New Year’s Eve around the world

If you’re planning to be in any of these big cities on December 31, here are the best ways to celebrate.

New Year's Eve fireworks over the Opera House and Harbour bridge, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Getty Images

Sydney, Australia

If you are visiting Australia's harbour city, you must stick around for New Year's Eve to catch the world-famous fireworks show at Sydney Harbour. Visit www.sydneynewyearseve.com for a map of the best vantage points, and get there early to snag a good spot.

New York City, United States

If you're in New York on New Year's Eve, naturally you'll want to watch the iconic ball-drop ritual at Times Square – and if you're looking for the full New York party experience, consider purchasing a ball-drop pass, which gives you access to tonnes of parties in and around the area. From Dh950 at www.balldrop.com.

London, United Kingdom

The fireworks above the River Thames attract thousands of visitors, and are so popular that tickets are now required to gain access to the best viewing spots: Victoria Embankment between Westminster and Embankment Underground stations, Victoria Embankment between Embankment and Temple Underground stations, Southbank behind the London Eye and Westminster Bridge. Tickets cost from Dh56 at www.seetickets.com.

Moscow, Russia

Located in the heart of the city, Red Square offers prime fireworks views on New Year’s Eve. It’s sure to get very packed in the evening, so it’s a good idea to get there early. But the wait will be well worth it to witness the grand spectacle of lights over Lenin’s Mausoleum, the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Place du Casino in Monte Carlo is the place to be if you’ll be in Monaco on the night of December 31. Alessandro Ristori & the Portofinos will be performing at the square prior to the majestic fireworks exhibition. Stays at Hôtel Hermitage or The Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort come highly recommended.