Dubai: the region's most famous fireworks
Two and a half hours from Riyadh, on a national ID. Book your hotel very early: rooms with views of Burj Khalifa sell out months ahead.
Istanbul: a magical winter atmosphere
Cold and sometimes rainy (around 10°), but the markets, cafés and the Bosphorus have a special charm in winter, and prices are lower than in summer. No visa needed.
Madrid: New Year the Spanish way
Madrid celebrates in Puerta del Sol, with mild winter weather (around 10° by day). A daily direct flight from Riyadh takes about 7 hours, and you'll need a Schengen visa, so apply early.
Baku: celebrations on the Caspian
A city lit up in winter, about 3.5 hours away, with no visa needed under the temporary waiver. It's cold (around 8°), so pack warm clothes.
Cairo: warmth and history
A mild winter (around 20°), many daily flights and no visa needed. Good for families, with the pyramids, the Nile and the Grand Museum.
London and Paris: a European New Year
Holiday lights and winter markets. London needs only an easy electronic authorisation, while Paris needs a Schengen visa, so start early. It's cold (around 8°) and the days are short.
Switzerland and Austria: New Year among the snow
Zermatt, Interlaken and Zell am See at their winter best, for families and honeymooners. You'll need a Schengen visa, and hotels are booked months ahead.
New Year tips
- Book your flight and hotel at least two months ahead.
- New Year's Eve dinner is compulsory and charged at many hotels, so ask about it when you book.
- Choose a hotel close to the celebrations, as transport stops that night.
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Published 5 October 2026, last updated 6 October 2026. The information is for guidance only; entry requirements and seasons can change, and the binding price is the one in your booking confirmation.