Picture for illustrative purpose only. ARCHIVE

As the world eagerly awaits the arrival of 2025, Dubai is once again set to be at the forefront of New Year's Eve celebrations, offering an array of spectacular events, fireworks, and parties across the city. Known for its opulence and grandeur, Dubai's New Year celebrations are anticipated to draw tourists and residents alike, all eager to ring in the new year in style.

Where to watch fireworks

This year, the celebrations are expected to be even more spectacular, with organizers promising fireworks displays that will leave viewers in awe. Here's the full list of locations hosting fireworks: 1. Burj Khalifa 2. Al Seef 3. Bluewaters (The Beach JBR) 4. Global Village 5. Dubai Frame 6. Expo City Dubai 7. Jumeirah Beach Hotel 8. Dubai Design District 9. Dubai Festival City 10. Dubai Parks and Resorts 11. Hatta 12. J1 Beach — La Mer 13. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort 14. Al Marmoom Oasis 15. Atlantis The Royal Hotel 16. Arabian Ranches Golf Club 17. Nshama Town Square 18. Top Golf Dubai 19. Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa 20. Sofitel Dubai The Palm 21. Park Hyatt Dubai 22. One & Only Royal Mirage 23. One & Only The Palm 24. Four Seasons Resort — Jumeirah Beach 25. Five Palm Jumeirah 26. Bulgari Resort & Residences 27. Address Montgomerie Dubai 28. JA Beach Hotel — Jebel Ali 29. Palazzo Versace 30. Terra Solis 31. Blue Oasis Resort 32. Nikki Beach Resort & Spa 33. Jumeirah Golf Estates 34. Emirates Golf Club 35. Voco Monaco Hotel — World Islands 36. Saif — Dubai Festival City

Dubai Metro, Dubai Tram

The Dubai Metro Red and Green Lines will operate continuously for 43 hours to accommodate New Year’s Eve celebrations, according to the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Dubai Metro services will run from 5am on December 31 to midnight on January 2. Similarly, the Dubai Tram will provide uninterrupted service from 6am on December 31 until 1am on January 2.

Dubai Metro Stations

The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station will close at 5pm on December 31 or earlier if it exceeds crowd capacity. Commuters planning to attend events near the Burj Khalifa are advised to use alternative Metro stations such as World Trade Centre, Business Bay, Emirates Towers, or Financial Centre. To avoid delays, Metro users should ensure their Nol cards have a minimum balance of Dh15 for Silver cards or Dh30 for Gold cards.

Parking in Dubai

Motorists heading to Dubai Metro stations are encouraged to park their vehicles at designated locations, including Jebel Ali, Etisalat by e&, Centrepoint, and Jumeirah Golf Estates, to avoid road closures near the event areas. Motorists can also use alternative parking areas: Al Wasl Club, Al Kifaf, and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. Motorists are urged to avoid parking on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road, as authorities will strictly enforce prohibitions.

Dubai public buses

The RTA will offer free public bus rides to and from New Year’s celebrations at Burj Khalifa. The free bus service will transport passengers from designated parking areas, including Al Wasl Club, Al Kifaf, and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs. After the fireworks, buses will shuttle commuters to Metro stations, taxi stands, and alternative parking areas.

Road closures in Dubai

Gradual road closures will begin at 4pm on December 31 to facilitate crowd and traffic management. Here's the full list: • Al Asayel Street: 4pm • Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard: 4pm • Burj Khalifa Street: 4pm • Financial Centre Street (Lower Deck): 4pm • Al Mustaqbal Street: 4pm • Al Sukook Street: 8pm • Financial Centre Street (Upper Deck): 9pm • Sheikh Zayed Road (from Trade Centre Roundabout to Al Meydan Road): 11pm

Pedestrian bridges

Dubai Water Canal elevators and pedestrian bridges in Jumeirah, Al Safa, and Business Bay will also close during the festivities.

Emergency numbers

Emergency reports can be made via the toll-free number 999 while non-emergency reports can be made via 901. The public can also contact 998 for Dubai Ambulance services and medications.

Weather in Dubai

With the weather in Dubai expected to be mild and pleasant, the city is set to provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor celebrations. Whether you’re planning to watch the fireworks with family, dance the night away at a party, or enjoy a luxurious dinner at one of Dubai’s top restaurants, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this New Year's Eve. As the countdown to 2025 begins, Dubai is once again poised to deliver an unforgettable New Year's Eve experience, making it one of the top destinations in the world to welcome the new year. Be sure to plan your evening in advance, as many events require prior booking and tickets tend to sell out quickly. So, grab your loved ones, find your perfect spot, and get ready to start 2025 with a bang in one of the most vibrant cities on the planet. ICA/Expat Media
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