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UAE's Capital worked extra hard to coordinate something special for its residents this New Year's Eve. Mega firework displays on all corners of the city; celebrity parties and memorable festivities were part of the celebrations.
Residents in the Capital are eager to start a new, fresh year, with new hopes, inspirations and dreams. Some residents spoke to Khaleej Times about how they celebrated the night, but particularly on what their goals are for 2016.
Doctor Rami Al Ani, from Al Mafraq Hospital, said that his goals on specialising in paediatrics are getting closer. "I feel that I have achieved many great things in 2015, and my dreams of specialising in paediatrics don't seem too far away," he said.
"So I have a really good feeling about 2016, I think it will be a year of great success," he added.
The 29-year-old noted that he welcomed the New Year at a concert, which was held in du Forum on Yas Island.
The party featured Lebanese singing sensation and Arabs' Got Talent Judge Najwa Karam, as well as Morocco's Saad Lamjarred, who is perhaps most famous for his hit "Lm3allem," which has almost 234 million views on YouTube.
Dania Mahmood said that she ushered the New Year at a special concert held in Al Ain.
The party included Fayez Al Saeed, Ruwaida Al Mahroqi, Shamma Hamdan and Habib Alyasi, and was held in the Municipality Theatre.
"I live about two hours away from Al Ain, but my favourite artists were playing, so I felt this will be a perfect opportunity to start the New Year fresh," she said.
"I don't want 2016 to start with 'what ifs' and 'buts,' I want to be a go-getter and do all I can to achieve my dreams," noted the aspiring fashion designer.
Doctor Yasmin Hashim said that she preferred to celebrate the night quietly with her loved ones.
"Every year we celebrate the night at a concert or at an event, but this year we wanted to do something special and avoid the loud noise."
"We wanted to have an intimate celebration with our closest families and friends, who are visiting UAE from Canada," she noted.
The 25-year-old pointed out that she is already achieving her goals, but wishes to find greater opportunities in the dentistry field.
"Dentistry can be a challenge for many at times, but I think the New Year will open greater doors for me," she added.
Streets were busy throughout the day, especially on the main roads, and police patrolling was heavily intensified around busy areas, with additional officers assigned to popular tourist attractions.
Corniche road and its sideways were packed with residents and tourists who made the countdown to January 1 together. They were eagerly anticipating the long-awaited fireworks display from Emirates Palace, which has been a long-time tradition.
16-year-old student Ali Alhassan said that this year's fireworks certainly exceeded his expectations.
"I was planning to go to a party in Dubai with friends, but I'm really glad I stayed here, saw the fireworks and shared the moment with my parents."
Maggi said that she preferred to have an intimate dinner, close to another fireworks display location on the lavish Al Maryah Island.
"I wanted to spend New Year relaxing with family who arrived from overseas for a holiday," she said, adding that, "we had a lovely evening with the grandparents and watched the dazzling fireworks on the waterfront promenade."
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com
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