CNN will broadcast live coverage from Abu Dhabi for the first time as part of its New Year’s Eve programming on December 31, 2025.
The coverage will begin at 4.10PM Gulf Standard Time, with Becky Anderson, anchor and Managing Editor of CNN Abu Dhabi, hosting alongside New York-based CNN anchor John Berman, who will be making his first visit to the emirate.
Anderson has organised a series of challenges for Berman during the broadcast, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said in a statement, adding that the anchors will visit Ferrari World Abu Dhabi on Yas Island, where they will ride the Formula Rossa roller coaster.
Becky Anderson and John Berman to host CNN New Year’s Eve show from Abu Dhabi
They will then drive Formula 3000 racing cars live on air at Yas Marina Circuit, the venue for the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
The pair will travel to Liwa International Festival, where they will take part in dune bashing and falconry. Berman will embark on a scavenger hunt of Abu Dhabi landmarks, accompanied by a guide.
The tour will include the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi.
From 9PM to 11.45PM GST, Anderson and Berman will host a show from Saadiyat Nights, Abu Dhabi’s programme of open-air performances.
CNN correspondents from around the world will join virtually, along with guests including dancing robots and performers. The broadcast will feature live segments from Sheikh Zayed Festival, which will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest fireworks display.
The Abu Dhabi coverage will form part of CNN’s multi-platform New Year’s Eve programming, which will conclude with CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen.
