Top 25 NYE parties

Axwell at The Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa
When he last touched down in Dubai on NYE two years ago, renowned Swedish DJ Axwell, real name Axel Hedfors, saw his gig cancelled, along with every other party in town (to support those suffering in Gaza under Israeli attack at the time). This year, he’s hoping for better luck and is gearing up for something special. ‘It’s been a long time since I saw the people of Dubai,’ he says. ‘I think it’s time we connected again, to make it a memorable New Year’s Eve.’ For someone who’s worked the last six New Year’s Eves in a row, you can’t help but admire his enthusiasm, though the Swede admits there’s something in it for him too. ‘If you’re going to travel for new year, you have to go somewhere hot. Most of the time I’m either in Australia or Dubai – I’m not going to go to Alaska! I’m just playing music, so it’s pretty entertaining for me as well.’
Dhs550 per person; Dhs650 VIP with table reservation. Doors open 9pm. The Ballroom, Habtoor Grand Resort and Spa (050 718 6232)