating Countries and Sponsors
Several international countries participate every year at the Sheikh Zayed Festival, bringing cultural performances, food stalls, and themed shows.
Major sponsors and partners will also contribute to fireworks, drone shows, and stage programs.
This level of collaboration makes Al Wathba one of the leading New Year festival destinations in the world.
The UAE’s biggest New Year Celebration 2026 at Al Wathba is expected to be a spectacular event filled with record-breaking performances, cultural shows, and world-class entertainment. With a 62-minute fireworks display, 6,500 drones, and a 20-minute drone show, the event will set a new world record and attract visitors from across the UAE and around the globe.
If you’re planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve in the UAE, Al Wathba is the top destination for NYE 2026.
