UAE, Australia ring in New Year with spectacular fireworks

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Australia welcomed 2026 with dazzling fireworks and light displays at their iconic landmarks, lighting up the night sky at the stroke of midnight on January 1.

In Dubai, the 828-meter-tall Burj Khalifa lit up with “Happy New Year” in Arabic, English, and Chinese on its LED screens, thrilling crowds during the countdown. The eight-minute visual spectacle also featured drone performances and 3D projection mapping, highlighting Dubai’s cultural heritage and advanced technology.

For the first time, New Year celebrations in downtown Dubai will run for eight days, from December 31, 2025, to January 7, 2026, local authorities announced.

Across the globe, Sydney, Australia, welcomed 2026 with its world-famous fireworks over the harbor. Millions gathered along the waterfront to enjoy two spectacular shows – an eight-minute display at 9 p.m. and a 12-minute midnight extravaganza. Fireworks launched from land, water, and aerial platforms lit up landmarks including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, spanning seven kilometers and featuring 40,000 pyrotechnic effects.

This Southern Hemisphere tradition draws spectators from around the world every year. Many arrived early to share the festive moment with friends and family.

“We spend time together with friends because everybody is away from their families; otherwise, maybe you’ll get a little homesick,” said Hendrik, an Estonian working in Australia.

“My New Year’s wish for my wife is for her to become healthy after I am pretty much healthy again,” shared Atthians, a German tourist.

—China Central Television/Reuters