Ras Al Khaimah is gearing up to light up the sky this New Year’s Eve, and if you’re planning to be there for the record-breaking fireworks, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

A 15-minute, jaw-dropping spectacle across 6km

RAK’s headline New Year’s Eve show will run for 15 minutes and stretch an incredible 6 kilometres, from Al Marjan Island to Al Hamra. Expect one of the world’s biggest fireworks displays, powered by more than 2,300 drones, including pyro and laser drones creating massive aerial formations.

As midnight hits, the show will climax with the launch of the largest single firework ever attempted, cementing Ras Al Khaimah’s reputation as a global New Year’s Eve hotspot.

Fireworks timings and where to watch

There’s more than one chance to catch the celebrations across the emirate:

Early fireworks (8pm)
Corniche Al Qawasim
Perfect for families and anyone who wants to celebrate before the late-night rush.

City centre fireworks (8pm)
Opposite Julphar Towers
Best viewed from Manar Mall and the Ras Al Khaimah Corniche.

Main midnight show
Al Marjan Island and Al Hamra Bay
This is the main event, massive fireworks, drones and a midnight countdown like no other.

Parking and transport rules you must follow

If you’re driving, take note: all vehicles entering event areas after 2pm on December 31 must be registered.

Visitors staying or dining on Al Marjan Island will receive a registration link directly from their hotel or restaurant. Everyone else must register online at raknye.com/registration-form. Parking is free, but registration is mandatory.

Once registered, parking location details and arrival instructions will be sent via WhatsApp and email.

Official parking zones include:

• Yanas Parking: 7,000 spaces
• Jais Parking: 2,800 spaces
• Dhaya Parking: 4,500 spaces
• Exit 122 public parking: 55,000 spaces

Fireworks are visible from designated parking areas. Walking from parking zones to the beach is not allowed.

Free shuttle buses will operate from Exit 122 to the festival site throughout the evening.

Road closures and arrival advice

All roads leading to the main venue will close from 8pm. Traffic is expected to peak between 5pm and 7pm, so arriving earlier in the afternoon is strongly advised. Ras Al Khaimah Police will deploy over 70 traffic patrols to manage crowds and keep things moving safely.

Safety rules to keep in mind

Visitors are reminded to respect local customs and follow safety guidelines. Barbecues, open fires, fireworks, loudspeakers, bicycles, e-bikes and skateboards are not allowed in parking areas. Parents must supervise children at all times, and waste should be disposed of in designated bins.

Arrive early, register your vehicle, follow the rules, and witness one of the biggest New Year’s Eve fireworks shows on the globe.