The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah rang in 2026 with a spectacular 15-minute drones and fireworks display, setting a new Guinness World Records title for the Largest aerial display of a phoenix formed by multirotors/drones.
A phoenix in the night sky
The centrepiece of the celebration was an awe-inspiring drone performance that transformed the night sky into a living canvas. At its heart was the record-breaking Phoenix—a mythical symbol of renewal, optimism, and rebirth—reflecting Ras Al Khaimah’s own journey of transformation and its ambition to continually reimagine the future.
Technology, scale, and storytelling
The display was brought to life by 2,300 drones, including 1,000 advanced pyro drones that ignited the Phoenix’s wings in a dramatic blaze of light as it soared above Ras Al Khaimah’s waterfront. The narrative continued with another striking formation titled The Welcome—a human figure rising from the sea with open arms, symbolising the emirate’s warmth, openness, and hospitality.
Fireworks across the coastline
Following the drone performance, a precisely timed countdown to midnight ignited a six-kilometre-long fireworks display stretching from Marjan Island to Al Hamra. Hundreds of fireworks erupted in choreographed waves, cascading along the coastline in a synchronised symphony of colour, sound, and light.
A night shared by thousands
Thousands of spectators across Ras Al Khaimah’s beachfront resorts and at the New Year’s Eve Festival enjoyed live stage performances and vibrant festivities, making it a memorable night for residents and visitors alike. Earlier in the evening, families across the emirate were also treated to an early fireworks display at Corniche Al Qawasim.
A celebration rooted in community
Commenting on the achievement, Phillipa Harrison, CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said, “New Year’s Eve in Ras Al Khaimah is about bringing people together. With this year’s show, we wanted to create a celebration that could be shared by our entire community and everyone visiting Ras Al Khaimah at this special time. While achieving a new Guinness World Records title is great, what truly matters are the memories created for those who celebrated with us. 2025 was a year of significant progress for Ras Al Khaimah, and tonight was about celebrating that and welcoming the new year with optimism and excitement for what is to come.”
