The Maldives marked the start of 2026 with a pyro drone show and fireworks display at Central Park in Hulhumalé, drawing large crowds from across the Greater Malé region on Wednesday night.
The celebration began at 21:00 with a 15-minute drone show featuring the story of a child. The display used about 600 drones and 75 pyro drones. The final formation showed President Mohamed Muizzu, which prompted criticism from some attendees.
A five-minute fireworks display followed at midnight to officially welcome the new year. Thousands gathered at the park, filming the event and taking photographs as fireworks lit up the area. A live music show was also held as part of the festivities.
Resorts across the country held their own New Year celebrations. Fireworks and music shows took place at properties nationwide, with the celebrations visible and audible across many parts of the Maldives.