9 super last-minute New Year’s Eve staycations across the UAE

As 2020 draws to an end, it’s time to celebrate. If you’re still looking for something to do on New Year's Eve, how about checking in to one of the country's hotels for a change of scenery? While some places are charging a lot more for an overnight stay on Thursday, December 31, others have lower rates and are still accepting bookings. If you're considering sneaking in a final staycation this year, here are some of the best hotel deals around the UAE to welcome 2021. Abu Dhabi residents who don't want to have extra Covid-19 tests after taking a staycation might want to consider a trip to Al Ain. The Garden City is part of the Abu Dhabi emirate, so no PCR tests are needed. The four-star Aloft Al Ain boasts funky rooms at very reasonable prices. The rooftop infinity pool is one of the highest in Al Ain and comes with great views of the oasis city. For New Year's Eve, the hotel is welcoming guests on to the rooftop to say goodbye to 2020 with live music until midnight. There’s also the option to book the unlimited beverages and bites package which starts from Dh199 per person. Rates start from Dh489 on December 31, excluding taxes; marriott.com Dubai's first 24-hour all-inclusive hotel has a minimum stay policy of two nights on December 31, so you can take a proper little mini-break at the Deira Islands hotel. The all-inclusive concept means no matter what time of day or night it is, you'll be able to get something to eat or drink somewhere in the hotel, handy after you welcome in the New Year. Beachfront Hotel Riu also has its own mini water park, two children’s pools and three large swimming pools for adults. Food, drink and activities on site are included in the room rate, so you can have a fun festive season without having to worry about what your final bill might read. Rates start from Dh3,325 for a two-night stay at New Year; riu.com Dubai's Palm Jumeirah is known for its firework displays at New Year. If you want to see the show, why not consider a stay at Dukes The Palm? Located opposite Nakheel Mall, the hotel has its own private beach complemented by a slow river and infinity swimming pool. The luxurious lobby sets the scene for an indulgent stay and rooms feature Instagram-worthy views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Marina. For New Year's Eve, there's the option of the Royal Buffet at the Great British Restaurant where there will also be a DJ and live music. Family-friendly celebrations await at Khyber where there are sharing-style platters, as well as party tunes and firework views. Rates from Dh2,696 including breakfast and taxes, additional charges for New Year dinner packages; barcelo.com Ajman is set to light the sky ablaze on New Year's Eve with not one but two firework displays at midnight. Get great views of the festivities by checking in to the Bahi Ajman Palace hotel. Fireworks aside, the hotel also has its own private beachfront, a huge swimming pool, on-site spa and family-friendly atmosphere. Rooms are spacious and have typical Arabic mashrabiya decor – opt for a sea-facing room to make the most of the shoreline location. The hotel is hosting a huge buffet dinner on New Year’s Eve to say goodbye to 2020 and in-house guests are welcome to join with no additional charges. Stays from Dh1,000 on a half-board basis; hmhhotelgroup.com Fewer than 15 minutes from Abu Dhabi city, but with a vibe that makes it seem like it's a world away, the St Regis Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi is gearing up for a big farewell to 2020. Stay in a gorgeously designed room that comes with private butler service, and enjoy the hotel's indoor lap pool, three outdoor swimming pools and pristine shoreline. The Buddha Bar Beach NYE celebration includes breakfast at Olea on New Year's Day and a four-course dinner on New Year's Eve at Buddha Bar Beach, inclusive of beverages and live entertainment. There's also the Sontaya New Year Celebration, which gives guests breakfast at Olea on January 1 and a four-course dinner with beverages at the stunning water-surrounded South-East Asian restaurant. Rates from Dh2,385 for the Sontaya package and from Dh3,040 for Buddha Bar; marriott.com Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers is gearing up for a host of New Year's Eve celebrations to welcome in 2021. With awesome views of the city and super spacious rooms and suites, the hotel also offers a private beach and three swimming pools, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness centre if you've overdone it over the festive season. On December 31, there are plenty of festivities to choose from, including brunch at Nahaam, a party at the recently reopened VaKaVa, or nibbles and drinks at The Observation Deck where you’re guaranteed the best views of downtown Abu Dhabi. Stays from Dh1,400 plus taxes, including breakfast and dinner. New Year's Eve party at Observation Deck carries a Dh150 surcharge for in-house guests, other venues have additional charges; hilton.com Rixos Saadiyat Island offers an all-inclusive staycation that comes with access to the hotel's New Year's Eve party. As well as a huge dinner feast, guests can enjoy a saxophonist, dancers and a performance from Chris Willis – best-known for his Gettin' Over You track with Fergie, David Guetta and LMFAO. Located in what is one of the capital’s most scenic spots, the hotel has its own water park, several swimming pools and a gorgeous shoreline with access to Saadiyat Island’s crystal-clear waters. There are eight restaurants and bars to choose from, and activities are also included in the rate, with paddleboarding, tennis and bicycle hire on offer. Relax by the beach – there’s a bar where you can get complimentary refreshments all day long – and have your pick of the swimming pools, from a chill-out infinity spot or a fun-filled aqua park. Rates from Dh1,726 plus taxes on New Year's Eve; rixos.com Ras Al Khaimah is planning to ring in the New Year with one of the world’s largest pyrotechnic performances and front-row seats are available for guests staying at Amwaj by Al Hamra. These serviced residences are spacious with plenty of space for living, dining and sleeping. Located in Al Hamra Village and Bab Al Bahr, there’s a private beach, swimming pools, children’s play areas, a yacht club and a golf club. Everyone booking a stay has complimentary access to the Clubhouse and a discount card that can be used at various restaurants in the complex. Week-long stays from Dh2,000; alhamra.ae Nestled in the Sharjah enclave of Kalba, the Kingfisher Retreat is an eco-focused site that is a peaceful place to bring in the New Year. The resort has 20 beautifully designed tents, each of which comes with a private pool, and is designed to reflect the country’s heritage. The main tent offers a communal space where freshly cooked food is served up daily, and fire pits offer pockets to cosy up in under the stars. Ecotourism is high on the agenda here. Located on the Gulf of Oman’s coast, it boasts stunning Indian Ocean views, while the nearby mangroves are home to a turtle breeding area, and ornithologists will enjoy the plethora of birds. The mountain-dotted backdrop offers a taste of adventure, with walking and hiking trails perfect for the first trek of 2021. One-bedroom sea view tent from Dh4,500 including breakfast, lunch and dinner but excluding taxes; myskhotels.com

9 super last-minute New Year’s Eve staycations across the UAE

From a bargain break in Al Ain to a front-row seat for the fireworks in Ras Al Khaimah, say goodbye to 2020 from these hotels