As 2025 draws to a close, people around the world — including those in Pakistan — are getting ready to ring in the new year on Thursday.

Due to different time zones in the world, 2026 will arrive at different times across the globe, with the first countries to celebrate the new year often stealing the spotlight.

The first to ring in 2026 was the small Pacific island nation of Kiribati, setting the stage for the rest of the world to start celebrations.

According to Pakistani time, 2026 began there at 3pm, while it was midnight on the island itself.

For this reason, Kiribati is recognised as the first host of the new year globally.

Following Kiribati, New Zealand welcomed the new year at 4pm Pakistani time, with spectacular fireworks displays lighting up the city of Auckland.

Shortly after, cities across Australia joined the celebrations, holding large-scale fireworks and public festivities.

In countries in Asia, including Japan and South Korea, traditional rituals and cultural events will mark the arrival of the new year.

Preparations are completed in Europe and the Middle East to welcome the new year.

The United States will be among the last regions to usher in 2026.

In New York City, Times Square is all set to welcome the new year, with the installation and testing of the iconic crystal ball to attract the crowd.

Millions are expected to attend the festivities in New York in person, while billions across the world will watch the celebrations via online platforms.