Ras Al Khaimah has welcomed 2026 with a large-scale New Year’s Eve celebration featuring a coordinated drone and fireworks display, setting a new Guinness World Records title for the largest aerial image of a phoenix formed by multirotor drones.
The 15-minute spectacle unfolded over the emirate’s waterfront and was led by an advanced drone performance that transformed the night sky into a series of animated formations. The highlight was a record-breaking phoenix created by 2,300 drones, including 1,000 pyro drones that produced flame-like visual effects across the wings, symbolizing renewal and rebirth.
The drone program also included a second formation titled ‘The Welcome’, depicting a human figure emerging from the sea with open arms, reflecting Ras Al Khaimah’s values of hospitality and openness.
As the countdown to midnight began, the drone display transitioned into a synchronized fireworks show extending six kilometers along the coastline from Marjan Island to Al Hamra. The finale featured hundreds of fireworks launched in timed sequences, illuminating the shoreline in a coordinated display of color and sound.
Thousands of residents and visitors gathered at beachfront resorts, public viewing areas, and the New Year’s Eve Festival to witness the Ras Al Khaimah’ s epic celebrations, which also featured live stage performances and entertainment. Earlier in the evening, an additional fireworks display was held at Corniche Al Qawasim for families and local communities.
Phillipa Harrison, Chief Executive Officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said the New Year celebration was designed to unite the community while marking the emirate’s progress, adding that the event aimed to be shared by residents and visitors alike and to welcome the year ahead with optimism.
The record-setting event further reinforces Ras Al Khaimah’s position as a leading destination for major tourism events and large-scale public celebrations in the UAE.
