Celebration Guide
Welcome to Ras Al Khaimah’s New Year’s Eve 2025 celebration! This guide provides all the essential information to ensure you can navigate, park, and enjoy the event responsibly at Al Jazeera Al Hamra (Al Marjan) as we usher in the New Year with style and safety.
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Download Celebration Guide
To enhance your experience at Ras Al Khaimah’s New Year celebration, we offer a downloadable guide in multiple languages. Select your preferred language to access essential information on parking, transportation, and event guidelines. You can also get assistance through our AI chatbot on the website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register to attend the New Year's Eve 2024 celebrations in Ras Al Khaimah?
No, registration is not required to attend the New Year's Eve celebrations.
Do I need to register for parking?
Yes, visitors must register for parking to help manage traffic flow. However, please note that registration does not guarantee a parking space, so plan to arrive early.
Is parking free, and do I need to book in advance?
Parking is free for everyone, however prior registration is required.
When is the last time to arrive at the parking locations?
To ensure smooth access, please arrive at the parking lots by 8:00 pm.
Where can I report lost items, missing children, or emergencies?
You can report any issues at security points in the area, visit the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Police Station, or call 999 for emergencies.
Can I watch the New Year's Eve fireworks from all parking lots?
Yes, fireworks are visible from Jais, Yanas. If you’re in Julphar parking lots, please proceed to designated viewing areas via pedestrian crossings.
How can I check live parking availability on the event day?
Live parking updates will be shown on the homepage of the event website. You can also ask our AI chatbot for real-time assistance.
Are there guidelines for using the parking lots?
Yes, follow instructions from event staff, keep the area clean, avoid leaving engines running, and refrain from using fireworks or loudspeakers. For full guidelines, refer to the 'Parking Guidelines' section.
Are public services available at all parking lots?
Yes, public services are available at all lots. Additionally, Jais and Yanas lots have DJ entertainment and food trucks.
Can I walk to the beach from the parking lots?
No, walking to the beach from parking areas is not allowed. Please remain within designated areas.
Are fireworks allowed in the parking areas?
Fireworks, barbecuing, and lighting fires are prohibited in parking areas to ensure everyone’s safety.
What is the RAK NYE Festival?
All visitors and residents are invited to join the RAK NYE Festival on December 31, 2024 – a free public event for the entire family that includes various entertainment options, including DJ entertainment, dedicated kids’ activities, food trucks and a section for bachelors and families. The RAK NYE Festival is a daylong celebration and provides the perfect location to witness the stunning fireworks display at midnight.
Where is the RAK NYE Festival located?
The RAK NYE Festival is a free-to-attend event – click here to view the location on Google Maps. It’s accessible by foot from all six designated parking areas including Jais Parking, Yanas Parking, and Julphar Main Parking (click here). Dhaya Parking, which serves as the caravan zone, is located directly opposite the festival, while Rams Parking, which includes BBQ and camping areas, is situated right next to the event location. All parking is free of charge.
Where can I BBQ?
BBQ is only allowed in the Al Rams Parking zone, which is equipped with designated BBQ areas and disposal bins for charcoal. Visitors must ensure they use these bins and avoid burying charcoal in the sand. This zone is family-friendly, providing a safe and comfortable environment for grilling. To use this area, make sure to register your vehicle online in advance.
Where can I camp?
For those bringing caravans or RVs, Dhayah Parking zone offers spacious camping facilities opposite the festival grounds. If you prefer tent camping, Al Rams Parking zone provides designated areas with access to BBQ facilities. Both zones are close to the event while providing a comfortable camping experience. Vehicle pre-registration is mandatory to ensure smooth entry and exit.
What time should I arrive to avoid traffic?
We recommend you arrive between 2pm and 5pm as the event gets progressively busier throughout the afternoon. Traffic congestion tends to peak closer to the event start time, and all roads leading to the venue will be closed by the police at 11pm. Early arrival also allows you to secure a prime spot for viewing the fireworks.
Where are the best places to view the fireworks?
The fireworks can be enjoyed from several vantage points, including the entire Marjan Island, the waterfront area between Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village, the RAK NYE Festival grounds, and parking zones like Dhayah, Jais, Yanas, and Rams. Each location offers a unique perspective, but arriving early ensures the best viewing experience.
Who is performing at the event?
This year’s RAK NYE will feature electrifying performances by renowned artists such as Mukhtaar (Arabic rap), Fahmil Khan Band (Bollywood music), and an DJ Bia – playing international music. The live entertainment will cater to a variety of musical tastes, with performances beginning in the evening and continuing until the fireworks display.
What time do the fireworks start?
