Dubai to close Sheikh Zayed Road, other key routes on New Year's Eve; timings announced

Those heading to the Downtown area and other popular locations are urged to start their trips early or use public transport

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by

Waad Barakat

Hind Aldah

Published: Tue 24 Dec 2024, 1:45 PM

Last updated: Wed 25 Dec 2024, 10:46 AM

Dubai will gradually close major routes, including parts of the Sheikh Zayed Road, from 4pm on December 31, a senior official of the emirate's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) said on Tuesday.

Residents and visitors who are heading to Downtown Dubai and other popular fireworks show locations are urged to start their trips early and use public transport, said Hussain Al Bana, executive director of traffic at the RTA. He also advised those who do not wish to attend the festivities in these areas to leave early, and guests with bookings in the area to arrive before 4pm.

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“The closure of roads at all locations will start at about 4pm on December 31," he said.

Among the roads that will be closed are:

  • Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard: To be closed from 4pm
  • Financial Centre St's Lower Deck: To be closed from 4pm
  • Al Mustaqbal St: Closed from 4pm
  • Burj Khalifa St: Closed from 4pm
  • Al Asayel Road (from Oud Metha Road to Burj Khalifa): Closed from 4pm
  • Al Sukuk St: Closed from 8pm
  • Upper level of the Financial Road: Closed from 8pm
  • Sheikh Zayed Road: Will gradually close from 11pm

Dedicated viewing areas for workers have been arranged by the authorities in coordination with the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs. These zones will feature large screens and meal services, allowing workers to enjoy the celebrations, including the fireworks, safely and conveniently while reducing the need for movement to crowded event locations. Additionally, special areas have been declared for family viewers only, with further details to be provided later.

Additional parking

To ensure that there is adequate parking for people coming to watch the New Year's Eve firework shows, the RTA has arranged approximately 20,000 additional parking spaces at Dubai Mall, Zabeel, and Emaar Boulevard.

For those who prefer to drive instead of using public transport, alternative parking spaces will also be provided at Al Wasl and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) parking lots, where free shuttle buses will be available.

Visitors are advised to use Metro stations where parking is available, such as Centerpoint, Etisalat e&, and Jebel Ali stations. The Dubai Water Canal Footbridge and elevators will close at 4pm.

As the city unveiled its New Year’s Eve celebration lineup, a total of 36 locations across Dubai will illuminate the first moments of 2025. Key celebration venues include Burj Park, Global Village, Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Seef, Bluewaters, The Beach at JBR, and Hatta.

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Waad Barakat
Hind Aldah

Published: Tue 24 Dec 2024, 1:45 PM

Last updated: Wed 25 Dec 2024, 10:46 AM

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