New Year’s Eve celebrations in Dubai are usually elaborate and spectacular. Millions of tourists from all over the world, flock to Dubai this time of the year to spend a memorable time with their loved ones. While Burj Khalifa remains a much favoured attraction among tourists, for the unversed, there’s so much to this city of lights, such as grand dinners, dancing and laser shows, you would love to explore.
But this year, if you’re planning to explore this majestic and dynamic city, you’ll want to know what places you ‘can’ and ‘cannot’ visit due to the current pandemic. The UAE government in the phase of easing restrictions previously in place due to the COVID 19 pandemic and to ensure the safety of the citizens and tourists, it has announced some guidelines that people will need to follow to keep themselves and others safe!
Here’s what you need to know about New Year’s Eve celebrations in Dubai!
- Fireworks on New Year’s Eve in Downtown Dubai? YES, please!
New Year’s Eve celebration in Dubai is incomplete without fireworks and laser shows. If you’re planning to visit Downtown Dubai this time of the year, you won’t be disappointed as the splendid Burj Khalifa New Year’s Eve firework display has been confirmed. Downtown Dubai is also preparing for its dazzling laser show and the New Year’s Eve gala, which will also broadcast live globally.
The celebrations will take place as per the guidelines and directions issued by the UAE Government. There will be strict health and safety measures, social distancing protocols, which people will have to follow. There will also be thermal cameras, contactless payments, and frequent deep cleaning and disinfecting to ensure the safety of residents and tourists visiting the city. - Gatherings/events in the City
As per the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA), precautionary measures are a must to stop the spread of the COVID-19 coronavirus. According to NCEMA, event organizers will need to take a permit from the relevant authorities and implement strict safety measures to organize any concert or event.If you wish to attend an event or a concert this year, then perhaps, you must check what events or concerts will be held during New Year’s Eve and whether or not they have been approved. Also, gather as much information as you need to regarding safety measures, social distancing norms, etc., to ensure everyone’s safety!
- Office celebrations are allowed, but they CANNOT be grand, like past years.
If you work in the UAE and are planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve at the workplace with your colleagues, then you CAN, but keep the celebration a low-key affair. As per the guidelines, people can deck up the offices by putting up flags and other decorative items, but you cannot go with your coworkers to watch fireworks or other shows. Gatherings to watch shows are not permitted.
You can have virtual celebrations if you like, and with regards to attending events, the guidelines suggest making reservations in advance for approved events, that last for not more than 3-4 hours. - Private parties are NOT yet permitted!
Private parties are popular in Dubai, but they are not yet permitted. The NCEMA stresses on the need for everyone to follow safety measures, not to host parties or events, and prohibit the distribution and exchange of celebratory gifts and food.
If you live in Dubai and want to host a party, then keep it an intimate affair, celebrating only with family members or a very limited group of friends. You can watch the live streaming of fireworks in Downtown Dubai if you want a laid-back approach to the celebration as it will surely keep you and your loved ones safe!
Dubai is a traveller’s delight and a spectacular tourist destination, especially during the Christmas holidays and for New Year’s Eve celebrations. The fireworks, skyscrapers, parties, galas, and events will win you over, making you want to visit this city every year. If you’re visiting Dubai in December this year, make sure you follow the guidelines and safety measures issued by the UAE Government in order to keep yourself and others safe (and still celebrate) in times of the COVID-19 pandemic.
