Dubai’s New Year Eve celebrations: All you need to know

Dubai: Dubai is gearing up for a spectacular New Year’s celebration with fireworks, drone shows, cruises, and a host of exciting events for residents and visitors alike.

The iconic Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab will be the focal points for New Year’s Eve fireworks, lighting up the Dubai skyline at 11:59pm. The Burj Park, opposite the Burj Khalifa, will host the dazzling fireworksdisplay, while the Burj Al Arab in Jumeirah offers another stunning view.

If you’re planning to celebrate from the water, Dubai offers marine transportation options with departure points at Marina Mall, Al Ghubaiba, Bluewaters, Al Fahidi, and Al Jaddaf. It’s recommended to book in advance through marinebooking@rta.ae to ensure the best departure point near you.

The best way to access the celebration sites is through public transportation, particularly the Dubai Metro, which provides easy access to major event locations. However, there will be some road closures in preparation for the celebrations.

Starting from 4pm, key streets around the Burj Khalifa area will be closed, including Al Asayel Street, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Burj Khalifa Street, and Future Street. Traffic will also be restricted on Financial Center streets after 8pm.

To avoid delays, use alternative routes like Jumeirah Street, Al Wasl Street, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, and Al Khail Road.

Sheikh Zayed Road will remain open until a partial closure at 11pm.

Once you arrive at a celebration site, make sure to park in designated areas to ensure smooth movement and avoid traffic disruption. Keep your vehicle parked safely, as obstructions can cause delays for others.

For families attending, while children are welcome, it’s crucial to keep a close eye on them in crowded areas. Wristbands with contact details are recommended for added safety.

Dubai ensures the safety and well-being of everyone during major events. Ambulances and first aid teams will be available across all celebration sites, and Civil Defense teams will be on standby in case of any fire-related emergencies.

In case of lost personal belongings, report them to Dubai Police or security staff to facilitate the return of items to their rightful owners. Conversely, if you lose an item, be sure to provide a detailed description to help with recovery.

Be prepared, follow the guidelines, and enjoy the exciting festivities as the city ushers in 2025 in grand style.