As one of the world’s most iconic destinations for New Year’s Eve celebrations, Dubai transforms into a bustling hub of excitement, with breathtaking fireworks, dazzling light shows and world-class events. However, the city-wide festivities also come with several road closures to ensure safety and seamless crowd management.
Whether you’re heading to the Burj Khalifa to witness the record-breaking fireworks or planning a quieter celebration, navigating Dubai’s streets during this time can be challenging. This guide provides you with all the essential information about Dubai’s road closures, alternate routes and transportation tips to help you plan your New Year’s Eve efficiently.
Road closures and timings
According to the Roads and Transport Authority’s traffic and transport plan, the following roads will be closed as part of Dubai’s 2025 New Year’s Eve security plan:
- Al Asayel Street, the stretch from Oud Metha Street towards the Burj Khalifa area, will close at exactly 4:00 pm.
- Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Burj Khalifa Street and Future Street will close starting from 4:00 pm as the parking spaces in these areas reach full capacity. Members of the public who have reserved places at establishments in the Boulevard area or Dubai Mall should arrive before 4:00 pm on Tuesday.
- Lower Financial Center Street will close at around 4:00 pm.
- On Upper Financial Center Street and Sukuk Street, traffic restrictions will begin at 8:00 pm.
Alternative routes
Sheikh Zayed Road will remain fully open until a partial closure takes effect at 11:00 pm. Alternatively, the public can use Jumeirah Street, Al Wasl Street, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Al Khail Road.
How to reach celebration sites
If you are spending New Year’s Eve in Dubai, you can reach the celebration sites either by private vehicles or by using public transportation. The Dubai Metro is a convenient option considering there might be road closures in the areas surrounding the designated celebration sites. It is advisable to head to the venues early before road closures take effect to avoid traffic congestion and ensure a comfortable, safe, and secure experience.
The Dubai Metro‘s Red and Green lines will operate continuously for 43 hours from 5:00 AM on December 31, 2024, until midnight on January 1, 2025. Dubai also allocated 260 buses to transport guests to key locations, 20 of which are double-deckers and 240 are standard.
The E100 bus route from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station will be suspended from December 31 to January 1. Passengers can use Route E101 from Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Abu Dhabi during this period. The E102 bus route from Al Jafiliya Bus Station will also be suspended during this time. The RTA advises passengers to use the same route from Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Shabiya Musaffah during this period.
To avoid road closures on New Year’s Eve, Dubai visitors can also ride Water Taxis, the Dubai Ferry, Abras or Tourist Trips to reach their destinations. You can check their operating hours here.
Where to park your car
Park your vehicle in one of the designated parking areas so that you can enjoy the events and festivities undisturbed. Be mindful of others’ safety and comfort while parking your vehicle. Avoid parking in the middle of the road, which causes traffic obstruction and inconvenience to others.
The city will increase parking availability with 900 additional spaces in key areas. Al Wasl Club will have 500 additional spaces and Al Jaffiliya will have 400, with shuttle buses running from 3:00 PM.
In line with its 2025 New Year’s Eve security plan, Dubai will also monitor traffic lights near major in real-time and pedestrian routes to buses and metro stations will be clearly marked. Smart screens will also alert drivers about road closures and alternative routes.
Transportation tips for New Year’s Eve in Dubai
- Use public transport: Dubai’s Metro and buses are your best bet for getting around on New Year’s Eve. The Metro has extended its operating hours, allowing you to travel conveniently even after midnight. Plan your journey early and anticipate larger crowds at popular stations.
- Arrive early: Roads near major event venues may close hours before midnight. To avoid being stuck in traffic or in restricted areas, arrive at your destination ahead of time.
- Consider walking: For short distances, walking might be the quickest and most practical option.
- Plan your exit: After midnight, expect significant delays as everyone heads home simultaneously. Familiarize yourself with multiple exit routes and consider waiting for the crowds to thin out before leaving.
- Stay updated: Keep an eye on announcements from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority regarding road closures and Metro schedules.
