Dubai reveals security plan, road closures for New Year's Eve

A comprehensive security and traffic management plan is in place for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Dubai.

The Events Security Committee said that the city will be divided into four operational zones (North, Central, West and Maritime) to streamline safety measures and enhance public services.

More than 8,500 police officers and over 1,100 patrols will be deployed, in addition to marine rescue boats, civil defence vehicles and ambulances.

Six mobile operations rooms will monitor activities across the emirate.

Officials announced the security, organisational and service plans for New Year's Eve celebrations during a press conference on Tuesday.

The 2025 celebrations will feature fireworks displays at 36 locations across Dubai.

Dubai announces comprehensive security plan for 2025 New Year's Eve celebrationshttps://t.co/pNVXZzTTLc pic.twitter.com/8nMTHNegdo

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 24, 2024

Road Closures:

• Al Asayel Street from Oud Metha Road to Burj Khalifa: from 4:00 PM
• Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Burj Khalifa Street and Al Mustaqbal Street: from 4:00 PM, depending on parking availability
• Lower Financial Centre Street: from 4:00 PM
• Upper Financial Centre Street and Al Sukook Street: from 8:00 PM
• Public Advisory: Guests with bookings in the area must arrive before 4:00 PM.

Metro and tram services

Dubai Metro (Red and Green lines) will operate continuously for 43 hours from 5:00 AM on December 31, 2024. However, the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station will close at 5:00 pm or earlier if capacity is exceeded.

Dubai Tram will also run for 43 consecutive hours, from 6:00 AM on December 31, 2024.

Shuttle Services and Parking

• 260 buses (20 double-deckers, 240 standard) will transport guests to key locations.
• Additional parking (900 spaces) will be available at Al Wasl Club (500) and Al Jaffiliya (400), with shuttle buses running from 3:00 PM.

Crowd management

Traffic lights near major areas will be monitored in real-time, and pedestrian routes to buses and metro stations will be clearly marked. Smart screens will alert drivers about road closures and alternative routes.

Dubai Municipality measures

Dubai Municipality will deploy 2,776 staff, including 242 supervisors and 2,534 sanitation workers, supported by 246 vehicles. The plan focuses on public health, food safety and the cleanliness of public spaces.

• Food Safety: Inspections will be conducted at malls, hotels, restaurants and event sites.
• Park and Beach Management: Special teams will secure public parks, recreational areas and beaches, with lifeguards on duty, particularly at night.
• Waste Management: Round-the-clock operations will ensure cleanliness at event sites.

Dubai Civil Defence preparedness

A total of 1,097 firefighters and 123 advanced vehicles will be deployed. Inspections of 257 critical facilities have ensured compliance with safety standards.

Dubai Civil Defence will send 500,000 safety messages to attendees via SMS and has urged the public to comply with safety guidelines.

Ambulance services

Dubai Ambulance's readiness measures include 224 emergency points and 593 paramedics. Strategic deployment covers key areas like Dubai Mall, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, and Hatta.

Resources deployed include five marine rescue boats, seven ambulances at Dubai Mall, 19 ambulances and 38 paramedics near Burj Khalifa.

Volunteer Programme: 42 trained volunteers will support medical teams in handling minor cases.

Public guidance includes carrying necessary medications and contacting 998 or the Dubai Ambulance app in case of emergencies.

The authorities have called for public cooperation, adherence to guidelines, and the immediate reporting of suspicious behaviour to ensure a safe and enjoyable New Year's Eve.