Dubai authorities have confirmed full readiness for the New Year’s Eve 2026 celebrations, unveiling a comprehensive security and operations plan aimed at ensuring public safety, smooth mobility and uninterrupted services across all major celebration zones.
Speaking at a press briefing held at Dubai Civil Defence headquarters, the Event Security Committee said the preparations underline Dubai’s standing as a leading global destination for New Year festivities. The plan brings together security, operational and service measures designed to manage large crowds while keeping the city moving.
Large-scale security and emergency deployment
As part of the plan, 9,884 personnel from Dubai Police will be deployed, supported by 1,625 security patrols and 36 bicycles to ensure fast response in high-density areas.
Marine and coastal areas will be covered by 53 rescue boats, 34 rescue platforms and 37 support tents. Civil defence operations will be reinforced by 1,754 personnel and 165 fire engines on standby.
Medical readiness includes 635 paramedics and 236 ambulances, supported by 12 hospitals and clinics near key celebration zones. In addition, 1,900 medical professionals, 3,475 Dubai Municipality staff and 13,502 private security personnel will assist throughout the night. Around 18,000 limousine vehicles have also been allocated to meet transport demand.
Transport, traffic and crowd control measures
To manage crowd movement, authorities have allocated 107 Metro trains, 1,300 public buses and 14,000 taxis. A total of 5,565 staff from the Roads and Transport Authority will oversee traffic flow and access to event areas.
Operations rooms will operate around the clock, with emergency numbers 999, 901 and 998 available for immediate response.
Dubai Ambulance steps up readiness
Dubai Ambulance has positioned 635 personnel and 236 coverage points across Dubai and Hatta. Resources include specialised ambulances, rapid response units, electric and pedal bicycles, golf carts, field support teams, marine rescue boats and two ambulance buses. Air ambulance services will also be available in coordination with Dubai Police.
Teams will be stationed at high-density areas, coastal locations, tourist attractions, fireworks sites and desert venues to ensure quick medical response.
Fireworks across 40 locations
Authorities have approved 48 fireworks displays at 40 locations across the emirate, including Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, 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 said the wide distribution of fireworks is intended to reduce crowd congestion while maintaining safety and smooth movement across the city. Residents and visitors have been urged to follow safety guidelines and official instructions.
Phased road closures announced
The RTA has announced staged road closures 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
A full closure of Sheikh Zayed Road will be in effect from 6am on Wednesday, December 31 until 2am on Friday, January 2, 2026. Motorists are advised to plan ahead and use alternative routes.
Metro services extended
Dubai Metro services will operate with increased frequency at stations near major celebration areas, including Emirates Towers, Financial Centre, World Trade Centre, Business Bay and Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall.
Authorities have called on the public to use public transport where possible, stay informed through official RTA channels and cooperate with on-ground teams to ensure a safe and orderly start to the New Year.
