The year has pretty much flown by, and 2025 is now only a few months away. If you’re are looking to celebrate the New Year in an exotic location with near and dear ones, it’s advisable to start planning early. Here is our pick for the best locales to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Asia.
These destinations, spread across the culturally and geographically diverse continent of Asia, offer a mix of new and old ways of ringing in the New Year.
New Year Party Places in Asia
1. Singapore
Singapore is so serious about celebrating the New Year that even January 2nd is an off day for most people if the first day of the year falls on a Sunday! While that is true, rest assured that you will witness celebrations on the night of the 31st in all major areas of this city-state. You can head to locations like Marina Bay to witness fireworks or to Sentosa to attend parties and concerts. It is advisable not to miss the ‘Wishing Spheres’ ceremony at Marina Bay. A popular tradition in the Red Dot, these spheres carry the wishes of the people and are set afloat in the bay as a mark of positivity and hope for the New Year. The iconic Marina Bay Countdown is also expected to be grander than ever, with fireworks and special light shows.
Events in Singapore on New Year’s Eve: Esplanade New Year’s Eve Countdown, Siloso Beach Party, Aloha New Year’s Eve Party, The Promontory, Tanjong Beach Club, Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, and Singapore Flyer (for watching the fireworks).
2. Maldives
Looking for a blissful spot to ring in 2025? The Maldives is your go-to spot with abundant natural beauty enriched by the right measure of indulgence. Bask in the allure of its blend of pristine white sand beaches, overwater bungalows, clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking greenery. It’s New Years’ time so you can participate be part of extravagant festivities featuring fireworks, live shows, music, and gala dinners. Whether you wish to bid adieu to 2024 in the lap of nature or simply want to have the best of both worlds for your New Year’s Eve celebration, this stunning destination has it all!
Events at Maldives on New Year’s Eve: New Year Fireworks, Gala Dinner, and Special Parties (organized by popular hotels and resorts such as Sheraton Maldives New Year’s Eve Party)
3. Koh Samui, Thailand
This small island off the coast of Thailand has a lot to offer, especially for families with kids. There will definitely be fireworks and parties that you do not want to miss. But something special awaits you after the pyrotechnic shows have died down. Koh Samui takes pride in a tradition called ‘khom lhoy’. Here, the local Thais light up traditional lanterns and send them skyward, denoting a new start. This picture of midnight serenity is your Koh Samui special photo-op.
Events in Koh Samui on New Year’s Eve: New Year’s Eve Art-Rageous 2025 Secret Garden’s NYE Party 2025, New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner – Cliff Bar & Grill and X2 Koh Samui.
4. Osaka, Japan
If fireworks are a New Year’s Eve staple, Osaka might not be the best place for you. This Japanese city believes in welcoming the new in a more traditional manner. They prefer a quieter night, which includes visiting temples or shrines at midnight. While major tourist attractions might be closed due to the important holiday on January 1st, you can blend in with the locals practicing ‘Hatsumode.’ Additionally, you can also witness the Emperor’s Greetings or visit the Osaka Castle, which is open only for visitors during the New Year. With traditions so sanguine, Osaka is bound to make for an auspicious beginning to your New Year.
Events in Osaka on New Year’s Eve: Kita-Mido Temple Bell Ringing, Hatsumode festivities, Universal Studios Japan New Year’s Eve Countdown 2025, Umeda Sky Building Countdown, and HEP Five Ferries Wheel
5. Hong Kong
Hong Kong is known to all as the Special Administrative Region of China, but it is more than that! From the amazing firework displays and vibrant parades to the lavish New Year’s Eve parties and extraordinary brunch and dinner choices, Hong Kong is a full-on destination for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Asia. See the legendary Victoria Harbour Firework, join the exclusive fireworks cruise, be part of the Times Square Ball Drop, and, of course, be part of the wild NYE festivities.
Events in Hong Kong on New Year’s Eve: Victoria Harbour Fireworks, New Year’s Ball Drop at Times Square, and New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruise
6. Goa, India
Goa is considered India’s answer to the world’s party destinations. While that might be true, Goa has something for the quiet ones. North Goa is full of fireworks, parties, performances, and music all night. On the other hand, South Goa is your destination for countdown parties of a more reserved nature. Goa, precisely, has something for everyone, especially if you want to see the sun setting on a beach.
Events in Goa on New Year’s Eve: NYE 2025 at SinQ Night Club, Timeout 72 hours at Hill Top, New Year Bash 2025 at Holiday Inn Resort, New Year’s Secret Island Party, Bollywood Bangers at Planet Hollywood Beach Resort, and Full Moon Festival New Year’s Eve 2025.
7. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
If this list is about NYE destinations, it would remain incomplete without Dubai. With luxury brought to life, Dubai cannot go wrong with New Year’s celebrations. The Emirate is full of unbeatable party destinations and places when the clock strikes 12. You can stay outdoors to watch the most exquisite fireworks at Burj Khalifa, as well as other iconic spots such as Burj Al Arab, Global Village, etc. You can also groove to some of the catchiest beats indoors at their nightlife destinations. Make your celebration extra special by getting onto a yacht or a cruise and sailing down to the view of your choice. You won’t run out of options here.
Events in Dubai on New Year’s Eve: New Year’s Eve 2025 at Atlantis Dubai, NYE 2025 Yacht Party Gala Dinner at Dubai Marina, The Lotus Mega Yacht New Year’s Eve 2025 NYE, Burj Khalifa fireworks, Special Desert Safari, and Exclusive NYE Dhow Cruise at Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek.
8. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Wherever you are in Kuala Lumpur, it would be difficult to miss out on the fireworks. The city has provisions to light up the night sky and bid the past year goodbye. If you don’t mind the crowd, stay in KLCC Park to witness all the action. Or you can head to Bukit Bintang to be a part of their annual street party. There are also several rooftop bars across the city where you can enjoy the view and a meal.
Events in Kuala Lumpur on New Year’s Eve: New Year’s Eve Countdown Party with Fireworks at Crystal, 2025 – NYE Dinner Buffets at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, 2025 – Celebration of the Extraordinary, Countdown at Sunway Lagoon, New Year party at Helipad @ Heli Lounge Bar, etc.
9. Kuta, Bali
Breathtaking sunsets, exuberant parties, hip clubs and bars, and vibrant markets all make this coastal town on the Indonesian island of Bali a highly favored wild New Year’s Eve celebration. If you are looking for a bit of a laid-back alternative to it, head to Seminyak, where you can take in the fireworks at midnight, dine at one of its incredible dining venues, or sip a drink on the beach.
Events in Kuta on New Year’s Eve: Kuta Beach Party, NYE Fireworks Display and Seminyak Rooftop Bar NYE Party
10. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
One might not know a lot about Phnom Penh. However, that is precisely the reason to head here for a good time on the eve of the New Year. While the Cambodian New Year (Khmer) does not begin until sometime in April, Cambodians also celebrate the Gregorian New Year. Apart from pyrotechnics, there is delicious food and performances at venues across the city.
Events in Phnom Penh on New Year’s Eve: Events in Phnom Penh on New Year’s Eve: Kingdom of Wonder Gala Dinner at Raffles, Gala Dinner in the Phokeethra Grand Ballroom, Venetian Carnival at Hotel Cambodiana
11. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
This is a little different when New Year’s celebrations are considered. Although the fanciest and biggest party is on Vietnamese New Year, you can always drop by for a happy and prosperous Georgian New Year’s Eve. The stores and malls are closed for three days, but that doesn’t mean you must compromise on your entertainment. Hail and cheer at the countdown parties, enjoy high-spirited moments at rooftop bars (available at different budgets), fit into the crazy crowds at Nguyen Hue Walking Street, and admire the grand fireworks. Alternatively, you can celebrate it in the most unique ways: book the riverboat cruises, visit Ba Na Hills, tour pagodas, or discover the decorative shopping malls. Or you can simply stay at lavish resorts offering a perfect combination of games, great food, and endless entertainment options.
Events in Ho Chi Minh City on New Year’s Eve: New Year’s Eve 2025 Special Event at Saigon Princess, 2025 New Year’s Eve Party at Hard Rock Café, etc.
Try Our New Years Eve Party Outfits Ideas
Top Tips for Travel During the New Year’s Eve Holiday 2025
- Make sure you check for the travel guidelines (if any) before traveling to your favorite destination.
- Pre-reserve all aspects of your holiday and opt for accommodations, tours, etc., with a flexible cancellation policy and a refund.
- Take care of all safety measures throughout the trip.
- Ensure your vaccinations are completed well in advance of your trip (only if required), as most countries now require visitors to undergo both vaccinations to enter their territory.
Conclusion
In almost all cultures across the world, a new year signifies a new beginning. It is only fitting that we spend it in a way that not only honors the sentiment but also makes way for a brighter tomorrow. To ensure your celebrations remain hassle-free and pleasant, it is wise to plan your trip well in advance, including securing your travel and accommodation. Additionally, keeping an open mind towards the culture and practices of your destination will only enhance your experience. If you know of any happening Asian NYE destinations we missed, feel free to let us know in the comments
