Dubai Marina: New Year’s Eve boat tour with fireworks

Summary

Ringing in the new year from a yellow boat under Dubai’s fireworks

You’ll board a Yellow Boat in Dubai Marina with a local guide and cruise past Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al-Arab as fireworks burst overhead at midnight. Blankets keep you cozy while you watch the show and snap photos with help from the crew. It’s an unforgettable way to welcome the new year — one you’ll remember long after the last spark fades.

What’s the experience like?

I still remember the way the air felt out on Dubai Marina that night — not cold exactly, but sharp enough that I was grateful for the blanket they handed me as we climbed onto the Yellow Boat. The city lights were already buzzing, and our guide (I think his name was Samir?) grinned as he passed around bottled water and made sure everyone had their lifejacket sorted. There was this weird mix of excitement and calm, like everyone was holding their breath for midnight but also just soaking up the moment.

We drifted past Palm Jumeirah, and Samir pointed out Atlantis all lit up — honestly, it looked unreal against the black water. He told us little bits about each place as we went by, nothing scripted or stiff, just stories he’d picked up from years of doing these New Year’s Eve boat tours. At one point, someone asked if you could see all three fireworks shows at once (Atlantis, Burj Al-Arab, Palm), and he laughed and said you’d need eyes on both sides of your head for that. The sound of people chatting mixed with distant music from shore — I caught a whiff of something sweet from another group’s snacks and instantly wished I’d brought some dates or baklava.

Midnight came fast. Suddenly the sky over Burj Al-Arab exploded in color — reds first, then golds that seemed to hang forever before fading into smoke. Everyone scrambled for photos (the crew actually helped snap a few so no one missed out), but there were these quiet seconds when nobody said anything at all. Just light everywhere and the feeling that you’re exactly where you’re supposed to be. I didn’t expect to feel so connected to strangers or to Dubai itself in that moment. Even now, thinking back, it feels kind of surreal… in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — New Year's Eve Fireworks Tour

• Fireworks at Atlantis Hotel
• Fireworks at Burj Al Arab
• Fireworks at Palm Jumeirah

Top questions

Is this New Year’s Eve boat tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, both transportation options and the boat are wheelchair accessible.

What landmarks will we see during the tour?

You’ll see Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis Hotel, and Burj Al-Arab Jumeirah.

Are blankets provided on board?

Yes, complimentary blankets are provided for use on board and to take home.

Is there commentary during the boat ride?

Yes, your personal guide will share commentary about sights along the route.

Will someone help take photos during the fireworks?

Yes, photo opportunities are included and crew can assist with pictures.

Is bottled water included?

Yes, bottled water is provided for all guests on board.

Are lifejackets required?

A lightweight lifejacket is provided for each guest to wear during the tour.

Can pregnant travelers join this tour?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Dubai Marina.

What’s included

Your evening includes pickup at Dubai Marina where your personal guide welcomes you aboard with bottled water and lightweight lifejackets; cozy blankets are handed out (and yes, you get to keep them), plus there’s plenty of time for photos as you cruise past Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al-Arab under the New Year’s fireworks before heading back ashore.