Dubai is gearing up to welcome 2026 with a large-scale New Year’s Eve celebration, led by the iconic show at Burj Khalifa. With an estimated 2.7 million people expected to move across the city, authorities have rolled out a detailed traffic and transport plan to keep celebrations safe and accessible.
The Roads and Transport Authority has confirmed phased road closures in and around Downtown Dubai, alongside extended public transport services, free shuttle buses, and more than 20,000 designated parking spaces.
Authorities are urging residents and visitors to plan ahead and rely on public transport wherever possible.
Phased road closures in Downtown Dubai
To manage crowds and traffic around Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, the following closures will be implemented on December 31:
From 4:00 pm
- Al Asayel Street
- Al Mustaqbal Street
- Lower Financial Centre Road
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
- Burj Khalifa Street
From 8:00 pm
- Al Multaqa (Al Mulook) Street
From 9:00 pm
- Upper Financial Centre Road
From 11:00 pm
- Partial closure of Sheikh Zayed Road
Motorists are advised to avoid the area during peak hours and use alternative routes.
48 fireworks shows across Dubai
This year’s celebrations will feature 48 fireworks displays at 40 locations across the emirate. Key venues include 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.
The wide spread of venues aims to reduce crowd density and improve safety citywide.
Dubai NYE 2026: Transport and parking highlights
Free public parking
- Available across Dubai on January 1
- Excludes multi-storey car parks and Al Khail Gate (N-365)
- Normal parking fees resume on January 2
Metro and Tram services
- Dubai Metro will operate non-stop for 43 hours during the New Year period
- Additional services at stations near celebration areas
- Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station may close from 5:00 pm if capacity is reached
- Commuters can use Financial Centre or Business Bay stations, both offering parking
Alternative parking
- Al Wasl Club
- Al Kifaf
- Dubai Mall and Zabeel parking
- Fountain View expansions
- Boulevard Lower
Parking is strictly prohibited on main roads near celebration zones.
Free shuttles, taxis, and buses
- Free shuttle buses will run from event areas to metro stations and parking locations after midnight
- Complimentary buses will operate from Swissôtel Al Murooj to Al Wasl Club and Al Kifaf
- Taxis will be available across key locations
Public bus updates
- Route E100 suspended from December 31 afternoon, resumes January 4
- Route E101 recommended for travel to Abu Dhabi
- Route E102 continues operating from 2:00 pm on December 31
- Schedules can be checked via the S’hail app
Marine transport
- Timings and updates are available on the RTA website
Public advisory
Authorities have reiterated the importance of planning journeys in advance, arriving early, using public transport, and following official guidance to ensure a smooth and safe New Year’s Eve experience in Dubai.
