Dubai has announced extensive road closures and a large-scale transport and security plan ahead of its spectacular New Year’s Eve 2025/26 celebrations, urging residents and visitors to plan their travel in advance and use public transport wherever possible.
With fireworks and celebrations planned at iconic locations such as Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, and Palm Jumeirah, several of the city’s busiest roads will be closed from 4pm on Wednesday, December 31, to ease congestion and manage crowds.
Road Closures from 4pm, December 31:
- Al Asayel Street
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
- Burj Khalifa Street
- Lower Financial Centre Street
- Al Mustaqbal Street (between Financial Centre intersection and Commercial Centre Street)
Additional Closures as the Night Progresses:
- 8pm: Al Sukook Street
- 9pm: Upper Financial Centre Street
- 11pm: Sheikh Zayed Road (between Al Maidaan intersection and Commercial Centre roundabout)
To support movement across the city, the Dubai Metro will operate for 43 consecutive hours, running from 5am on Wednesday, December 31, until midnight on Thursday, January 1. The Dubai Tram will run from 6am on December 31 until 1am on Friday, January 2, 2026. Authorities have also confirmed that more than 1,000 buses will be available, with many services offered free of charge to move revellers safely.
Dubai’s New Year’s Eve preparations involve a massive, coordinated operation across 55 government, semi-government, and private entities. Nearly 9,884 Dubai Police officers will be deployed, supported by patrol vehicles, bicycle units, marine rescue boats, and mounted patrols. Civil Defence, Dubai Municipality, DEWA, and medical teams are also on high alert, with 12 hospitals, field clinics, 236 ambulances, and nearly 2,000 medical staff ready to respond to emergencies.
Transportation logistics include 14,000 taxis, 1,300 public buses, and 107 Metro trains, managed by over 5,500 RTA personnel, while 13,502 private security staff and 18,000 luxury limousines will also be in operation.
The scale of the celebrations is equally grand, with 40 celebration sites and 48 fireworks displays planned across the city. Downtown Dubai will transform into a vibrant stage featuring fireworks, laser shows, drone displays, and Dubai Fountain performances, with some attractions continuing until January 7.
Burj Park returns as a popular viewing spot, offering a family-friendly experience with workshops, food trucks, live performances, and a grand parade. This year’s show includes a Bollywood-themed segment by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment. Tickets start at Dhs997.50 for adults and Dhs577.50 for children, with free entry for children under five. Free public viewing areas with LED screens will also be available across Downtown Dubai.
Authorities have advised residents and visitors to arrive early, follow official updates, and rely on public transport to ensure a safe and enjoyable New Year’s Eve celebration in Dubai.
