Listen to this article with AI
What To Know
- 00 pm on the open-air terrace and includes a formal dinner, fireworks at midnight, and a DJ-led after-party.
- 00 pm, featuring an international DJ, live dance performances, fire shows, a kids’ zone, beach access, and a midnight fireworks display.
- With confirmed timings, venues, and ticket pricing, Abu Dhabi has laid out a clear New Year’s Eve 2026 plan that spans luxury hotels, festival grounds, island stages, and desert arenas.
John Legend, Alicia Keys, Ricky Martin, and massive NYE events, confirmed
As Dubai prepares for another headline-making holiday season, Abu Dhabi has officially confirmed its New Year’s Eve 2026 programming, and the lineup leaves very little room for hesitation. December 31, 2025 will bring international superstars, major Arab artists, beachfront celebrations, desert concerts, and ticketed galas to venues spread throughout the capital. From luxury hotel terraces to open-air island stages, the night places music and celebration front and center. These events are now publicly listed, ticketed, and scheduled, making plans for the final night of the year very clear.
Global Superstars Take Over Abu Dhabi on December 31
John Legend leads one of the city’s most premium celebrations with a live New Year’s Eve performance at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. The evening begins at 8:00 pm on the open-air terrace and includes a formal dinner, fireworks at midnight, and a DJ-led after-party. Entry for the gala starts at AED 3,500.
Saadiyat Island hosts two headline concerts as part of Saadiyat Nights. Alicia Keys takes the stage at 5:00 pm, delivering a full live set in the open-air venue. Later that evening, Ricky Martin performs starting at 7:00 pm, bringing his global catalog to the same stage. Tickets for both concerts start at AED 308.
Arab Music Stars and Major Festival Shows Confirmed
Arab pop takes center stage at several large venues. Ramy Sabry performs live at the MOTN Festival on Abu Dhabi Corniche at A’l Bahar, starting at 7:00 pm, with tickets from AED 225.
At Space42 Arena, a joint concert brings together Nassif Zeytoun and Haifa Wehbe. Doors open ahead of a 7:30 pm start, with dining and drinks available. Ticket prices begin at AED 495.
Desert, Beachfront, and Waterfront Celebrations
Liwa Village Grand Arena confirms a desert New Year’s Eve celebration near the Moreeb Dune, starting at 8:30 pm. The lineup includes Khalid Abdulrahman, Fouad Abdelwahed, Aseel Hameem, and Hamad Alameri. Tickets begin at AED 145.
For a waterfront evening, Rosewood Abu Dhabi hosts its Masquerade Ball beginning at 9:00 pm. The program includes live music from The GIPSY’s band, DJ Keith Dobbs, Milan on Sax, and Ghaith on percussion. Entry starts at AED 199.
Marsana East Beach on Hudayriyat Island offers a public-friendly beachfront event from 8:00 pm, featuring an international DJ, live dance performances, fire shows, a kids’ zone, beach access, and a midnight fireworks display. Tickets start at AED 100.
With confirmed timings, venues, and ticket pricing, Abu Dhabi has laid out a clear New Year’s Eve 2026 plan that spans luxury hotels, festival grounds, island stages, and desert arenas. The lineup places international chart-toppers alongside regional icons and accessible public events. For those watching from Dubai or planning a short trip, the capital’s December 31 calendar now stands fully defined. The final night of the year in Abu Dhabi comes preloaded with music, fireworks, and choices that demand early planning.
