Ras Al Khaimah, one of the UAE's northern emirates, kicked off 2026 with a spectacular fusion of technology and pyrotechnics.

The show's biggest technical highlight was a lifelike phoenix with wings of fire, created by over 2,300 drones, including 1,000 state-of-the-art 'pyro drones' igniting mid-air. A symbol of renewal, optimism and rebirth, the phoenix mirrors Ras Al Khaimah's own journey of transformation and its ambition to re-imagine the future. Guinness World Records has officially certified it as the world's largest aerial phoenix display formed by drones.

Another striking formation, called "The Welcome," created a human silhouette rising from the sea with open arms to reflect the emirate's warmth, openness and hospitality.

As the countdown to the New Year began, a grand fireworks display erupted, choreographed in waves along the coastline.

Phillipa Harrison, chief executive officer of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said, "This New Year's Eve celebration in Ras Al Khaimah is truly special. Not only because it's our biggest show yet, but also every part of it has been orchestrated with so much hard work and creativity."

Over the past seven years, New Year's Eve celebrations put up by Ras Al Khaimah have set 13 Guinness World Records.