5 things to do in Dubai this NYE that aren’t Coldplay

Photo credit: Anna Omelchenko

We’re sure you’re familiar with the news: Coldplay Live at du Arena sold out. Fast. Within hours of tickets going on sale.

And if you missed out on getting tickets to … er, the hottest ticket in town this NYE, it may feel like there’s nothing to do in the UAE on 31 December that doesn’t involve a nightclub booking. The good news is that there are a few last-minute options available … and you’ll save plenty of money in the process.

1. HEAD TO THE BIGGEST PARTY DOWNTOWN

Courtesy Downtown Dubai

If you haven’t done this yet, then catching the record-breaking colourful fireworks display at the Burj Khalifa is certainly one for your checklist. With tonnes of fireworks, LED displays, and thousands of people counting down to 2017, this one is guaranteed to give you goose bumps as the clock strikes midnight.

The highlight of this year’s NYE fireworks is that the sequence will recreate the design of the Expo 2020 logo and will celebrate national pride.

Tip: Get there early, especially if you’re catching the fireworks right in the heart of the city, at Burj Park or Downtown Dubai. Organisers told us that people should start making their way down from as early as 4pm. Alternatively, head to The Palm Jumeirah or Kite Beach before the sun goes down to secure a nice spot and avoid the crowds.

2. TRAVEL AROUND THE WORLD IN A FEW HOURS

Courtesy Global Village

Offering fun for all ages, entertainment destination Global Village is hosting its very own NYE celebration on Saturday. The party kicks off with DJ Nawaf, who will take to the decks at 10.30pm to keep the crowd entertained. Then, at midnight, an exciting fireworks display will take place at the big Ferris wheel of Fantasy Island.

3. CELEBRATE WITH THE BIGGEST ARAB POPSTAR ON THE PLANET

Amr Diab, the best-selling Egyptian singer of all time, will headline a concert this NYE at the Intercontinental Hotel, Dubai Festival City. What’s more, he’s set to be joined by Lebanese singing star Myriam Fares.

4. GET ON A BOAT… OR DRIVE INTO THE DESERT

Courtesy Desert Safari Dubai

Let Mother Nature open her doors to you on your last day in 2016. Whether it’s an organised dhow cruise or a cosy get-together with friends on a fun desert safari, there are still a few packages available to book online.

For example, Musafir.com is offering a NYE package aboard a 5-star dhow that includes a three-hour cruise through the Dubai Creek, a tanoura dance and an Emirati yowla show, plus a buffet with unlimited soft drinks prepared by Movenpick Hotel Unlimited.

Meanwhile, Desert Safari Dubai is hosting a special desert safari party with a live band and an open-buffet dinner.

5. OR THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Admit it, you know you secretly wanted this one to be on the list. As we grow older (and wiser! haha), the thought of getting stuck in traffic for hours is exhausting in itself. So why not just watch all the action in the comfort of your home? Gather a few friends and family members, order a takeaway and watch the live-streaming of the celebrations at Burj Khalifa on mydubainewyear.com. Best of all? It will probably cost you less than AED 100. Sorted.

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