Ras Al Khaimah rang in the New Year by rewriting the record books, unveiling the world’s largest aerial display of a phoenix using an extraordinary 2,300 drones.

The record-breaking moment came during the emirate’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, when thousands of spectators watched the mythical bird of renewal rise across the night sky in a meticulously choreographed drone performance along the RAK coastline.

According to organisers, the historic display involved 2,300 drones flying in perfect synchronisation, with 1,000 specialised pyro drones used to illuminate the phoenix’s wings with bursts of light and fire effects. The scale and precision of the formation secured Ras Al Khaimah a new Guinness World Record, further cementing its reputation for headline-making New Year celebrations.

The 15-minute drone and fireworks sequence transformed the waterfront into a moving canvas of animated visuals. At its centre was the towering phoenix formation, a symbol of rebirth and fresh beginnings, chosen to mark the arrival of 2026.

The drone show also featured a second large-scale formation titled The Welcome, depicting a human figure rising from the sea with open arms. The image was designed to reflect Ras Al Khaimah’s spirit of hospitality and openness, a message organisers said resonated strongly with residents and visitors alike.

As midnight approached, the drones gave way to a precisely timed fireworks countdown, culminating in a six-kilometre-long fireworks display stretching from Marjan Island to Al Hamra. Hundreds of fireworks were launched in synchronised waves, lighting up the coastline in a seamless blend of colour, sound and movement.

Phillipa Harrison, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said the aim was to unite the community while celebrating the emirate’s continued growth. “We wanted to create a celebration that everyone in Ras Al Khaimah, and those visiting us, could share, while marking an important milestone for the emirate,” she said.