Dubai Strengthens Security Measures for New Year 2026 Festivities

Dubai has confirmed its complete preparedness for the New Year’s Eve 2026 festivities, implementing extensive security, transportation, health, and municipal strategies to ensure a secure experience for both residents and visitors.

The announcement came from the Dubai Event Security Committee (ESC) during a press conference at the Dubai Civil Defence Headquarters. The event was attended by key officials from various government and partner organizations involved in safeguarding one of the world’s most anticipated New Year celebrations.

The upcoming celebrations will showcase firework displays at 40 locations throughout the emirate, totaling 48 distinct firework shows. Major sites for these displays include the Burj Khalifa, Global Village, Atlantis The Royal, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Expo City Dubai, Dubai Frame, Al Marmoom Oasis, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Emirates Golf Club, and Hatta.

Coordinated Security Framework Across Dubai

Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations at Dubai Police and Chairman of the Event Security Committee, confirmed that 55 government, semi-government, and private entities are functioning under a unified security framework.

Dubai is divided into four operational sectors — North, Central, West, and Marine — to facilitate effective coordination and rapid responses. Additionally, 37 assistance tents have been established at celebration sites to provide police services, first aid, lost-and-found support, visitor guidance, and care for lost children.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to adhere to safety instructions, cooperate with security personnel, and follow traffic regulations. Emergency situations can be reported through 999, while non-emergency inquiries can be made via 901.

Designated viewing areas for workers have also been coordinated with the Permanent Committee for Labour Affairs, featuring large screens and meal provisions for safe and organized participation.

Emergency Services and Police Preparedness

Dubai Police will deploy 9,884 officers, backed by 1,625 patrol vehicles, 53 marine security boats, 36 bicycles, and 34 mounted patrol units, ensuring comprehensive coverage on both land and sea.

Dubai Civil Defence has also made extensive preparations, assigning 1,754 firefighters across the emirate. Celebration areas will be categorized into five sectors — Deira, Bur Dubai, Central Dubai, Jebel Ali, and the Waterfront Sector — supported by 26 Civil Defence stations, 156 specialized vehicles, and 12 marine firefighting boats. More than 306 essential facilities have been inspected to meet safety standards. Emergencies can be reported via 997.

Traffic Control and Public Transport Arrangements

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has confirmed its readiness to manage traffic and public transport, especially in Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa area. Joint teams from RTA, Dubai Police, Civil Defence, and Dubai Ambulance Services will operate from the Unified Control Centre.

Road closures will begin at 4 pm, gradually expanding until 11 pm to encompass key routes like Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Asayel Street, Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, and surrounding areas.

Public transport capacity will be significantly increased, deploying over 14,000 taxis, 18,000 limousine and luxury vehicles, and 1,300 buses. The Dubai Metro Red and Green Lines, along with the Dubai Tram, will run continuously for 43 hours for seamless mobility during the celebrations.

Healthcare and Ambulance Services Prepared

Dubai Ambulance Services have activated 236 ambulance points across Dubai and Hatta, employing specialized vehicles, marine units, electric and bicycle ambulances, air ambulance support, and mobile medical warehouses. A total of 635 staff members and 50 trained First Responder volunteers will assist in crowded areas. Ambulance services can be requested through 998 or the Dubai Ambulance app.

Dubai Health has mobilized 1,900 medical and support personnel, placed six hospitals and four clinics on standby, and has set up a fully equipped field hospital in the Burj Khalifa area, which includes pediatric services.

Municipal Services and Media Coverage

Dubai Municipality has launched a comprehensive city plan addressing public cleanliness, food safety, and the maintenance of beaches and parks. Public beaches will be restricted to families only, and 14 public parks will remain accessible until 1 am. For the first time, fireworks and drone shows will also be presented from Dubai Frame.

Dubai Media Incorporated will offer global broadcasts of the celebrations, featuring a special program, Fihobi Dubai, along with live coverage of the UAE’s accomplishments throughout 2025.

Emaar Properties has confirmed full readiness in the Burj Khalifa district, and 1,800 volunteers from over 30 nationalities have registered to assist Dubai Police in key celebration zones.