Dubai activates marine traffic plan for 2026 New Year’s Eve
Vessel owners urged to follow routes, timings, and safety instructions
DUBAI – The Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), part of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, has announced the activation of its final operational plan to manage marine traffic during New Year’s Eve 2026 celebrations.
The measures are aimed at enhancing maritime safety and maintaining smooth navigation during one of the busiest periods of the year. The plan forms part of Dubai’s wider efforts to ensure orderly celebrations across its waterfront destinations.
Implementation will begin on the evening of Wednesday, 31 December 2025, and will be fully enforced from 10:00 pm on 31 December until 2:00 am on 1 January 2026. The measures will apply across high-density marine areas, including Dubai Marina, Dubai Harbour and Palm Jumeirah.
Traffic controls
The plan introduces integrated field operations to regulate vessel movement, including a one-way navigation system before and after midnight. A temporary suspension of marine navigation will also be enforced during the transition period. In addition, marine traffic beneath the Palm Jumeirah bridges will be closed during peak hours from 10:00 pm until 2:00 am.
Vessels will be categorised by size, with designated routes and mandatory time windows assigned to each category. These measures are designed to minimise congestion, reduce collision risks and ensure an orderly flow of marine traffic throughout the celebrations.
Safety oversight
Sheikh Dr Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, Executive Director of Dubai Maritime Authority, said the activation of the final plan reflects the Authority’s commitment to maintaining the highest maritime safety standards. He noted that the measures align with Dubai’s position as a global destination for major events and celebrations.
Round-the-clock patrol and monitoring teams will be deployed in coordination with relevant entities to oversee compliance. Authorities will take immediate legal action against violations in accordance with approved laws and regulations.
Operational rules
The plan enforces strict controls on anchoring and drifting, regulates mooring areas, and prohibits violations within navigation channels. It also mandates full compliance with international regulations for preventing collisions at sea, maintaining safe distances between vessels and restricting route changes except in extreme emergencies.
Dubai Maritime Authority has instructed vessel owners, maritime agents, marinas, yacht clubs and recreational boat operators to fully adhere to the approved operational plan and issued instructions. The objective is to ensure a safe and well-organised maritime environment throughout New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Coordination efforts
As part of its preparations, the Authority held a specialised coordination workshop with strategic partners and marine marinas across Dubai. The session reviewed operational readiness, maritime routes, vessel movement schedules and patrol arrangements, while also examining weather forecasts, anchoring rules, emergency procedures and communication protocols to ensure seamless coordination during New Year’s Eve 2026 operations.
The Authority has also advised all marine users and sea-goers to closely monitor current and forecast weather conditions before and during their trips, due to the possibility of unstable or adverse weather during the celebration period.