For the first time, CNN will deliver multi-hour live coverage from Abu Dhabi as part of its annual global New Year’s Eve broadcast, which culminates in CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen.
The coverage will begin at 4.10pm Gulf Standard Time (GST) on 31 December 2025, as anchor and Managing Editor of CNN Abu Dhabi, Becky Anderson, welcomes New York City-based CNN anchor John Berman on his first visit to the emirate and reveals that she has arranged a series of challenges and adventures for him to experience during his trip.
In the lead-up to midnight, the pair will embark on a series of high-octane activities. At Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, on Yas Island, they will take on the world’s fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa, before trying out real Formula 3000 racing cars, live on air, at Yas Marina Circuit, home to the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
From the capital’s racing heart to the desert’s grand stage, the anchors will visit Liwa International Festival for adventure sports and unmissable cultural experiences, such as dune bashing and falconry. From there, Berman will set off on a scavenger hunt, taking in Abu Dhabi’s iconic cultural landmarks. Joined by a local guide, he will uncover ancient artefacts at the newly opened Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum and modern artistic expressions at the Louvre Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi.
From 9pm to 11.45pm GST, Anderson and Berman will host a special live show from under the stars at Saadiyat Nights, Abu Dhabi’s programme of open-air musical performances. They will be joined virtually by CNN correspondents around the globe as well as special guests, including dancing robots and local artistic talent. The show will also include live check-ins with the Sheikh Zayed Festival, which is attempting this year to break the Guinness World Record for the longest fireworks display.
The programme will complement CNN’s broader multi-platform New Year’s Eve coverage, which offers audiences a front-row seat to the biggest moments unfolding around the globe as the world steps into 2026.
