As the New Year approaches, Sharjah and the federal government have announced official holidays for employees, providing residents across the UAE with an opportunity to celebrate in style.

Sharjah government employees will enjoy a public holiday on Thursday, January 1, 2026, with offices reopening on Monday, January 5. Federal government employees will also have the day off on January 1, with remote work on January 2. These announcements mark the first paid holidays of 2026, setting the tone for a festive start to the year.

Excitement is building for celebrations across the UAE, including spectacular fireworks and light shows.

RAK to set record

Ras Al Khaimah is planning a 15-minute fireworks display along 6 km of coastline, featuring more than 2,300 drones, pyrotechnics, and lasers. Organisers are even aiming for a Guinness World Record with the largest single firework ever launched.

Dubai: Burj Park goes Bollywood
This year, Burj Park will add a Bollywood twist to its New Year celebrations, with Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment taking part in the show. Visitors can enjoy a dazzling fireworks display, stunning views of Burj Khalifa, the recently reopened Dubai Fountain show, and live performances that promise an unforgettable night.

Abu Dhabi Corniche: Waterfront magic
The 8-kilometre waterfront of Abu Dhabi is the place to be for fireworks lovers. Catch the best views at the MOTN Festival, Manar at Lulu Island, or Corniche Beach. For thrill-seekers, jet ski rentals offer a unique perspective of the night’s spectacle from the water.

Yas Island: Celebrate with a full experience
Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Marina, Yas Beach, and Manar at Samaliyah Island offer fantastic vantage points for fireworks. Visitors can make it a full celebration with a two-night stay, a gala dinner, live entertainment, and access to Yas Island’s theme parks. Fireworks light up the sky at 9 PM and midnight, creating a double dose of excitement.

Al Wathba: Record-breaking spectacle
Al Wathba is set to dazzle with a 62-minute fireworks extravaganza, aiming for five Guinness World Records. The display will run in five segments from 8 PM to midnight, promising one of the longest and most spectacular shows in the region.

With long weekends and dazzling displays, residents and visitors alike can expect a New Year’s kickoff full of fun, festivities, and unforgettable moments.