Dubai announced an extensive security operation for its New Year’s Eve celebrations, with 8,530 police officers and 1,145 patrols to be deployed across 36 firework locations, as the emirate expects large crowds for its 2025 celebrations.
The security plan, unveiled during a press conference at InterContinental Dubai Festival City, divides the emirate into four operational sectors – North, Central, West, and Maritime – building on last year’s successful strategy.
Dubai's Events Security Committee announces comprehensive preparations of the 2025 New Year’s Eve celebrations pic.twitter.com/vq0Q3mjw8P
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) December 25, 2024
“As Dubai prepares to welcome the new year, Dubai Police and our key partners have stepped up the measures to deliver unmatched security and services during this global event,” said Abdulla Khalifa Al Marri.
Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will implement major road closures around the Burj Khalifa area from 4 PM on December 31, while the Dubai Metro will operate continuously for 43 hours starting from 5 AM on New Year’s Eve until midnight on January 1.
Road closures:
- Al Asayel Street from Oud Metha Road to Burj Khalifa: from 4 PM
- Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Burj Khalifa Street, and Al Mustaqbal Street: from 4 PM, depending on parking availability
- Lower Financial Centre Street: from 4 PM
- Upper Financial Centre Street and Al Sukook Street: from 8 PM
- Public Advisory: Guests with bookings in the area must arrive before 4 PM.
The celebrations will feature fireworks at key locations including Burj Khalifa, Global Village, Atlantis The Royal, Expo City, and Dubai Frame. To manage the crowds, authorities will deploy six mobile operations rooms and 33 marine rescue boats, alongside Civil Defence vehicles and ambulances.
Dubai Municipality is mobilising 2,776 staff members, including 242 supervisors and 2,534 sanitation workers, supported by 246 vehicles. The healthcare response includes 593 paramedics stationed at 224 emergency points, with a field hospital established in the Burj Khalifa area.
Resources deployed include:
- Five marine rescue boats
- Seven ambulances at Dubai Mall
- 19 ambulances and 38 paramedics near Burj Khalifa
“Dubai Health has developed a comprehensive plan to ensure the provision of healthcare services during the New Year’s Eve 2025 celebrations, both on-site and at its medical facilities,” said Khalifa Baqer, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Health.
A fully equipped field hospital has been established in the Burj Khalifa area, and seven medical points in the celebration zone have been reinforced with emergency medicine specialists. Additionally, six hospitals and four outpatient clinics have been placed on high alert to handle emergency cases. Moreover, 1,800 medical and administrative staff have been deployed across all Dubai Health facilities to guarantee patients receive prompt and efficient medical services,” he added.
The authorities have also arranged dedicated viewing areas for workers, featuring large screens and meal services, aimed at reducing movement to crowded event locations while ensuring inclusive celebrations.
To manage transportation, the RTA will operate 260 buses, including 20 double-deckers, and provide additional parking spaces at Al Wasl Club and Al Jaffiliya, with shuttle services starting from 3 PM.
Dedicated tents will be set up downtown for first aid, logistical support, assistance for lost children and guidance for visitors.
Firework displays are set to take place across 36 locations around the city in areas including Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa, Expo City, Dubai Frame and more.
Over 50,000 SMS will be sent out to the public by Dubai Civil Defence, attendees are strongly advised to adhere to safety guidelines.
“As part of its plan, Dubai Health also offers home care and telemedicine services to support patients in their homes. These services, along with others, can be accessed by contacting the call centre at 80060,” Baqer said.
“We commend the efforts of the Events Security Committee and all participating entities for their significant contributions to organising the event in the best possible manner. This reflects the emirate’s regional and global standing as a leading city for hosting major events,” he concluded.