The UAE is set to welcome the New Year with a grand 62-minute fireworks and drone spectacle at the Sheikh Zayed Festival grounds in Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi. Months of planning and weeks of rehearsals have gone into the synchronized show, which will feature thousands of firework shells and approximately 6,500 drones forming three-dimensional shapes in the sky. The display will be set to Emirati music and incorporate the colors of the UAE flag, blending traditional heritage with modern visual technology.
Extensive safety and logistical preparations are underway, with multiple teams coordinating fireworks experts, drone operators, security personnel, and emergency services. A central control room will monitor all systems in real time, while launch zones will be secured an hour before midnight. Rehearsals are being conducted to fine-tune timing and assess weather conditions, ensuring a seamless and safe experience for the expected large crowds.
The show is part of nationwide New Year celebrations, reinforcing the UAE’s reputation for hosting world-class public events. Alongside the fireworks, the drone segment is designed to reflect Emirati culture and narrate visual stories in the sky. Hundreds of engineers, technicians, and security staff are involved in the execution, highlighting the scale and complexity of the production.
Visitors are advised to follow official guidance, use public transport where possible, and arrive early due to expected traffic and enhanced security measures. The Sheikh Zayed Festival has become a key NYE destination, offering family-friendly entertainment while showcasing the UAE’s capacity for innovation and grandeur in event management.




