Dubai Metro to run 43 hours non-stop as RTA rolls out citywide plan for New Year's Eve
Taxis, buses and parking capacity expanded
DUBAI – The Roads and Transport Authority has unveiled an extensive traffic and transport plan for New Year’s Eve, aimed at managing the massive inflow of residents and visitors expected across Downtown Dubai and other celebration zones.
The plan combines extended public transport operations, phased road closures and advanced traffic management systems. Authorities say the measures are designed to ensure smooth mobility and public safety throughout New Year 2026 celebrations.
Dubai Metro operations
Dubai Metro’s Red and Green Lines, along with the Dubai Tram, will operate continuously for 43 hours to accommodate peak demand. Metro services will run from 5am on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, until 11.59pm on Thursday, January 1, 2026. The Dubai Tram will operate from 6am on December 31 until 1am on Friday, January 2.
The extended operating hours are expected to play a central role in easing pressure on roads, particularly around the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai. According to the RTA, public transport usage during New Year’s Eve continues to rise, with more than 2.5 million passengers recorded in 2025, compared with 2.29 million in 2024. The growth highlights the increasing reliance on mass transit during major citywide events.
Road management
Road closures around major event zones will begin at 4pm on New Year’s Eve and will be gradually expanded until 11pm. Affected roads include Al Asayel Street, Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Burj Khalifa Street, Lower and Upper Financial Centre Roads, Al Mustaqbal Street, Al Sukook Street and Sheikh Zayed Road.
Traffic signals in these areas will be centrally controlled, while smart variable message signs will provide real-time updates on closures and alternative routes. Pedestrian safety measures will also be reinforced throughout the event period.
Unified control
Joint teams from the RTA, Dubai Police, Civil Defence and Dubai Ambulance Services will operate from the Unified Control Centre to monitor traffic conditions and transport operations in real time. Advanced systems, including iTraffic and big data analytics, will be used to predict traffic volumes and support rapid operational decisions as crowds build up across the city.
Transport support
More than 5,500 RTA employees will be deployed in the field, supported by ten control centres and 26 traffic diversion vehicles positioned at key locations. Public transport services will be significantly reinforced, with over 14,000 taxis, more than 18,000 limousine and luxury transport vehicles, and over 1,300 buses operating across Dubai.
Parking spaces
Parking capacity has also been expanded, with around 20,000 spaces available in the Burj Khalifa area, an additional 8,000 spaces at metro stations, and overflow parking at locations including Al Wasl Club and Al Kifaf.