Ras Al Khaimah rings in New Year with record-breaking show

Ras Al Khaimah ushered in the new year with a new Guinness World Record title for the largest aerial display of a phoenix, a mythical symbol of renewal and rebirth, created using 2,300 drones.

A total of 1,000 pyro drones were used to light up the phoenix's wings. 

The 15-minute drones and fireworks show transformed the sky into a series of animated formations above the emirate’s stunning waterfront.

The drone sequence also featured a second formation titled “The Welcome,” depicting a human figure rising from the sea with open arms, symbolising Ras Al Khaimah’s spirit of hospitality and openness.

As midnight approached, the drone show transitioned into a precisely timed fireworks countdown, culminating in a six-kilometre-long display stretching along the coastline from Marjan Island to Al Hamra. Hundreds of fireworks were launched in synchronised waves, lighting up the shoreline in a choreographed display of colour and sound.

Thousands of residents and visitors gathered across beachfront resorts and at the New Year’s Eve Festival to watch the celebrations, which also included live stage performances and entertainment throughout the night. Earlier in the evening, families in the emirate enjoyed an additional fireworks display at Corniche Al Qawasim.

Phillipa Harrison, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said the celebration was designed to bring the community together while marking a year of progress for the emirate. “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,” she said.