From dazzling fireworks over Dubai to cautious optimism in Damascus, major cities across the Middle East welcomed the start of 2025 with celebration and reflection in a year of conflict and hope.
Damascus, Syria
In Damascus, citizens welcomed the New Year with cautious optimism following the recent fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government. The streets, though scarred by conflict, buzzed with hope as people expressed their desire for peace, security and freedom of expression, marking a potential new beginning for the country.
Beirut, Lebanon
New Year celebrations in Beirut were subdued, reflecting the country’s ongoing economic crisis and recent conflicts. Despite a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, the atmosphere remained tense. Residents gathered in small groups, expressing hope for stability and economic recovery in the coming year.
Dubai
Dubai continued its tradition of hosting one of the world’s most spectacular New Year celebrations. The city hosted more than 45 fireworks displays at 36 iconic locations, including the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, where a synchronised light and drone show captivated thousands of spectators. Public transport managed the influx of people efficiently, with more than 2.5 million passengers using services during the festivities.
Gaza, Palestine
In Gaza, the new year was marked by sombre reflection. Having faced immense loss and devastation throughout 2024, residents expressed despair and uncertainty about the future. Many found it difficult to be optimistic, anticipating further hardship in 2025.
Kobani, Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES)
Kobani (Kobanê), a town in north-eastern Syria, faced heightened tensions as Turkish-backed groups advanced in the region. Despite the looming threat, residents held a modest gathering to underline their resilience and hope for peace in the new year.
Doha, Qatar
In Qatar, Lusail Boulevard became the focal point of the New Year celebrations, attracting some 300,000 visitors. Locals, residents and tourists enjoyed the festivities, highlighting the city’s growing importance as a cultural hub.
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo’s nightlife came alive with a series of high-profile events. Notably, Mövenpick Media City hosted performances by renowned artists Wael Jassar and Nawal El Zoghbi, attracting large crowds. Other venues across the city featured live music, dance performances, and special menus, offering a variety of options for residents and visitors to celebrate in a city facing economic challenges, and ongoing political repression.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
In Riyadh, the New Year was celebrated with a fusion of traditional and contemporary events. The city hosted cultural performances, fireworks, and family-friendly activities, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s evolving social landscape. The festivities were part of the broader Vision 2030 initiative, aiming at enhancing the quality of life and entertainment options in the Saudi Arabia.
Tehran, Iran
In Tehran, New Year celebrations were notably subdued due to ongoing economic challenges and political tensions. While public festivities were limited, many residents gathered in private settings to reflect on the past year and express hopes for a better future.
Istanbul, Turkey
In the metropolis of Istanbul, a large crowd welcomed the new year in Taksim Square and Istiklal Street, the hub of annual celebrations on the European side of the province. These celebrations went ahead in the context of the growing repression of Kurdish people, as well as other religious and ethnic minorities under the rule of president Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
