New Year’s Eve in the UAE: Where to celebrate

Ring in the New Year in style with an array of exciting celebrations across the UAE

Hilton Al Seef Hotels

Embark on a dazzling New Year’s Eve with Skafos’ exclusive Creekside Dinner, featuring front-row views of breathtaking fireworks, live cooking stations, a sprawling buffet, and a live DJ for an epic celebration. The festivities extend late into the night, offering thoughtfully curated packages for a personalised experience. Alternatively, countdown to a spectacular New Year’s Eve at SOL Sky Bar with a mesmerising 180-degree view of the Creek and Burj Khalifa fireworks, live cooking stations, a sumptuous buffet, and a vibrant dance floor to celebrate the night away.

Skafos: From 7pm. AED850 including house beverages. AED650 including soft beverages. SOL Sky Bar: From 7pm. AED999 including house beverages. AED799 including soft beverages. Contact +97158 200 5850.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Immerse yourself in a captivating ambience within the heart of Dubai as the enchanting outdoor venue undergoes a magical transformation, mirroring the iconic streets of New York with breathtaking decor and towering skyscrapers. As the night unfolds, world-renowned pop sensation, Lexie Band, sets the stage for the evening, complemented by a dynamic array of live acts including a mesmerising entrance show, dance performances, and the skilful beats of a renowned DJ. Indulge your palate in a culinary journey featuring a delectable buffet spread, showcasing a fusion of your favourite cuisines, elegantly presented at your table. As midnight approaches, behold the vibrant Dubai skyline adorned with a spectacular fireworks display, creating a memorable New Year’s Eve tradition, and extend the festivities into the early hours with an unforgettable after-party at the Lagoon pool.

AED1,900 per person inclusive of soft beverages. AED 2,900 per person inclusive of house beverages, sparkling grapes and a glass of bubbly during countdown. AED1,300 per child (6-11 years old). Call +9714 818 2222 or email dxbpd_festivereservation@waldorfastoria.com.

Dinner By Heston Blumenthal 

Celebrate the New Year with your loved ones at the renowned one Michelin-starred restaurant, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. A first in the region, Dinner offers a unique dining experience and narrative in a relaxed and informal setting, presenting a menu inspired by British tastes and flavours dating back to the 13th century, from the farmers’ table to the royal courts of England. Indulge in a lavish set menu featuring Heston’s iconic creations such as Meat Fruit (c.1500), Beef Royal (c.1821), and the acclaimed Tipsy Cake (c.1858).

7pm-12:30am. AED2,950 per person and AED35,000 for the private dining room (up to 12 guests). Visit website.

AURA Skypool

AURA provides guests with the chance to enjoy the stunning 360-degree views of Dubai’s illuminated skyline on New Year’s Eve. The celebration includes dancing to vibrant beats from resident DJs and live performances by saxophonists, violinists, percussionists, singers, and dancers. Guests can indulge in AURA’s signature dishes while savouring free-flowing premium French bubbles, including premium bubbly. The festivities continue into the New Year with AURA Skypool’s New Year’s Day Brunch in the indoor lounge featuring 3-hour free-flow beverages, live entertainment, and the option to add premium French bubbles for an elevated experience.

New Year’s Eve: December 31, from 8pm. From AED2,500 per person. New Year’s Day Brunch: 1-4pm. From AED550 per person. Visit website.

PLAY Restaurant & Lounge

This unforgettable experience promises an evening filled with excitement, flowing beverages, dynamic performances, and front-row views of breathtaking fireworks from its panoramic vantage point. The Nu Disco celebration seamlessly blends glitz with funk, featuring gourmet delights like Lobster Hijiki gyozas, succulent roasted salmon steak with passion fruit and apricot, and a smoky lamb rack. Revel in Play’s exciting upgrades, encompassing a revamped interior, a world-class team, an innovative Mediterranean-Asian menu, and the highlight of the season, ‘Play with My Heart’—a captivating new show theme.

December 31, from 8pm. 

Sumosan

Sumosan invites guests to celebrate the New Year in an elegant and luxurious setting, themed around The Golden Dragon in honour of 2024 being the Year of the Dragon. Two dinner seating options are available on New Year’s Eve, with no minimum spend requirement, welcoming families with children of all ages. The second seating, beginning at 9pm, extends into the new year for a memorable celebration.

Visit Instagram.

Novikov Café

Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening on the stunning terrace, offering unrivalled views of the iconic Burj Khalifa Lake and the captivating fountain show. Head Chef Riccardo Stevan has curated an opulent Mediterranean feast featuring exquisite dishes like Foie Gras with truffle, Gnocchi with Salmon & caviar, Chicken Supreme with roasted potatoes and truffle jus, and a decadent Crème Brûlée. Indulge in a five-course tasting menu complemented by unlimited non-alcoholic bubbly and mocktails, ensuring a night of pure indulgence and glamour—a perfect way to welcome 2024.

