Dubai Gears Up for Spectacular New Year 2026 Celebration

Dubai has officially announced its comprehensive preparations for the New Year’s Eve 2026 festivities, ensuring robust security, transportation, healthcare, and municipal strategies for a safe and magnificent experience for both residents and visitors.

This declaration was made by the Dubai Event Security Committee (ESC) during a media briefing at Dubai Civil Defence Headquarters, which saw the participation of senior officials from key governmental and partner organizations involved in orchestrating this globally renowned celebration.

This year, the highlights include dazzling fireworks displays at 40 locations throughout the emirate, featuring a total of 48 stunning shows. Iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Global Village, Atlantis The Royal, and several others will serve as prime locations for these displays.

Coordinated Security Strategy for Dubai

Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations at Dubai Police and head of the Event Security Committee, indicated that a unified security approach is in place involving 55 government, semi-government, and private entities.

Dubai has been segmented into four operational zones — North, Central, West, and Marine — to facilitate efficient coordination and rapid responses. Public support services will feature 37 assistance tents at celebration venues, providing police support, first aid, lost-and-found services, visitor guidance, and care for unaccompanied children.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to heed safety guidelines, cooperate with security teams, and follow traffic rules. Emergency situations should be reported via 999, while non-urgent inquiries can be directed to 901.

Special viewing sections have been set for workers, in collaboration with the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs, featuring large screens and meal provisions for a comfortable and organized experience.

Emergency Services and Police Preparation

Dubai Police will deploy 9,884 personnel, backed by 1,625 vehicles, 53 marine security boats, 36 bicycles, and 34 mounted units, to ensure thorough coverage both on land and at sea.

Additionally, Dubai Civil Defence has engaged 1,754 firefighters ramping up in preparation across the emirate. The areas of celebration have been divided into five sectors, each supported by 26 Civil Defence stations and a specialized fleet to ensure safety compliance. Emergencies can be reported at 997.

Transport and Traffic Management

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has declared readiness for traffic management and public transit operations, especially in Downtown Dubai and around Burj Khalifa. Collaborative teams from RTA, Dubai Police, Civil Defence, and Dubai Ambulance Services will operate from the Unified Control Centre.

Road closures will commence at 4 pm and expand progressively until 11 pm, affecting major routes like Sheikh Zayed Road and surrounding thoroughfares.

Public transport capacity has been ramped up, with over 14,000 taxis, 18,000 limousines, and 1,300 buses ready to serve the public. The Dubai Metro and Tram services will operate non-stop for 43 hours, ensuring seamless travel during the celebrations.

Healthcare Services at the Ready

Dubai Ambulance Services has activated 236 medical points throughout Dubai and Hatta, equipped with specialized vehicles, marine units, and air ambulance capabilities. A total of 635 staff members and 50 trained volunteers will assist in high-density areas. Ambulance assistance can be requested via 998 or through the Dubai Ambulance app.

Dubai Health has mobilized 1,900 medical personnel, readied six hospitals and four clinics for emergencies, and set up a fully equipped field hospital in the Burj Khalifa area with pediatric services available.

City Services, Media Coverage and Support

Dubai Municipality has initiated an extensive citywide strategy for public cleanliness, food safety, and maintaining parks and beaches. Designated family-only areas will be established at public beaches, and 14 parks will remain accessible until 1 am. Notably, fireworks as well as drone shows will also be introduced from Dubai Frame for the first time.

Dubai Media Incorporated will broadcast the New Year’s festivities worldwide, featuring a special program titled Fihobi Dubai, showcasing live coverage and recaps of the UAE’s accomplishments in 2025.

Emaar Properties confirmed their readiness in the Burj Khalifa area, while 1,800 volunteers representing over 30 nationalities stand prepared to assist Dubai Police in managing key celebration locations.