Dubai Gears Up for Spectacular New Year 2026 as Airfares and Hotel Prices Surge

Dubai is preparing to welcome 2026 in grand style, reinforcing its status as one of the world’s most sought-after New Year’s Eve destinations, even as airfares and hotel rates soar amid overwhelming demand.

Dubai is set to host one of its most extravagant New Year celebrations yet, with fireworks planned at 40 locations across the emirate and the iconic Burj Khalifa countdown once again billed as the “Brightest Show on Earth.” As excitement builds, the city has witnessed a sharp rise in travel and accommodation costs, particularly driven by visitors from India.

A significant influx of tourists from India, including Telangana, has arrived in Dubai to ring in the New Year away from home. Tour operators report that one-way airfares from Hyderabad to Dubai, which previously ranged between 500 and 600 dirhams, have surged to approximately 1,000–1,100 dirhams due to peak demand.

Hotel prices have also skyrocketed, reflecting the city’s packed festive calendar. Rooms that typically cost between 300 and 400 dirhams are now priced between 1,200 and 1,400 dirhams, with availability becoming increasingly scarce as New Year’s Eve approaches.

The highlight of the celebrations remains the breathtaking fireworks and synchronized laser shows across Downtown Dubai. The Burj Khalifa’s flagship countdown will feature high-intensity fireworks, choreographed laser displays and synchronized fountain performances, promising a visually stunning start to 2026.

Adding to the festivities, Burj Park will host week-long New Year events running until January 7. Frontstage, operated by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment, will present a Bollywood-themed celebration featuring parades and festival-style performances. Entry fees are set at 997 dirhams for adults and 577 dirhams for children.

Fireworks displays will illuminate the skyline at 40 locations, with 48 separate shows planned across major landmarks including Global Village, Atlantis The Royal, Expo City Dubai, Dubai Frame and several other destinations.

Meanwhile, the Dubai Shopping Festival, running until January 11, continues to draw crowds with major retail discounts, live performances, daily fireworks and innovative drone shows, transforming the emirate into a winter hub of entertainment and celebration.

Despite soaring costs, Dubai’s unmatched scale of festivities, entertainment offerings and iconic New Year spectacles continue to attract visitors from around the world, making it one of the most celebrated destinations to welcome the new year.