December 31, from 9pm-1am. AED1,400. Call +9714 320 0209.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort

Immerse yourself in an electric evening, featuring a symphony of flavours and world-class entertainment. Lexter and his band, alongside resident DJ Meerkat, percussionist, and saxophonist, collectively create an unparalleled atmosphere set against the breathtaking backdrop of Saadiyat Beach. Join in for a night that promises not only an exquisite culinary experience but also an unforgettable fusion of music and ambience, marking the New Year in sensational style.

Buddha-Bar Beach Abu Dhabi. December 31, 8pm-12am. AED900 per person for indoor seating. AED1,200 per person for outdoor terrace. AED1,500 per person for the lower deck. Call +9712 498 8996 or email restaurant.saadiyat@stregis.com. Visit website.

Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort

Discover the vibrant flavours of the region at TEAN, where you can experience the true essence of Levantine dining culture just steps away from the shimmering sea. Indulge in our special festive season set menu, featuring delectable grilled meats and flavorful seafood dishes prepared with traditional techniques. Elevate your dining experience with live entertainment and the melodic sounds of oriental instruments while savouring the exquisite offerings of Levantine cuisine at Tean’s à la carte setting.

New Year’s Eve Dinner: December 31, from 6pm. AED500 minimum spend per adult. 50% off per child aged 4-11 years old. Kids under 4 dine for free. Call +9712 811 4342 or email JSIrestaurants@jumeirah.com. Visit website.

The Lighthouse

Experience a stylish New Year’s Eve Night Brunch at The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar in Yas Bay, Abu Dhabi, featuring sumptuous dishes and flowing beverages, against the backdrop of panoramic views of the Yas Bay fireworks. As the clock strikes midnight, guests can enjoy a curated menu with special additions capturing the essence of the season, including starters like creamy Burrata, succulent Grilled Prawns, and Tuna Tartare. Indulge in mains such as Truffle Rigatoni, Whole Seabass, or Steak Frites, and end the meal with delectable options like the famous Honey Cake, Tiramisu, or classic Sticky Toffee Pudding.

From AED800 per person. Call +9712 236 7831.

Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City

Welcome the dawn of the new year from one of Dubai’s most sought-after locations, the alluring terrace of Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City, boasting unparalleled views of the city skyline. With a three-piece musical ensemble, an artist, and a stunning fireworks display, prepare for a premium entertainment experience. A grand international buffet and free-flowing beverages will be available with the package until 12.30am, followed by a DJ takeover at midnight ensuring the fun will continue into the early hours.

AED1,200 per person including house beverages. AED300 per child aged 6-12. Kids below 6 dine for free. Call +9714 701 1127/28. Visit website.

Rüya

Dance to the electrifying beats of a live DJ, enjoy a luxurious selection of Anatolian dishes paired with premium beverages and take advantage of outdoor seating for uninterrupted views of the Burj Al Arab.

December 31. Minimum spend applies. AED800 per person for indoor seating. AED1,100 per person for outdoor. AED400 per person for bar or high table seating.

Cabana Beach Bar & Grill

Embark on an extraordinary New Year’s Eve at Cabana Beach Bar & Grill, where the sensational five-piece band “The Talent” and talented DJ Misha promise a night filled with magic and irresistible rhythms. Expect a culinary spectacle featuring live cooking stations offering delicacies from around the world, mouthwatering grills, the freshest seafood, decadent desserts, and a selection of exquisite beverages from the bottomless bar.

December 31, from 8:30pm-2am. AED800 per person including soft beverages. AED1,100 per person including selected concoctions, grapes and hops. AED1,500 per person including selected bubbly, concoctions, grapes and hops. Children 12 years and below enjoy 50% savings. Call +9712 694 4553 or email restaurants.abudhabi@stregis.com.

CÉ LA VI Dubai

Immerse yourself in the epitome of Dubai’s glamour at this lavish venue, promising a night of multi-sensory treats, lively entertainment, and timeless elegance. Embrace the onset of 2024 with a celebration unparalleled at CÉ LA VI Dubai. Enchanting performances by the talented Jack Pack, renowned as Britain’s Got Talent’s premier Swing group, and an array of sumptuous culinary creations curated by Chef Howard Ko, against the majestic backdrop of the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks, ensure an incomparable and unforgettable farewell to this year.

