Every New Year's Eve, the UAE pulls out all the stops with its elaborate celebrations and this year was no exception.
In Ras Al Khaimah alone, two new Guinness World Records were set using drones and fireworks for a breathtaking display of light and sound. The first record was for the largest drone tree formation in history while the second record was for the most distant aerial projection of an image - both achieved flawlessly during the show.
To complement these stunning displays, traditional fireworks were combined with futuristic 3D drone artistry that spanned over five kilometers along the waterfront area of Ras Al Khaimah.
According to Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, securing not one but two prestigious Guinness World Record titles is a testament to the creative drive and cultural pride the emirate embodies.
The emirate's annual New Year's Eve celebration was appropriately dubbed "Tales from the Sky," showcasing a collection of cultural icons that narrate Ras Al Khaimah's rich history, including its thriving ecosystem, pearl diving heritage and storied seafaring past. According to organisers, over 100,000 locals and tourists attended the event.
One attendee beamed, "It feels fantastic to return to this beautiful Emirate." In Grucci's view, the event represents a pinnacle of pyrotechnic artistry," he remarks, highlighting its singular status among annual celebrations worldwide. The integration of drone technology has significantly enhanced the display's overall impact and visual appeal." This collaboration between American (Grucci) and British (Sky Magic) firms is indicative of the innovation and international cooperation that characterizes modern spectacles like this one.
The emirate boasts an impressive track record when it comes to breaking New Year's Eve world records. To welcome 2024, it clinched records for the longest chain of aquatic floating fireworks, spanning 5.8km, and the longest straight-line drone display with a total length of 2km.
As Phillips notes, this year's show marks the sixth consecutive attempt at securing two Guinness World Records titles. As a professional writer, I interpret the statement "Our aim is position Ras Al Khaimah as a destination that consistently breaks new ground in creativity and innovation" to mean that the emirate's tourism board is determined to raise its profile by showcasing unique attractions and experiences that set it apart from other destinations.
In a similar vein, the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi impressed visitors with an epic 53-minute fireworks display that was uninterrupted throughout, leaving those who witnessed it awestruck and eager for more. Last year at the venue, the event extended by 13 minutes when it set four global records for duration, quantity and design.
To ring in the new year of 2023, Sheikh Zayed Festival shattered three records, including the most firework pinwheels lit with 150 and the most girandola (spiralling) fireworks launched within 30 seconds with 92. The event organizer aimed to shatter six records this year, but as of now, they have not yet confirmed if these targets will be met. Despite their ambitious plans, the venue's performance remains uncertain at press time.