Dubai releases New Year’s Eve road closures, Metro hours, and taxi fares

Dubai Police has revealed an extensive safety plan for New Year’s Eve, deploying thousands of officers and implementing road closures to ensure the security of celebratory events. Key routes in Downtown Dubai, including Al Asayel Street, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, and Burj Khalifa Street, will be closed from 4 pm, anticipating large crowds for the annual Burj Khalifa fireworks display.

The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station is scheduled to close at 5 pm, or earlier if capacity is reached. However, the rest of the Metro’s Green and Red lines will operate continuously for 40 hours from 8 am on Sunday to accommodate commuters during one of the busiest periods of the year.

Taxi services, specifically Hala taxis, will implement surge pricing near firework celebrations, doubling fares between 6 pm on Sunday and 6 am on Monday morning. Additionally, a Dh20 ($5.45) starting fare will be in effect in these areas.

To ease transportation, free public buses and additional parking will be provided, with over 20,000 parking spaces available at locations such as Dubai Mall, Zabeel, Fountain View expansions, and Boulevard lower parking spots. Alternative parking areas at Al Wasl Club and Al Jafiliya will have shuttle buses transporting the public to and from New Year’s Eve festivities.

Dubai Police will deploy 10,000 officers at 32 firework display sites across the city, including iconic locations like Burj Khalifa, Global Village, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and Hatta. Comprehensive logistic preparations, including 19 support tents across Dubai, have been implemented to handle lost and found reports and provide assistance. Temporary toilets and food trucks have been set up in various areas to cater to families and reduce the need to walk far for basic amenities.

Major General Abdullah Al Ghaithi, Dubai Police’s assistant commander-in-chief of operations and chairman of the Events Security Committee, emphasized the doubling of logistic preparations to accommodate the increased number of tourists and local visitors. He urged the public to abide by laws and safety rules, emphasizing the importance of leaving early to avoid congestion.

Large screens will be set up in various locations for blue-collar workers to view firework displays, ensuring a widespread and inclusive celebration. As Dubai prepares for a memorable New Year’s Eve, the safety and well-being of the public remain a top priority.