Top 10 New Year events in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi - Here are the top 10 things to do for New Year's Eve in Abu Dhabi, including spectacular free events

With New Year's Eve just around the corner, there is still enough time for residents in UAE's Capital to choose where they want to celebrate. After all, there is something special about celebrating the final moments of 2016, saying goodbye to the past, and hello to the future.
Whether you want to splurge, or have a tight budget to work with - here are the top 10 things to do for New Year's Eve in Abu Dhabi, including spectacular free events.
Celebrate with Emirati star Hussain Al Jasmi: 10,000 people are expected to attend and watch the soul-stirring music of Hussain Al Jasmi, Egyptian pop icon Mohammad Hamaki, and Palestinian singing sensation Mohammad Assaf, as they perform on the waterfront promenade of Al Maryah Island. Free to attend.
Winterland Carnival: Held at the du Forum, the free carnival will offer visitors a range of fun-filled activities for the whole family, including a snow park featuring an ice slide, snowball fights and snowmen. Families will enjoy the festivities with traditional carnival funfair games and rides, along with a display of fireworks at Yas South. The carnival will be held from 4pm onwards on New Year's Eve and free to attend.
Watch the fireworks: Firework displays continue this year with elaborate shows across the Capital. The fireworks can be seen lighting up the skies from Emirates Palace, Al Maryah Island Promenade, and Khor Al Maqtaa.
Afrobeats artist Fuse ODG: The UV party themed event held at Hiltonia Beach Club will welcome internationally acclaimed afrobeats artist Fuse ODG, who has worked with mega artists, including Sean Paul and Major Lazer. From Dh200, visit www.hilton.com.
Jamaican fusion: A Caribbean-themed party with a live performance by Jamaican reggae artist Wayne Wonder, who will be singing the night away at Sheraton Hotel. Dh150, www.sheratonabudhabi.com.
Celebrate with Coldplay: The British rock band Coldplay will perform live at the du Arena on Yas Island, as part of their global 'A Head Full of Dreams Tour,' which has already sold over 2.5 million tickets worldwide. Visitors will also witness a beautiful display of fireworks close to midnight. From Dh316, www.thinkflash.ae.
Elrow at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE: Located between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE will welcome international DJs to celebrate the final moments of 2016. From Dh500, Golden Tulip Al Jazira Hotel and Resort, Ghantoot.
Celebrate with Queen of pop Nancy Ajram: The multi-platinum recording artist and three-time World Music Awards winner, Lebanese singer Nancy Arjam will perform accompanied by Bilal Fares at Beach Rotana. For booking details, visit www.facebook.com/nancyajram.
Great Gatsby at The Club: The 1920's theme black tie event will have live music from Brand New Groove, as well as a buffet and fireworks display. From Dh725, www.the-club.com.
Grand NYE Gala at Emirates Palace: Guests will be entertained with live music and a grand buffet. Each corner of the ballroom will feature exciting entertainment, including acrobats and contortionist dancers, while the beach area will display grand fireworks complete with a pyrotechnic display to countdown the last few seconds of 2016. From Dh1,375, www.kempinski.com.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com

• Abu Dhabi