Mleiha National Park welcomes 2026 with ‘New Year Under Stars’

December 17, 2025 / 10:53 AM

Sharjah24: Mleiha National Park, Sharjah’s iconic desert destination for adventure and heritage, invites individuals, families, and explorers to welcome 2026 through an immersive stargazing experience titled “New Year Under the Stars’. The celebration features an overnight programme of astronomy, camping, heritage-inspired entertainment, and authentic Arabian hospitality.

The event runs from 6:00 p.m. on 31 December 2025 to 8:00 a.m. on 1 January 2026, featuring a desert countdown, guided stargazing sessions led by expert astronomers, live artistic performances, and a welcoming atmosphere designed to create unforgettable memories under the vast desert sky.

Celebration in a UNESCO-listed natural landscape

Set amidst the dramatic landscape of the newly UNESCO-listed Al Faya site, guests will enjoy a fully equipped camping experience that includes comfortable tents, sleeping bags, and air mattresses. The programme features welcome appetisers, a special New Year’s Eve dinner buffet, and a continental breakfast.

Omar Jasim Al Ali, Director of Mleiha and Strategic Projects, stated that the celebration links history, nature, and community, offering “a magical night that brings people together beneath a dazzling sky, accompanied by live music, cultural showcases, and the spirit of exploration.”

Astronomy meets art in a night of festive discovery

The evening starts with an astronomy session led by Mleiha’s expert team, offering stunning telescope views of planets and distant celestial bodies. Guests will also enjoy live oud music, a tanoura dance performance, and a spectacular fire show accompanying the midnight countdown, culminating in a dazzling display of lights to welcome 2026.