Dubai: Sheikh Zayed Road to close from 11pm on December 31

Sheikh Zayed Road will be closed from 11pm on December 31 for Burj Khalifa New Year’s Eve 2026 celebrations. ARCHIVE

Motorists planning to travel on Sheikh Zayed Road on New Year’s Eve are advised to plan ahead, as a key section of the highway will be closed for the Burj Khalifa New Year’s Eve 2026 celebrations, according to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). The RTA said Sheikh Zayed Road between Al Meydan Road and Trade Centre Roundabout will be gradually closed from 11pm on December 31 (Thursday) as part of crowd management and security measures.

Earlier road closures on December 31

Closures around Downtown Dubai will begin much earlier in the day: • 4pm - Al Asayel Street - Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard - Burj Khalifa Street - Financial Centre Street (Lower Deck) - Al Mustaqbal Street (between Financial Centre Street and Trade Centre Street) • 8pm - Al Sukook Street • 9pm - Financial Centre Street (Upper Deck)

Parking, buses, and shuttles

Drivers are encouraged to use alternative parking areas at Al Wasl Club and Al Kifaf, where free public buses will operate to and from the event area. More than 20,000 parking spaces will also be available across the Emaar District, including Dubai Mall and surrounding parking facilities. Parking on Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, and nearby major roads will be strictly prohibited. Shuttle buses will circulate near the venue, while free public buses after the event will transport attendees to metro stations, taxi ranks, and parking areas. ICA/Expat Media ALSO READ: Dubai Metro to run non-stop for 43 hours