Ras Al Khaimah sets Guinness World Record with phoenix drone display
Ras Al Khaimah welcomed 2026 with a spectacular 15-minute drone and fireworks show that earned the Guinness World Record for the largest aerial display of a phoenix formed by drones. The performance reinforced the emirate’s growing reputation as a global destination for creative and visually striking New Year’s celebrations.
The show featured a phoenix — a symbol of renewal and optimism — rising above the waterfront, created by 2,300 drones, including 1,000 pyro drones that illuminated its wings in motion. The visual narrative reflected Ras Al Khaimah’s own transformation and ambition to shape a modern, future-focused tourism destination. The display also included a formation called “The Welcome,” depicting a figure with open arms, symbolising hospitality and inclusivity.
The drone sequence was followed by a large-scale fireworks display stretching six kilometres from Marjan Island to Al Hamra, lighting up the sky with synchronised colours and patterns. The celebrations were designed as a community-wide event, bringing together residents, families and visitors through live performances, festive activities and cultural programmes.
The achievement adds to the emirate’s track record of record-setting New Year’s events and reflects its strategy of combining technology, creativity and tourism development. Ras Al Khaimah aims to continue strengthening its position as a distinctive and experience-driven destination, with the success of the 2026 celebration expected to attract even more international visitors in the years ahead.
