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Burj Khalifa Image Credit: Gulf News Archive

Burj Khalifa to replace fireworks with laser show on New Year's Eve, officials have announced. Brigadire Abdullah Ali Al Ghaith, Director of the General Department of Organisations, Protective security and Emergency said "Lasers are safer than fireworks. The New Year's Eve lasers have been placed all over Dubai. The aim is to facilitate traffic and ensure a smooth flow. 

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Ahmed Thani Al Matrooshi, Managing Director of Emaar Properties said "This year we have replaced fireworks with a laser show. We wanted to introduce something new to stop using old methods. It will bring about a lot of fun and amusement to spectators" He also said "Emaar seeks to utilise this event, to spotlight the Burj Khalifa, the downtown area and Dubai as an emirate"

Gulf News earlier reported that the all-new theme, “Light Up 2018,” includes festivities spanning Burj Khalifa and water-music performances at the Dubai Fountain. The façade of Downtown Dubai’s iconic buildings will serve as a canvas for a “spectacular show” that will be coordinated and produced by a team of world-class experts. 

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Maitha Bin Adai, CEO of RTA Traffic and Roads Agency says: "The Burj Khalifa is the most important area. We thank our partners and collaborators for not just the New Year's Eve arrangements but all year round events happening. I hope the public will comply with  instructions that they receive from police officers and security personnel."

Maitha Bin Adai highlighting affected routes

A light show will replace the fireworks display at Burj Khalifa to ring in the New Year. Each year, hundreds of thousands of spectators descend on Downtown Dubai, home of the world’s tallest tower and largest shopping mall, to enjoy the festivities. Back in 2013, nearly two million people converged to watch the show.

“Say goodbye to the old and hello to the new as we #LightUp2018 in Downtown Dubai this #MayDubaiNewYear,” Emaar’s social media post reads.

Find out everything you need to know about road closures this New Year's Eve.