Photo: AFP file

Hundreds of thousands of people from around the world eagerly await the Burj Khalifa fireworks show every New Year's Eve. While millions watch the live-stream, many in the UAE prefer to experience the spectacle in person, despite the crowds, road closures, and the challenge of standing for hours. For those who have witnessed the show live, it's an unforgettable experience that makes the effort worthwhile. Many return year after year, braving the same massive crowds. Celebrating the New Year in front of the world's tallest building is a bucket-list experience that everyone should try at least once, especially if you live in the country. If you've decided this is the year to do it, preparation is key. Here's a comprehensive guide to watching the Burj Khalifa NYE fireworks show, from getting there to leaving on shuttle buses and taking the Metro.

There are four ways to watch the dazzling display at the best viewing spots:

1. Watch from a public viewing area; free of charge
Designated public viewing areas are available around Downtown Dubai, and entry is free. Expect large crowds, as access is on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive as early as possible, hold your spot, and wait until midnight (or longer). Public viewing areas open at 5pm, and you can bring food and non-alcoholic drinks. No badges, wristbands, or tickets are required.

2. Celebrate at Burj Park; tickets at Dh580 per adult
Burj Park offers one of the best views of the iconic fireworks. Tickets include a food and drinks voucher. Prices are as follows:
Adult ticket: Dh580 (includes Dh60 food-and-drinks voucher)
Kids' ticket: Dh370 (ages 5 to 12; includes Dh30 food-and-drinks voucher)
Kids under 5: Free
Tickets can be purchased online at https://dubai.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/emaar-new-years-eve.
Badges are required for entry and can be collected from Dubai Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, or Dubai Marina Mall from December 26 to 30. Badges are colour-coded to match lamp-post flags in Downtown Dubai, which you should follow to reach Burj Park.

3. Dine at a restaurant or cafe; prices depend on the outlet
Several restaurants and cafes near Burj Khalifa, including those at Dubai Mall, offer special New Year's Eve menus. While prices are higher than usual, you'll secure a good viewing spot. Make reservations early, as slots fill up quickly. Badges and wristbands are required for access to restricted areas near Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. These must be collected by 10pm on December 30; no collection or validation is possible after this time, and lost badges cannot be replaced.

4. Book a room at a hotel in Downtown
Hotels offering panoramic views of Burj Khalifa are a great option to avoid the crowds. However, rooms are usually booked months in advance. Among the hotels in the area are Armani Hotel and Westminster Dubai Mall. Expect to pay significantly higher rates during this time. Badges are required for hotel guests who wish to access viewing areas, but these badges are limited to your hotel and cannot be used for other paid or reserved venues.

How to get there
Once you've decided how you'll watch the fireworks, plan your transportation. Public transport is recommended, but if you drive, here are some key points:
Arrive in Downtown Dubai by 5pm at the latest, as road closures will be implemented. Before 5pm, park at public areas like Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Zabeel Parking, or Fountain Views Parking (first-come, first-served). After 5pm, park at Al Wasl Club or Al Meydan — Falcon Heritage and Sports Centre, and take shuttle buses to the venue (badge required). Roads will start closing between 6pm and 8pm. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will provide more details about the traffic plan. The Dubai Metro is the best public transport option, stopping at the Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall station. However, the station may close depending on the crowd situation, so stay updated. Taxis will operate as usual but may face detours due to road closures.

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