Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a comprehensive traffic and transport plan to accommodate the thousands of visitors expected to flock to the city for New Year’s Eve (NYE) celebrations.
To accommodate the influx of visitors, the RTA is advising the public to use public transportation wherever possible.
The RTA has released its schedule for services during the NYE celebrations.
Read: NYE 2025: Watch fireworks at these spots in the UAE
Service Provider Centres (vehicle testing) and Customer Happiness Centres will be closed on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, and will resume regular working hours on Thursday, January 2.
Dubai Metro timings
December 31, 2024: From 5am to 11:59pm.
January 1, 2025: From 12 midnight to 11:59pm.
Dubai Tram timings
December 31, 2024: From 6am to 11:59pm
January 1, 2025: From 12 midnight to 1am (next day).
Public buses (Dubai Bus)
For updated timings, visitors are advised to check the S’hail app.
Route E100: Suspended from December 31, 2024 to January 1, 2025; passengers should use Route E101 from Ibn Battuta to Abu Dhabi during this period.
Route E102: Suspended from December 31, 2024 to January 1, 2025; passengers should use the same route from Ibn Battuta to Shabiya Musaffah.
Marine transport
Water Taxi (Marina Mall – Bluewaters): From 4pm to 12 midnight.
Dubai Ferry: Services will operate with several routes, including Al Ghubaiba – Dubai Water Canal and Marina Mall – Bluewaters at various times throughout the evening.
Abras: Regular services will operate on multiple routes, including Dubai Old Souq – Baniyas and Al Fahidi – Al Sabkha, from 11am to 11:50pm.
Public parking
All public parking areas will be free of charge (except for multi-storey parking) on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
Paid parking will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Road closures: Key areas to expect disruptions
Starting from 4 pm on December 31, several roads in Downtown Dubai and nearby areas will be closed to traffic to accommodate pedestrian movement and ensure public safety during the New Year’s celebrations.
The closures will affect the following roads:
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard: Closed from 4 pm.
Burj Khalifa Street: Closed from 4 pm.
Al Asayel Street: Closed from 4 pm.
Lower Financial Centre Road: Closed from 4 pm, with the upper deck of Financial Street closing at 9 pm.
Al Mustaqbal Street: Closed from 4 pm.
Al Sukook Street: Closed from 8 pm.
Sheikh Zayed Road: Gradual closures starting at 11 pm.
With heavy traffic expected, especially around Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall due to the fireworks display, visitors are encouraged to arrive early.
Safety and security measures
Dubai Police have urged attendees not to carry large bags to avoid delays from security checks.
Visitors are also advised to cooperate with law enforcement and event staff for a safe and enjoyable experience.
With celebrations taking place across 36 locations in Dubai, including Global Village, Dubai Festival City Mall, Bluewaters, and The Beach at JBR, the Burj Khalifa fireworks remain the main highlight of the night.
To ensure the smooth running of the event, the Dubai Events Security Committee (ESC) is working alongside the RTA to manage crowds and facilitate easy access to key venues.
For those planning to attend, it is highly recommended to arrive early, familiarise themselves with road closures and public transport options, and take advantage of the city’s extended transport services.
As Dubai bids farewell to 2024, the RTA’s measures will ensure a seamless transition into the new year for everyone.
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