The longest fireworks display in the UAE is scheduled to set off at midnight on December 31 at various locations in the UAE.

Iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi and Flag Island in Sharjah are gearing up to add to the dazzle of new year's eve.

However, this year, the celebration is bigger than ever with a 20-minute domino fireworks show set to commence from Downtown Dubai at midnight, lighting up the entire sky of Dubai all the way to Burj Al Arab at 12:09 am and then to Jumeirah Beach Residence at The Beach for the finale at 12:16 am.

Several locations in between the three will also be lit up including the coastline.

This year, the Burj Khalifa fireworks display is themed on a futuristic Dubai, underlining its 2020 vision while highlighting the UAE's achievements in the year gone by. The spectacular fireworks will be followed by an unprecedented audio-visual display with LED lights and light beams.

The crowning glory of Burj Khalifa's fireworks display will be a burst of multiple hues and forms, each narrating a story to resonate with Dubai residents and the global community.

Apart from the fireworks, a line-up of events have been planned across the city.

The Beach will witness a dance party with a DJ and entertainment acts starting from 5pm including LED performers, laser shows, fire breathers, aerial acts, Zumba sessions and more, all free of cost.

Atlantis will host a bigger-than-ever show synchronised to music spanning 10 minutes besides a 10-second countdown to midnight to be marked by fireworks for each second before the actual fireworks begin. Fireworks will also spell out the word Atlantis in the sky.

Global Village will see its most spectacular New Year celebration to date as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations featuring world-class Asian performers, stunt shows, music and fireworks display.

Be there on time

To reach these spots, it is recommended that people start earlier than usual on December 31 and take public transport. The Roads and Transport Authority is planning to extend the operational hours of the Dubai Metro.

Visitors to Downtown Dubai can watch the spectacle from specially allocated viewing points in Burj Park as well as from Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard. Those planning to go by car have been advised to reach earlier than 6pm before the parking gets fully occupied and then closed.

Other spots to watch the fireworks from

Jumeirah Corniche, Kite Beach in Umm Suqeim or Palace Beach on Al Sufouh Road.

A stop-off on main roads like Al Khail Road, Al Wasel Club, Meydan and Al Jadaff.

Renting a yacht, going to a park close to the celebration, or taking an RTA Ferry or waterbus is also a good choice.

Live streaming

For those who wish to spend New Year's Eve at home with family and friends, they can watch the event live on international TV channels or online at www.mydowntowndubai.com.

Live streaming will also take place on screens in Dubai Mall above the ice rink, the foyer video wall on level two, by the underwater zoo entrance, at Dubai Marina Mall, level 2 lounge video wall, and Reel Cinemas, at The Beach's Foyer video wall.

Sharjah

A dazzling fireworks firework display will be held at the stroke of midnight along with a host of activities for families and children during the day at Al Montazah Amusement and Water Park opposite Flag Island. Al Majaz waterfront will also witness fireworks.

Abu Dhabi

Al Maryah Island will once again play host to a spectacular New Year's Eve celebration. Guests will be treated to an array of programmes, followed by the fireworks at the Island's promenade.

Qaryat Al Beri is also preparing for a grand fireworks display.

For those who wish to watch the fireworks from the heart of the city, Corniche Abu Dhabi will once again bring to life this long-time tradition.
Source: Gulf News