Dubai Announces Closure of Sheikh Zayed Road and Key Routes on New Year Eve

(In UAE Time)
Sheikh Zayed Road

To set up New Year's Eve celebrations, especially around Downtown Dubai, which is well-known for its famous fireworks displays, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has revealed a detailed strategy to progressively restrict important roadways on December 31.

The Executive Director of Traffic for the RTA, Hussain Al Bana, has recommended locals and guests visiting these locations to arrange their trips early and give public transport top priority, This proactive effort seeks to provide seamless access to the festive locations and help to reduce traffic congestion.

Early Preparations Advised

The RTA will begin blocking roads as early as 4 PM on December 31 to help to accommodate the flood of people to well-known sites including Downtown Dubai. Early preparation is crucial, Al Bana underlined not only for those who want to celebrate but also for those who want to completely shun the celebrations. Early departure will help to reduce the disturbance caused by the road closures and expected strong traffic in certain locations.

List of Affected Roads and Closure Timings

The restrictions will be carried out in phases, and main routes will progressively become unreachable. The following lists the impacted highways together with their closing times:

  • Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard: Closed from 4 PM.
  • Financial Centre Street (Lower Deck): Closed from 4 PM.
  • Al Mustaqbal Street: Closed from 4 PM.
  • Burj Khalifa Street: Closed from 4 PM.
  • Al Asayel Road: Closed from 4 PM.
  • Al Sukuk Street: Closed from 8 PM.
  • Upper Level of Financial Road: Closed from 9 PM.
  • Sheikh Zayed Road: Gradual closure starting from 11 PM.

The timing and gradual nature of these closures have been strategically planned to facilitate a steady flow of traffic earlier in the day while providing ample time for road users to adjust their plans.

The RTA highly advises the use of public transportation considering the wide road closures, Dubai's well-connected metro system, busses and taxis will be operational to meet the higher demand on New Year's Eve, Conveniently situated close to important celebration sites, public transportation hubs guarantee simpler access for guests and help to ease traffic congestion.

Proactive Measures for Non-Celebrants

The RTA encourages people not taking part in the festivities leaving impacted areas before the road restrictions start. This early leaving guarantees better travel and helps to prevent possible delays. Authorities are advising the people to keep updated with the times of road closures and other paths to efficiently negotiate the metropolis.

Dubai's dedication to guarantee the safety and convenience of its citizens and guests over the festive season is shown by the phased approach of road closures, The closures are meant to make Downtown Dubai and other well-known sites pedestrian-friendly so that thousands of partygoers may enjoy the fireworks shows and other events free from vehicle disturbance.

The RTA's traffic management strategy highlights Dubai's commitment to provide everyone a flawless experience as the city gets ready to ring in the new year with big celebrations, Residents and guests are urged to be informed, make advance plans and use public transportation to guarantee a hassle-free experience whether they are traveling around the celebrations or attending them.