The highly anticipated fireworks display will commence slightly before midnight. The show promises a spectacular blend of pyrotechnics, laser drone show and music, so ensure you’ve secured your spot well in advance.
Are there family-friendly activities at the festival?
Yes, the event includes a dedicated kids’ zone filled with activities such as face painting, interactive games, and live performances tailored for younger audiences. This ensures the entire family can enjoy a memorable evening.
Can I bring my pet to the event?
Although Ras Al Khaimah is a pet-friendly destination, for safety reasons and to ensure the comfort of all attendees, pets are not allowed at the RAK NYE Festival. The fireworks and large crowds may also be stressful for animals.
Will there be food and drinks available at the event?
Yes, a variety of food trucks and beverage stalls will be available throughout the festival grounds. From local Emirati delicacies to international cuisines, there’s something for every palate. There will also be a dedicated bar area where alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased. Please note that in addition to the RAK NYE Festival grounds, food trucks are also available at the Jais and Yanas Paking zones.
Is alcohol allowed at the event?
Yes. There will be a dedicated bar area at the RAK NYE Festival, where alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages can be purchased. Attendees are encouraged to enjoy the festivities responsibly.
Are there restroom facilities available?
Yes, portable restroom facilities are strategically placed throughout the festival grounds and in all parking zones for your convenience. These are regularly cleaned and monitored to ensure hygiene standards are maintained.
Is the event accessible for people with disabilities?
Absolutely. The event is designed to be inclusive, with wheelchair-accessible pathways, ramps, and dedicated parking spaces for people with disabilities. Assistance staff will also be available on-site to provide help if needed.
What should I wear to the event?
While there’s no formal dress code, it’s advisable to wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. As the event takes place outdoors, bring a jacket for cooler evening temperatures.
What happens if it rains or there’s bad weather?
The event will proceed as scheduled unless there are extreme weather conditions. In such cases, updates will be provided on the official RAK NYE website and social media channels. Be sure to check for any last-minute announcements.
What safety measures are in place for the event?
RAK NYE prioritises the safety of all attendees. Medical stations and security personnel will be on-site, and crowd management systems are in place to prevent overcrowding. Attendees are also encouraged to follow event guidelines and report any issues to the nearest information desk.
Can I fly drones during the event?
No, drone usage is strictly prohibited during the event to ensure the safety of attendees and to avoid interference with the fireworks display. Unauthorised drones will be confiscated.
Can I use ride-hailing services like Careem?
Yes, ride-hailing services are available. Drop-off and pick-up points are located near the event grounds to ensure easy access. These zones will be clearly marked on the event map.
Are there first aid services available?
Yes, first aid stations will be located throughout the festival grounds, staffed by qualified medical professionals. In case of an emergency, notify the nearest event staff or visit a first aid station.
Are there any world record attempts for this year’s fireworks?
Ras Al Khaimah is aiming to break a new Guinness World Record with its fireworks display, featuring cutting-edge pyrotechnic and laser drone technology. Keep an eye out for official announcements and updates during the event.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks to the designated parking zones. However, all BBQ activities must be conducted in designated areas, and waste must be properly disposed of in provided bins. Please note that external food and beverage are prohibited at the RAK NYE Festival grounds.
Is there an entry fee for the RAK NYE Festival?
No, entry to the RAK NYE festival grounds is free. However, certain activities or zones, such as dedicated kids' games, food trucks, a shisha zone, and a bar for purchasing beverages, are chargeable and require payment.
Are there hotels near the event?
Yes, several hotels around Marjan Island and Al Hamra Village offer special New Year’s Eve packages. Guests can enjoy direct access to the event and additional amenities like spa treatments and gourmet dinners. Check out the Visit Ras Al Khaimah website for a list of partner hotels and deals.
What are the best viewpoints for the fireworks and drone show?
The best viewing locations for the fireworks and drone show—if you're staying at one of the hotels on Marjan Island—are Rixos Bab Al Bahr, DoubleTree by Hilton Marjan Island, Mövenpick Marjan Island, and Hampton by Hilton Marjan Island. If you are not staying at a hotel on Marjan Island on 31 December and wish to view the fireworks and drone show from the comfort of your car, we recommend using the Jais or Yanas parking zones for a premium viewing experience. The fireworks and drone show will also be visible from the RAK NYE Festival and the adjacent parking zones, including Al Rams and Dhayah.
At what time does the fireworks and drone show start?
The fireworks and drone show will start a few minutes before midnight on 31 December.
Is there a call center if I have any questions?
Yes, there is. You can contact the call center by phone at +971 7 204 4070 or via the Chatbot. Call center operating hours: December 1 to December 22: 9: 00 AM to 9: 00 PM December 23 to December 31: 9: 00 AM to 11: 00 PM