The UAE ushered in the New Year in great style. It was just not the midnight special fireworks at the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai that was the cynosure of all eyes, but 2020 was also welcomed in all its glory by hundreds of peoples across other Emirates (“Hopes light up skies as UAE rings in Grand 2020”, Jan.1, Gulf Today).

From Abu Dhabi to Sharjah to Ras Al Khaimah, it was a night studded in spectacular pyrotechnics, laser shows as thousands filled up streets and outdoor venues to have a glimpse on the fireworks. Being a Sharjah resident, I and my family joined the hundreds while on our way to the Al Majaz waterfront to witness the show in the skies.

We had a marvelous time. The 10-minute long fireworks display had the crowds in splits. What made it even more stunning was that the surrounding sights along the corniche were bathed in multi-coloured hues when the fireworks light up the dark skies. Without doubt the whole show was choreographed to perfection. My wife and daughter were completely awestruck by the unique heart-shaped burst of colour.

But apart from the pyrotechnics, the police department needs to be commended for the way they streamlined and coordinated the smooth flow of not just the traffic but the multitudes that thronged the venue. The special section reserved for families was a relief. The Dubai Metro authorities also need a word of praise for running the services for 43 hours continuously starting from Dec.31 to midnight of Jan.2.  My prayer for the New Year and the new decade is to see peace reigns in the world.

Shashi Nair
By email