Ras Al Khaimah ushered in 2026 with a sweeping New Year’s Eve celebration that blended large-scale spectacle with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, as thousands gathered along the emirate's coastline and public spaces to welcome the new year.
A 15-minute drone and fireworks display that earned Ras Al Khaimah a new Guinness World Records title. Photos by RAKTDA
From late afternoon, crowds steadily flowed towards waterfront viewing areas, with traffic and pedestrian movement managed to ensure a smooth build-up to the night's main event.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, families, friends and visitors settled in along the shore, near public stages and food stalls, creating a calm yet expectant mood across the emirate.
The festival atmosphere was marked by live music, casual dining and social gatherings, with people lingering outdoors, sharing food and taking in the coastal views as anticipation grew. Visitors from across the UAE and abroad said Ras Al Khaimah's accessible waterfront setting and open-air celebrations offered a refreshing alternative to more congested city centres.
Shortly after midnight, the celebrations reached their climax with a 15-minute drone and fireworks display that earned Ras Al Khaimah a new Guinness World Records title for the largest aerial display of a phoenix formed by multirotors/drones.
RAKTDA
A total of 2,300 drones, including 1,000 pyro drones, transformed the night sky into a dynamic canvas, with the phoenix symbolizing renewal, optimism and rebirth. The drone performance was followed by a precisely timed fireworks countdown stretching six kilometres from Marjan Island to Al Hamra, as waves of colour and light rippled along the coastline.
Earlier in the evening, families and residents had also enjoyed an early fireworks display at Corniche Al Qawasim, extending the celebrations across the emirate.
RAKTDA
Thousands of spectators at beachfront resorts and public festival areas were treated to live stage performances and entertainment throughout the night, reinforcing the communal spirit that has become a hallmark of Ras Al Khaimah’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.
RAKTDA
Commenting on the achievement, Phillipa Harrison, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), said the event was designed to be shared by the entire community and visitors alike, noting that while the Guinness World Records title was significant, the focus remained on creating meaningful memories and welcoming the new year with optimism.
With its latest record-breaking display, Ras Al Khaimah continues to strengthen its reputation as a global destination for innovative and emotionally resonant New Year’s Eve celebrations, closing the year on a high note and setting the tone for the year ahead.
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Azza Al Ali
Azza Al Ali is a reporter from Ras Al Khaimah, dedicated to sharing stories that bring the community...