If New Year’s Eve had a personality in Abu Dhabi, it would be that effortlessly glamorous friend who somehow manages to do everything—concerts, gala dinners, desert stargazing—and still look flawless at midnight. From city sparkle to sand-dune magic, the capital knows how to say goodbye to the old year and hello to the new with serious style.
So whether you’re here for big-name concerts, black-tie dinners, or a countdown under the stars (literal stars, not just fairy lights), Abu Dhabi has your NYE plans covered. Let’s break it down, shall we?
Live Shows & Concerts (Bring Your Sing-Along Voice)
Under-the-stars magic with Alicia Keys at Saadiyat Nights
If your idea of a perfect New Year includes soulful vocals and a dreamy open-air setting, Saadiyat Nights is calling. The legendary Alicia Keys takes the stage for a New Year’s Eve concert that promises chills, feels, and all the hits you definitely know by heart. Midnight just hits different when it’s wrapped in live music and island vibes.
A gala night with John Legend at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Prefer your New Year’s Eve with a side of elegance? Head to Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental for an exclusive gala dinner paired with a live performance by John Legend. Think fine dining, iconic surroundings, and a soundtrack that feels like a slow toast to the year ahead.
Arabic pop energy with Haifa Wehbe & Nassif Zaytoun at Space 42
For a high-energy, crowd-loving celebration, Space 42 brings the vibes with performances by Haifa Wehbe and Nassif Zaytoun. Expect big voices, bigger sing-alongs, and an atmosphere that’s buzzing well before midnight.
Gala Dinners & Dining Experiences (Dress Up, Dig In)
Oscars-themed glamour at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort
Roll out the red carpet—literally. Abu Dhabi Golf Resort hosts an outdoor, Oscars-themed gala celebrating its 25th anniversary. Expect an international buffet, live trio band, festive flair, and a few luxury giveaways just to keep things exciting.
Waterfront celebrations at Hilton Yas Island, Yas Bay Lawn
If you love a party that doesn’t rush you home at midnight, Yas Bay Lawn is the place to be. Hilton Yas Island brings dining, live music, samba dancers—and yes, an after-party that keeps the fun rolling into the new year.
Classic city vibes at Bab Al Qasr
For a timeless NYE experience, Bab Al Qasr delivers a gala evening with live music, a proper midnight countdown, and a DJ after-party. Central, festive, and effortlessly celebratory.
Desert Dreams & Family-Friendly Countdowns
Desert luxury at Qasr Al Sarab by Anantara
If your New Year’s Eve fantasy includes dunes, stars, and a touch of majlis magic, Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara delivers. Open-air celebrations, before-and-after parties, and a desert backdrop that makes midnight feel truly special.
All-ages celebration at Erth Abu Dhabi, Al Fayy Garden
Celebrating with the whole crew? Erth Abu Dhabi offers a family-friendly gala with live music, kids’ activities, a midnight countdown, and a DJ to keep everyone dancing—big kids included.
Liwa International Festival: countdown among the dunes
For something truly different, head to Liwa Village during the Liwa International Festival. A festive countdown surrounded by dramatic dunes and open skies? That’s a New Year’s memory you won’t forget anytime soon.
Close-to-home fun at Mother of the Nation (MOTN)
Want fireworks, food, and festive energy without overthinking it? Mother of the Nation Festival along the Corniche offers a lively, family-friendly New Year’s Eve with the city skyline setting the scene.
So… How Are You Ringing in the New Year?
From waterfront parties and chart-topping concerts to desert celebrations and elegant gala dinners, Abu Dhabi makes New Year’s Eve feel easy, festive, and just the right amount of extra. Whether you’re dancing into midnight, clinking glasses under chandeliers, or counting down beneath the desert stars, the capital has a celebration with your name on it.
All that’s left? Pick your vibe, plan your outfit, and let Abu Dhabi do the rest. Happy New Year!
