Officials urge visitors and residents to use public transportation and plan for an enjoyable New Year’s Eve.
Dubai is preparing to welcome the year 2026 by launching its Burj Khalifa fireworks. The authorities have developed a comprehensive traffic and transportation plan to handle the estimated influx of over 2.7 million tourists across the entire city.
In coordination with Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority, a series of road closures has been announced in Downtown Dubai beginning at 4:00 pm on Wednesday, December 31. These measures form part of an overall city plan that includes 48 fireworks shows at 40 different locations. The goal is to ensure public safety and smooth flow.
Road closures phased in Downtown Dubai
The RTA has announced that the roads surrounding the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall will be shut down in phases.
- After 4:00 pm: Al Asayel Street Al Mustaqbal Street, Lower Financial Centre Road, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Burj Khalifa Street
- After 8:00 PM:
Al Multaqa (Al Mulook) Street, Upper Financial Centre Road
- After 11:00 PM:
Closed Sheikh Zayed Road
Avoid Downtown Dubai at peak times and take alternative routes, such as Al Khail Road or Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.
Traffic advisories and key closures
- Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard is temporarily closed. Drivers are advised to use the diversion signs.
- Al Khail Road is recommended instead of Al Asayel Street.
- RTA advises motorists to plan their journeys and avoid Sheikh Zayed Road whenever possible.
Dubai Police reminds drivers to report minor accidents at ADNOC fuel stations, ENOC, and Emarat.
Metros, buses, and shuttles: Public transportation
The RTA improved public transport services to ease travel:
- Dubai Metro operates continuously over New Year’s for 43-hour-long.
- If capacity is exceeded, the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station could close at 5 pm. Commuters should use Financial Centre and Business Bay instead.
- Dubai Tram operates extended hours.
- Bus routes to the Burj Khalifa have been suspended. Passengers are being directed to take the Metro.
As part of the “Your Comfort is Important” campaign, RTA also provides free bus shuttles between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm. These buses depart from Al Omlaat Street, behind Swissotel Al Murooj, to Al Wasl Club or Al Kifaf.
JBR and coastal areas restrictions
Access for private vehicles at Jumeirah Beach Residence will be limited from 4 pm. The area has been designated as a pedestrian-only zone. On King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, only official taxis are allowed. E-hail and limousines are also restricted between 11 pm and 1:00 am. Access to Bluewaters Island is monitored and will close once the capacity has been reached.
After the JBR celebrations, three Metro stations that are within easy walking distance will be operational.
Travel and parking information
- Public parking is free in the city on 1 January. This does not include multi-storey garages and Al Khail Gate.
- Near major areas of celebration, more than 20,000 parking spaces are designated.
- On main streets near the event venue, parking will not be allowed.
The authorities also confirmed that the route E100 will suspend its bus service on December 31, afternoon, and resume it again on January 4. Route E101 should be used for Abu Dhabi.
Advice from the authorities
Dubai Police and RTA have urged visitors and residents to make travel plans early, use public transportation, follow official updates, and adhere to on-ground directions to enjoy a stress-free, safe, and smooth New Year’s celebration.
Dubai wants to make sure that 2026 starts smoothly on the busiest night of the year with extensive transportation services, phased closings, and increased policing.
