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
