Al Wathba, the popular venue of the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi, is gearing up to host one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations in the UAE and the wider region, with a spectacular line-up featuring record-breaking fireworks, the world’s largest drone display, and a full night of family-friendly entertainment to welcome 2026 in unforgettable style.

The night will feature a jaw-dropping 62-minute fireworks display, the world’s largest drone performance, and a vibrant mix of cultural, heritage and international entertainment. Festivities will unfold across five stages from 8pm onwards, building up to the grand midnight countdown.

The fireworks show is aiming to break five new Guinness World Records, using advanced synchronisation and launch technologies to light up the Al Wathba skyline like never before.

Adding to the spectacle, a groundbreaking drone show with 6,500 drones will take over the sky in a single 20-minute performance. Audiences can expect nine giant aerial formations, revealed for the first time globally, seamlessly synced with the digital countdown and fireworks.

Beyond the aerial displays, visitors can enjoy a rich cultural programme featuring traditional Emirati performances such as Al Ayala, Al Razfa and Al Nadooba, with hundreds of performers taking part. International groups and participating countries will also bring carnival parades, musical shows and live cultural demonstrations throughout the night.

Families are in for a treat too, with children’s shows at the Kids’ Theatre and activities at the newly opened Wonderland entertainment city, a major attraction launched this December.

To manage the massive crowds expected, organisers have rolled out expanded arrangements including extra entry and exit gates, wider walkways, enhanced safety and medical services, and dedicated field teams to keep things running smoothly.

With a powerful blend of tradition, innovation and global entertainment, Al Wathba is set to welcome 2026 in unforgettable style.