KABUL - When the clock struck midnight millions of people around the world celebrated the 2012 New Year event.
It was celebrated in Asia, Australia, US and Europe where the world's tallest building Burj Khalifa was illuminated in Dubai.

In Tokyo, a huge crowd of people gathered to look the release of helium balloons from Tokyo Tower at midnight, while a multi-million dollar firework was displayed in Sydney.

Thousands of people gather in Red Square in Moscow to witness a firework display at midnight, while heavy rain disrupted the celebration in Turkish city of Istanbul.

The main square in the Ukrainian capital Kiev was illuminated with an array of colorful lights and fireworks.

Thongs of people gathered at the Times Square in New York amid cheers, and launching fireworks.

Many people around the world wished a peaceful and prosperous year ahead.