Dubai’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are always on a different scale, and the city’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has now added another experience to make the final night of the year even more memorable. The authority has confirmed special New Year’s Eve 2026 fireworks cruises, giving passengers a front-row seat to some of the most-watched fireworks in the world.
The announcement has already caught attention across the city, mainly because these routes offer something that land-based viewing zones can’t—unobstructed views of multiple fireworks shows in one trip. And with the focus keyword RTA New Year’s Eve fireworks cruises reflecting what many residents are searching for at this time of year, the demand for these seats is expected to be high.
A New Year’s Eve With Dubai’s Skyline Front and Centre
Every year, Dubai draws global attention with its New Year’s countdown. Crowds gather early across Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters, JBR and the city’s beaches. For many, securing a good viewing spot can be tricky, especially near major landmarks like Burj Khalifa or Atlantis.
RTA’s marine services offer a calmer alternative. On 31 December 2025, three transport modes—Dubai Ferry, Water Taxi and Abras—will run extended late-night services. All departures are scheduled between 10:00 pm and 10:30 pm, with trips ending at 1:30 am, allowing passengers to enjoy the full run of fireworks without rushing back to shore.
These routes naturally pass through Dubai’s busiest fireworks zones, which means guests can witness shows across multiple destinations in one journey. For anyone who has experienced the New Year’s Eve crowds in Downtown or along JBR, this option offers something rare—space, comfort and an uninterrupted skyline view.
Dubai Ferry: A Comfortable Cruise Through Dubai’s Fireworks Hotspots
The Dubai Ferry remains one of the city’s most popular marine options. Spacious seating, air-conditioned cabins and wide windows make it ideal for sightseeing. During the New Year’s Eve cruise, it turns into a floating vantage point.
Trips will operate from three key stations:
- Marina Mall Marine Transport Station
- Al Ghubaiba Marine Transport Station
- Bluewaters Marine Transport Station
Fares for these special departures are Dh350 for Silver Class and Dh525 for Gold Class. Families will find the pricing flexible—children aged 2 to 10 receive a 50% discount, and toddlers under two travel free.
Passengers boarding at Marina Mall or Bluewaters will enjoy a route that passes JBR, Ain Dubai and parts of Palm Jumeirah before moving toward the central coastline. Those departing from Al Ghubaiba will experience Old Dubai’s heritage sites before the ferry heads toward modern districts.
Water Taxi: A Private New Year’s Eve for Groups and Families
Private celebrations are growing in popularity, especially for New Year’s Eve. RTA’s Water Taxi caters directly to that demand. The service offers a full-boat booking for groups wishing to celebrate in complete privacy.
Operating from Marina Mall Marine Transport Station, each Water Taxi can accommodate up to 20 passengers, including wheelchair access. The full booking is priced at Dh3,750, making it ideal for families, corporate teams, or groups of friends looking for a quiet, personalised celebration with direct views of Dubai’s skyline.
Water Taxi services offer flexible routes year-round, making them a convenient option for private coastal trips across Dubai.
Abras: A Traditional Ride With a New Year’s Twist
For many residents, Abras are synonymous with Dubai’s cultural identity. These traditional wooden boats continue to serve the city every day, connecting neighbourhoods along the Creek. On New Year’s Eve, RTA gives them a festive role.
Abras will depart from:
- Al Jaddaf
- Al Fahidi
- Al Ghubaiba
- Marina Mall
The fare is set at Dh150 per person, with free travel for children under two. Like the Ferry and Water Taxi, the timing remains between 10:00 pm and 10:30 pm, with all journeys ending at 1:30 am.
What makes the Abra trips stand out is the experience itself. The wooden finish, open-air seating and nostalgic feel add a cultural touch to the celebrations. Passengers can enjoy a slower, more grounded NYE experience that still offers clear views of the city’s fireworks.
How to Book These New Year’s Eve Trips
RTA has kept the booking process simple. Passengers can make reservations or inquiries through 8009090 or the official RTA email dedicated to marine bookings. With these services getting fully booked every year, early reservations are recommended.
What makes the demand even higher is the route coverage. These marine services move along Dubai’s most popular coastal destinations—the World Islands, Palm Islands, Dubai Water Canal and historical districts near the Creek. For many residents, these routes offer views they don’t normally see from land.
Marine Trips play a vital role in the celebration
Dubai’s New Year’s Eve is a citywide celebration, and traffic can get dense near major attractions. RTA’s marine services provide:
- A safe alternative to large crowds
- A scenic way to view multiple fireworks shows
- Guaranteed seating without last-minute stress
- A unique experience for visitors discovering Dubai for the first time
For tourists staying near Dubai Marina, Downtown, or the Palm, these trips offer a memory that stands out from regular celebrations.
Dubai continues to position itself as a city of experiences. Whether it’s cruising through the Water Canal or taking the Ferry to coastal landmarks, marine travel adds another dimension to the city’s lifestyle.
RTA’s New Year’s Eve 2026 fireworks cruises bring a refreshing way to celebrate the night. Whether passengers choose the comfort of the Dubai Ferry, the privacy of the Water Taxi or the cultural charm of an Abra ride, they’ll get a front-row view of one of the world’s most iconic New Year’s celebrations.
Read More:
- Where to Watch UAE National Day Fireworks: 10 Stunning Spots Across The Emirates – Social Kandura
- Dubai’s Best Christmas Brunches & Dinners around the city – Social Kandura
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