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Dubai ready for New Year’s Eve 2026: Road closures, 48 fireworks shows and 43-hour Metro service

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Dubai authorities have confirmed full readiness for New Year’s Eve 2026, with security, traffic management and public services working together to ensure a safe and seamless experience for residents and visitors.

From staged road closures and round-the-clock public transport to fireworks across dozens of locations, officials have urged the public to plan and follow instructions on the night.

Road closures in Downtown Dubai

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced phased road closures in and around Downtown Dubai:

  • From 4pm:
    Al Istiqlal Street, Al Mustaqbal Street, Lower Financial Centre Road, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Burj Khalifa Street
  • From 8pm:
    Al Multaqa (Al Mulook) Street
  • From 9pm:
    Upper Financial Centre Road
  • From 11pm:
    Partial closure of Sheikh Zayed Road
  • Full closure of Sheikh Zayed Road:
    From 6am on December 31 until 2am on January 2, 2026

Motorists are advised to plan journeys in advance and use alternative routes where possible.

43 hours of non-stop public transport services

To ease movement across the city, the Dubai Metro will operate non-stop for 43 hours, with additional services at key New Year’s Eve stations, including:

  • Emirates Towers
  • Financial Centre
  • Business Bay
  • Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

Authorities have strongly encouraged residents and visitors to use public transport and avoid driving in crowded areas.

48 fireworks planned across the city

Dubai has approved 48 fireworks displays across 40 locations, offering wider geographic coverage than last year to help reduce crowd density while maintaining safety.

Key fireworks locations include:

Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Frame, Expo City Dubai, Global Village, Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters (The Beach – JBR), Al Seef, Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Hatta, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, City of Jumeirah, Marsa Al Arab, Al Marmoom Desert, Arabian Ranches Golf Club, Town Square – Nshama, Emirates Golf Club, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Bvlgari Resort & Residences, Five Palm Jumeirah, One&Only Royal Mirage, One&Only The Palm, Four Seasons Jumeirah Beach, Palazzo Versace Dubai, Nikki Beach Resort & Spa, and Voco Monaco Hotel – The World Islands.

Safety remains top priority

Khalifa Ibrahim Al Sulais, CEO of the Security Industry Regulatory Agency (SIRA), said the authority plays a key role in ensuring the smooth and safe execution of the celebrations.

“From issuing permits to full on-site supervision, our approach is proactive. We ensure that all sites are fully prepared, that companies adhere to approved quantities, and that every stage of the display is executed safely,” he said.

He added that close coordination with security authorities and partners is central to Dubai’s reputation for hosting safe, world-class celebrations.

SIRA has also reminded the public to follow all safety instructions, including:

  • Avoiding restricted areas, such as launch zones
  • Maintaining safe distances from fireworks displays

With preparations in full swing, Dubai is set to welcome 2026 in spectacular style, offering residents and visitors a safe and unforgettable New Year’s Eve across the emirate

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

India

Waiting for Indian passport services in the UAE? Here’s the latest update

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Indian nationals in the UAE will have to wait a little longer for regular passport, visa and attestation services to resume.

The Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate General of India in Dubai have announced that they will continue offering only emergency consular services until July 1, extending the temporary suspension of routine services by an additional day.

In a post on the missions’ official X account, the embassy said emergency requests for passports, visas, attestation and other consular services will continue to be processed during the transition period.

Why the delay?

The extension comes as the Indian missions complete the handover of outsourced passport, visa and attestation services to Alhind Tours and Travel LLC, which is set to begin operations in the UAE from July 1.

Under the transition plan, previous service providers BLS International and SGIVS Global stopped accepting new applications after June 25, while regular appointments were suspended from June 26.

The missions said the extension is due to administrative reasons.

Need urgent assistance?

Applicants with emergency requirements can contact the Indian missions through:

The embassy said details about the resumption of normal services from July 2 onwards will be announced separately and advised applicants to follow its official social media channels for updates.

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Business

UAE fuel prices drop sharply: Here’s what you’ll pay from July 1

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Motorists across the UAE will pay significantly less at the pump from July 1 after the UAE Fuel Price Committee announced a sharp reduction in petrol and diesel prices for July 2026.

All fuel grades have become cheaper compared to June, with Super 98 falling by 55 fils per litre, while diesel has dropped by 73 fils per litre.

All fuel grades have become cheaper compared to June, with Super 98 falling by 55 fils per litre, while diesel has dropped by 73 fils per litre.

Fuel prices for July

  • Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre (down from Dh3.95)
  • Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre (down from Dh3.83)
  • E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre (down from Dh3.76)
  • Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre (down from Dh4.33)

The new rates take effect on Tuesday, July 1, 2026.

The UAE Fuel Price Committee reviews retail fuel prices every month, with rates adjusted in line with movements in global oil and energy markets.

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Announcements

Dubai to build region’s first falcon market and transform the creek into night-time destination

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Dubai is set to welcome a one-of-a-kind falcon market and a spectacular new lighting experience along Dubai Creek after Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved a series of major development projects aimed at enhancing the city’s cultural, tourism and public spaces.

The new initiatives, announced by Dubai Municipality, include the Dubai Falcon Market, the first integrated falcon market of its kind in the region, and the Dubai Creek Lighting Project, which will transform one of the city’s oldest landmarks into a vibrant night-time destination.

Region’s first integrated falcon market

Designed to celebrate the UAE’s rich falconry heritage, the Dubai Falcon Market will combine tradition with modern architecture inspired by the wings of a falcon.

Spanning around 50,000 square feet and built at an estimated cost of Dh50 million, the market will feature specialist falcon shops, equipment stores, cultural exhibition spaces, heritage events, a dedicated veterinary clinic and visitor experiences, all within a purpose-built destination showcasing one of the country’s most treasured traditions.

The project also forms part of Dubai’s wider strategy to develop rural and desert areas while preserving Emirati heritage and creating new attractions for residents and tourists.

Dubai Creek to shine with new night-time experience

Dubai Creek, one of the emirate’s most historic waterfronts, is also set for a major makeover.

The Dubai Creek Lighting Project will introduce an innovative lighting system stretching across 8km of the creek, illuminating promenades, heritage markets, waterfront walkways, building façades and key entry points.

The aim is to transform the area into a lively evening destination while highlighting its architectural and cultural significance.

Once completed, visitors can expect enhanced pedestrian areas, interactive public spaces and a striking visual experience designed to bring new life to the historic district after sunset.

The project is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

Commenting on the projects, Sheikh Hamdan said Dubai remains committed to developing people-focused urban spaces that combine innovation, sustainability and advanced technology while preserving the emirate’s identity and cultural heritage.

The latest initiatives form part of Dubai’s long-term vision to create world-class public spaces, strengthen the tourism and creative sectors, and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

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