As Dubai gears up to welcome 2026 with its iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks and celebrations across the emirate, authorities have unveiled a detailed traffic and transport plan to manage massive crowds and ensure smooth movement across the city.
With an estimated 2.7 million people expected to travel across Dubai on New Year’s Eve — including nearly 800,000 revellers in Downtown Dubai alone — the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced phased road closures starting as early as 4:00 pm on December 31.
The phased closure plan covers key roads around Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa area. From 4 pm, Al Asayel Street, Al Mustaqbal Street, Lower Financial Centre Road, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, and Burj Khalifa Street will be closed. Additional closures will follow throughout the evening, including Al Multaqa Street from 8 pm, Upper Financial Centre Road from 9 pm, and partial closure of Sheikh Zayed Road from 11 pm. Sheikh Zayed Road will be fully closed from 6 am on December 31 until 2 am on January 2, 2026.
To ease congestion, RTA has rolled out a comprehensive transport strategy, including a 43-hour non-stop Dubai Metro service, extended tram operations, free shuttle buses, and more than 20,000 designated parking spaces across the city. Authorities have warned that Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station may close from 5 pm if capacity is exceeded, advising commuters to use alternative stations such as Financial Centre or Business Bay.
Dubai will host 48 fireworks displays across 40 locations, including Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Festival City, Dubai Creek Harbour, Bluewaters, Burj Al Arab, Expo City Dubai, Global Village, Atlantis The Palm, and Palm Jebel Ali. Officials say this wide distribution of shows will help reduce crowd density and enhance public safety.
Free public parking will be available citywide on January 1, excluding multi-storey car parks and Al Khail Gate N-365, with normal fees resuming on January 2. Parking will be prohibited on major roads near celebration areas.
RTA will also operate free shuttle buses from event venues to metro stations and parking zones, with taxis available throughout the night. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to plan their journeys in advance, rely on public transport, and follow official guidance to enjoy a safe and seamless New Year’s Eve celebration.
