New Year’s Eve 2025: Top 5 locations to watch fireworks and drone shows in Dubai
All you need to know about road closures, parking, and safety guidelines
Dubai’s New Year celebrations are nothing short of iconic, drawing visitors from across the globe.
With mesmerising fireworks, cutting-edge drone shows, and festivities spread across the city, it’s the ultimate way to welcome the New Year.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure you enjoy the celebrations without a hitch.
NYE fireworks and drone show locations
Burj Park
- Time: 11:59 PM
- Location: Burj Park – Opposite Burj Khalifa
Burj Al Arab
- Time: 11:59 PM
- Location: Burj Al Arab – Jumeirah
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) Drones Show
- Time: 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM
- Location: Bluewaters and The Beach opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) Fireworks
- Time: 11:59 PM
- Location: Dubai Festival City Mall, Al Seef, Bluewaters, The Beach opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence, and Hatta.
Marine Transportation
- Departure locations for cruises: Marina Mall, Al Ghubaiba, Bluewaters, Al Fahidi, and Al Jaddaf.
Advance booking is recommended through marinebooking@rta.ae to secure a starting point nearest to your location.
How to reach the celebration sites?
You can proceed to the celebration sites either by private vehicles or by using public transportation. The Dubai Metro is a convenient option considering there might be street closures in the areas surrounding the designated celebration sites. It is advisable to head to the venues early before road closures take effect to avoid traffic congestion and ensure a comfortable, safe, and secure experience.
Roads closure in Dubai
Al Asayel Street will be closed to traffic at exactly 4:00 pm, notably the stretch from Oud Metha Street towards the Burj Khalifa area.
Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Burj Khalifa Street, and Future Street will be closed starting from 4:00 pm as the parking spaces in these areas reach full capacity. Members of the public who have reserved places at establishments in the Boulevard area or Dubai Mall are advised to arrive before 4:00 pm on Tuesday.
Lower Financial Center Street will be closed around 4:00 pm. On Upper Financial Center Street and Sukuk Street, traffic restrictions will be enforced from 8:00 pm.
Alternative routes
Sheikh Zayed Road will remain fully open until a partial closure takes effect at 11:00 pm. Alternatively, the public can use Jumeirah Street, Al Wasl Street, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, and Al Khail Road.
Where to park private vehicles
Park your vehicle in one of the designated parking areas so that you can enjoy the events and festivities undisturbed. Be mindful of others’ safety and comfort while parking your vehicle. Avoid parking in the middle of the road, which causes traffic obstruction and inconvenience to others.
Bringing children to celebration sites
Celebrating with family and friends makes the festivities even more enjoyable, but please be mindful of children's safety, especially in crowded areas. Always keep a close eye on the children in your group and ensure they stay by your side right through. It is preferable for children to wear safety wristbands.
What to do in case of an injury or a medical emergency
You should call the emergency number 998 to report any medical emergencies, or promptly contact a Dubai Police officer or security personnel present at the location. They will take the necessary steps to summon one of the ambulance teams present at the location to provide the necessary medical assistance.
Ambulance services
Dubai always ensures the comfort, safety, and security of everyone during all major events and occasions by providing all services that guarantee the swiftest response during emergencies of any kind. Specialised teams are available at all New Year's celebration sites to provide first aid services, in addition to which ambulance teams are always at hand to deal with cases that require urgent medical intervention.
In case of fire
Preparedness for all kinds of emergencies, including fire, is a top priority for Dubai's Events Security Committee (ESC). Civil Defense teams are stationed at various celebration sites, as is the case with all major events hosted by Dubai throughout the year. Ensuring everyone’s safety and security is a responsibility Dubai takes very seriously and always places topmost amongst its priorities.
What to do with a lost bag
Please inform the police or security personnel present at the location. Your cooperation is key in ensuring that lost items are returned to their owners.
What to do if you lose your belongings
You should inform Dubai Police or any security personnel present at the location, leave your contact information, and provide a detailed description of the lost items. You will be contacted to come and collect them as soon as they are found.
Family picnic items at celebration site
Avoid carrying large bags or items to the celebration sites to ensure smooth entry and movement within the venue. This ensures everyone's comfort and allows for an enjoyable and hassle-free experience for all attendees.
General guidelines
Follow the instructions provided by security personnel at the celebration site as well as the instructional signs at the location.
- Adhere to traffic rules and regulations and give priority to pedestrians crossing at designated areas.
- Avoid crowding or pushing and use designated pedestrian areas.
- Be considerate of others and avoid behaviours that may cause distress or spoil the festive mood.