When the clock struck midnight on December 31, Dubai lit up with a spectacular show, drawing visitors from around the world to welcome the New Year in grand style.
Thousands gathered at the city’s famous landmarks, like the iconic Burj Khalifa, to soak in the festivities. However, heading home after the celebrations wasn’t always smooth for everyone.
Hulya Esen, a 35-year-old from Istanbul who also lives in Sofia, expressed her excitement about spending the New Year in Dubai. “We always come to Dubai for holidays. The New Year in Dubai is the best; we always celebrate with a view of the Burj Khalifa. It’s absolutely amazing and fantastic,” she shared enthusiastically.
This year was her fourth consecutive New Year celebration in Dubai. She and her companions stayed until 6 am, enjoying every moment before heading back to their accommodation at the World Trade Centre.
Meanwhile, Hajar Al Sharif, an Egyptian living in Ajman, appreciated the well-organized festivities. “Dubai is the most famous place in the world for New Year celebrations,” she said. Arriving at 6 pm and leaving at 12:20 am, Hajar made it home by 1:30 am.
“The event was organized, and moving around was comfortable without any congestion. It was definitely worth it,” she added, highlighting how smooth and enjoyable the celebrations were despite the late-night crowds.
For Sageer Puthiyaveettil, a 35-year-old Indian resident in Sharjah’s Al Majaz area, celebrating close to home made the experience even better. “I live near Al Majaz Waterfront, so it was the perfect and most convenient spot for New Year celebrations,” he said.
Sageer arrived around 11:45 pm and found a great spot near Noor Masjid to enjoy the festivities. “The area was packed, but the lively atmosphere made it special,” he explained. He and his friends stayed until the end of the breathtaking 5-minute fireworks display and left shortly after midnight. His 15-minute walk home was pleasant, thanks to the well-lit streets and refreshing breeze. “It was totally worth it,” he concluded.
However, not everyone’s experience was as seamless. Hanna Ramos, a 22-year-old Filipino living in Sharjah, arrived at Al Majaz Waterfront at 8 pm to enjoy the celebrations with her family.
“It was well-organized,” she said, despite needing 40 minutes to return home after the fireworks. She reached home by 1 am and felt the experience was worthwhile, especially since she got to spend quality time with loved ones.
As the New Year dawned, many reflected on their night. While the thrill of the celebrations was unforgettable, the journey home highlighted the energy and vibrancy of the city during the holiday season.
For those who ventured out and those who celebrated quietly at home, one thing was clear: New Year in Dubai is an unforgettable experience, and the magic of the city makes it worth navigating the crowds and traffic.
