It’s finally in the horizon; the end of 2020 – a year that will largely live in infamy. If there’s ever been a time to let loose and celebrate it is on the 31st of December, 2020. We survived a pandemic, a global financial collapse, endless zoom calls, food shortages, rolling lockdowns, a disappointing ending to The Undoing…and yet nothing could stop us. That being said, there’s a lot of pent-up energy and are ready to party.
No one understands that urge better than the Emirates, and within them, no one better than Dubai. As the crown of the UAE, Dubai offers everything a visitor looking to celebrate the end of a crappy year could ever want; restaurants, clubs, beaches, bars, museums, amusement parks – anything you could dream of to keep you entertained.
All that choice might leave you a bit overwhelmed (especially after a year of few choices) so we have taken the time to filter out the very best places to enjoy New Years Eve and toast to a better 2021, have fun – and cheers to a new year!!
LPM (La Petite Maison)
First on the list is a firm local and international favourite, La Petite Maison (or LPM to the regulars). This upscale French bistro and bar in the DIFC is beyond just a regular eatery, on a normal night one can expect sublime meals being followed by raucous drinking and dancing, one can only imagine what that will be like on NYE.
This year LPM is embracing a circus theme for the night, guests are encouraged to dress appropriately and tuck into their signature foil gras, terrine, pan fired black leg chicken and champagne. To keep diners going there will be a DJ until the early hours.
Cost: AED 980 minimum spend per person.
At.mosphere, Burj Khalifa
Want to say you ended 2020 on a high? Look no further than the ‘Secret Brunch’ in the world tallest tower (standing at a dizzying 828 meters!) and the world’s highest restaurant (on level 123).
Start with a seven hour party ‘brunch’ with free flowing drinks, a nine course tasting menu and finish with a blast as you watch the impressive fireworks with the world’s best view of the entire city. Music and entertainment will keep you going until 1am, January 1st, 2021.
Cost: AED 3,000 per capita, including unlimited drinks and the nine course menu.
Bagatelle Dubai
One of the top party destinations in the city, Bagatelle brings the joie de vivre of Paris and the French Riviera to The Fairmont Dubai. Known for its lively DJ-led atmosphere, partying waiters and electric energy more than its food – this is a surefire win for New Years Eve fun.
Expect live music and entertainment, DJs, plenty of surprises and a late night. The venue preserves an elegant dress code throughout the year so make sure to don your very best for the night.
Cost: AED 550 first seating food only (6pm-9pm), AED 1,300 minimum spend per person second seating (9pm until late).
Zuma
Another DIFC stalwart (and a DDW favourite), Zuma is one of the very finest restaurants in the city and undoubtedly one of the best places to see in the new year. Demand for this popular dinning destination is high so they are offering two sittings, one from 7pm until 9pm and one from 9pm until the late hours. Expect DJs, cocktails, champagne and one heck of a party as revellers party until the sun comes up in ’21.
Cost: AED 1,000 minimum spend per person including drinks.
Akira Back Dubai
The W Hotels around the world were designed to be partied in and the W Dubai is no exception. Help the hotel fulfil its destiny by leaning into a lavish Asian inspired party at the W’s Akira restaurant; complete with a delicious feast (Japanese, Chinese and Korean fare), champagne, beers and wines.
The rooftop at Akira will guarantee some killer views of the world-famous fireworks and some festive fun.
Cost: AED 1,450 for indoor seating, AED 1,950 for preferred outdoor seating.
Maiden Shangahi
Instagram is any indication, 2020 has been the year of FIVE Palm Jumeirah with every celebrity and influencer imaginable being photographed there. Join the gang by seeing in 2021 with the Crazy Rich New Year at the hotel’s Maiden Shanghai Restaurant. Modern Chinese dishes will be paired with bottomless top notch spirits and champagne whilst a live band, entertainment and DJs play to a firework display background. If you miss this – you’re sure to get IG fuelled FOMO.
Cost: AED 1,000 in the first or second floor terrace or AED 1,250 for the premium Maiden Terrace.
DRIFT Beach Dubai, One&Only Royal Mirage
The more grownup and indulgent version of a NYE bash will be at DRIFT Beach within the glamorous One&Only Royal Mirage. Diners will be able to marvel at the incredible skyline views of Dubai whilst enjoying an elegant gala on the beach complete with dinner and an extensive wine list led by their award-winning sommerlier.
Cost : AED 2,250 including house drinks and one heck of a view.