December 31, from 8:00pm. A minimum spend of AED5,000 per person, redeemable towards the à la carte menu. Call +9714 582 6111 or email reservation-dxb@celavi.com. Visit website.

FIVE Palm Jumeirah

As the premier nightclub in the Middle East, The Penthouse stands as the ultimate destination to witness Dubai’s renowned New Year’s fireworks illuminating the Marina skyline. Elevate your celebration at The Penthouse with an extraordinary night of drinks, dining, and exhilarating live entertainment featuring an international DJ.

December 31, from 8pm. From AED4,000 for 2 persons. Call +97152 900 4868.

Maison De Curry 

Situated in the prime location of Souk Al Bahar, Maison De Curry provides an unparalleled front-row seat to the iconic Burj Khalifa and spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks along with captivating fountain displays. Indulge in an extraordinary dining experience with an unmatched view at Maison de Curry. Menu highlights include Lobster risotto, Pasta bolognese, Beef sliders, and plenty more.

From AED5,000 per person. Call +97152 406 6183.

Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi

The luxury hotel is set to host a French-inspired New Year’s Eve Celebration – Belle Époque, transporting guests to the era of Belle Époque, characterised by bohemian flair and splendour. The countdown to the New Year will feature a special tribute to the Gipsy Kings, accompanied by live DJ music and captivating dance performances. Against the stunning backdrop of Khor Al Maqta Creek, guests will enjoy an exclusive dinner experience and a breathtaking fireworks display as they welcome the upcoming year.

From 7:30pm-2am. From AED599 per person. Call +9712 509 8555.

GAIA

On New Year’s Eve, GAIA offers a chic celebration inspired by the Athens Riviera, transporting guests to the Mediterranean ambience. From 6:30pm, diners can enjoy an unforgettable night with GAIA’s à la carte menu, curated special dishes, and a Cyclades-inspired party at NYX featuring a renowned DJ flown in from Athens, promising an enchanting start to 2024 with upbeat house music and festive vibes.

Minimum spend of AED1,500 per person. Call +9714 241 4242.

Hurricane’s Grill & Bar

Celebrate the arrival of 2024 with an unparalleled dining experience at Hurricane’s Grill & Bar on the JBR beachfront. Indulge in a five-course feast featuring the restaurant’s renowned dishes, including the 400g Wagyu steaks, Hurricane’s famous ribs, large grilled chicken platters, roast lamb shoulder, and 9 giant Prawns Villa Moura. Complemented by an array of salads, tasting platters, and delectable garlic bread, the culinary journey concludes with the traditional South African Malva Pudding. Join for unlimited soft drinks and mocktails, with the beverage menu priced à la carte available to order.

From 8pm. Email dave@hurricanesgrillandbar.ae.

Scalini

Embark on a captivating New Year’s Eve experience at Scalini, featuring performances by the acclaimed Italian violinist Pietro Bosacci, blending classical masterpieces and house beats, while guests indulge in expertly crafted Italian delicacies. As the clock nears midnight, a stroll to the Four Seasons Beach unveils a breathtaking fireworks display against the city skyline, culminating in an unforgettable celebration of laughter, camaraderie, and the vibrant spirit of la Dolce Vita.

December 31. Call +9714 349 0068.

Mina Brasserie

Mina Brasserie’s New Year’s Eve celebration promises a perfect night with 2000 golden balloons, fantastical ice sculptures, and live music creating an enchanting atmosphere. Guests will embark on a culinary journey by chef Michael Mina, and at midnight, the terrace offers unrivalled views of Burj Khalifa’s fireworks illuminating the Dubai skyline to welcome 2024.

December 31, from 7pm-1am. Visit website.

Tamoka & Caña

New Year's Eve in the UAE

Ring in the New Year with an electrifying celebration at Tamoka and its sister venue, Caña. Enjoy a five-course sharing menu with unlimited beverages, all set to the Latin beats against a backdrop of enchanting views. As the clock strikes midnight, transition to Caña’s beach after-party for a spectacular display of fireworks over Dubai and the Palm. Dance into the night with free-flowing bubbly and live performances by guest DJs and percussionists.

December 31, from 8pm-2am. AED1,990 for indoor seating. AED2,290 for outdoor seating. AED1,650 for beach lounge seating. AED900 for the after party. Call +9714 318 6099.

Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai

Ring in the New Year at VARQ with a memorable 5-course dining experience, complete with premium beverages, and later, revel in the main stage after-party in the courtyard.

December 31, from 9pm-3am. AED2,195 per person including 5-course set menu with premium beverages. AED1,495 per person including 5-course set menu with soft beverages. Call +9714 275 4444 or +97158 125 8079. Visit Instagram.