What’s the best way to ring in 2023 in Dubai? Looking for alternatives to streaming the ball drop in New York City’s Times Square on New Year’s Eve?
From beach picnics to desert safaris and fireworks displays to opera dinners–there’s something for locals, expats, and visitors alike leading up to midnight on January 1.
Keep reading to discover some of the best locations and activities for ushering in the new year.
Burj Khalifa fireworks display
This fireworks display is one of the world’s most popular New Year’s Eve celebrations, according to PlatinumList.net. There’s more! You can also enjoy a countdown to the new year through a laser light show.
If you intend to watch the Burj Khalifa display, you have several locations to enjoy the memorable experience, including:
- Burj Park
- Dubai Mall
- Souk Al Bahar
- Dubai Canal
Keep in mind that these popular locations fill up quickly, so it’s critical to arrive by at least 10 p.m.
You can also watch fireworks from other locations, including area hotels and fine dining restaurants with New Year’s Eve parties. On a tight budget? Several restaurants at The Dubai Mall, like KFC, give you a close view of the fireworks.
Jumeirah Beach
Enjoy sand and surf at Jumeirah Beach, one of Dubai’s most popular options.
Jumeirah.com suggests some of these options live the mantra “life’s a beach” on the last day of the year:
Live music
Enjoy festive music and delicious dishes. Add panoramic cityscape views and fireworks displays to make your celebration even more spectacular.
Evening buffets
This option can keep your party happy during party time. Regardless of where you book, do it early to get a reservation. Some regional cuisines available include:
- Middle East
- Mediterranean
- Asian
- European
- North American
Besides delicious food, you can also enjoy refreshing beverages. Go with pubs over restaurants for a drink-focused experience.
Research what time the NYE festivities will last and the minimum age of children.
Desert safari
PlatinumList.net suggests starting the new year by exploring the desert-like ancient bedouins. The desert safari tour features a 4×4 SUV ride across the desert’s sand and dunes. Enjoy activities like:
- Camel rides
- Traditional dances
- Henna tattoos
A desert safari helps escape urban life to enjoy a rural environment different from mountains and countryside.
The safari can also include features like an Arabian feast with delicacies, including grilled meat and hummus (dip, spread, or dish).
Town Square Dubai
Bayut.com shares that Town Square Dubai offers NYE perks like the following:
- Water park
- Live performance
- Firework show.
Your family’s new year in Dubai can also include kid-friendly activities including a magic show and carnival games.
Centaurus Charter’s luxury yachts
ExpatWoman.com suggests this option to take Prince’s suggestion to “party like it’s 1999”–at sea! You can enjoy lots of amenities like:
- Flybridge
- Galley
- Staterooms
- Suites
- Saloon
You also get an awesome view of Dubai and the New Year’s fireworks.
Check for a New Year’s Eve special offer. You can live like a king or queen with complimentary champagne and a fruit basket or cheese box.
Wrap-Up
You have several options to enjoy New Year’s Eve in Dubai. Whether you’re with your family, and friends, or partying solo, your choices can include fireworks, the desert, or a yacht.
NYE in Dubai is an ideal time to reflect on the past year, including all your most memorable (and forgettable) experiences. It’s also an opportunity to live in the moment and focus on the sands of time. Happy new year!
Featured image courtesy of Flickr/Armin Rodler
