As Dubai prepares for its iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced important road closures across the city. To accommodate the massive crowds heading to Downtown Dubai and other popular fireworks locations, several key roads will be gradually closed on December 31.

Road Closures Starting at 4 PM

According to Hussain Al Bana, Executive Director of Traffic at the RTA, road closures will begin as early as 4 PM on New Year's Eve. Residents and visitors planning to attend the celebrations are encouraged to make travel arrangements in advance to avoid traffic and ensure they can enjoy the festivities hassle-free.

Affected Roads

Here’s a list of major roads that will be closed throughout the day:

• Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard – Closed from 4 PM
• Financial Centre Street’s Lower Deck – Closed from 4 PM
• Al Mustaqbal Street – Closed from 4 PM
• Burj Khalifa Street – Closed from 4 PM
• Al Asayel Road (from Oud Metha Road to Burj Khalifa) – Closed from 4 PM
• Al Sukuk Street – Closed from 8 PM
• Upper Level of the Financial Road – Closed from 8 PM
• Sheikh Zayed Road – Will gradually close from 11 PM

These closures will ensure the safety and smooth movement of crowds as they make their way to the best viewing spots for Dubai’s spectacular fireworks.

Plan Your Trip Early

With road closures impacting key locations, it’s advisable to start your journey early. If you’re heading to Downtown Dubai or any of the other prime fireworks locations, consider using public transportation to avoid the hassle of road closures and parking. The RTA urges people who don’t plan to attend the events to leave the area early, and those with bookings in the celebration zones are advised to arrive before 4 PM to ensure smooth access.

Special Viewing Zones for Workers

In an effort to make New Year’s Eve enjoyable for everyone, the RTA has set up dedicated viewing areas for workers. These zones, coordinated with the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs, will feature large screens and meal services, allowing workers to safely enjoy the fireworks from a distance without needing to travel to crowded areas.

Additionally, there will be designated family-only viewing areas, with more details to be shared closer to the date. This initiative is part of Dubai’s efforts to ensure that the celebrations are accessible and enjoyable for all residents.

Parking Arrangements

To accommodate the influx of visitors, the RTA has arranged for approximately 20,000 additional parking spaces at various locations, including Dubai Mall, Zabeel, and Emaar Boulevard.

For those preferring to drive, alternative parking lots will be available at Al Wasl and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), with free shuttle buses to transport visitors to key celebration areas. Public transportation, especially the Metro, is highly recommended, and parking is available at stations like Centerpoint, Etisalat e&, and Jebel Ali.

Temporary Closures for Footbridges and Elevators

Please note that the Dubai Water Canal Footbridge and elevators will be closed from 4 PM onward. Be sure to plan alternative routes to ensure you don’t miss the action.

Key Celebration Locations

In addition to the Burj Khalifa, 36 key locations across Dubai will light up as the clock strikes midnight. These locations include:

• Burj Park
• Global Village
• Dubai Festival City Mall
• Al Seef
• Bluewaters
• The Beach at JBR
• Hatta

With such a wide range of events and celebrations across the city, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy the fireworks and usher in the new year.