Dubai is ready to host a grand New Year’s Eve celebration at the Burj Khalif and just like every year, a large crowd is expected in 2026. For convenience of the attendees, public transportation will run on extended schedules to make getting around easier. We’ve put together all the details on Metro, Tram, bus services, marine transport and parking timings for the New Year Holiday.
Public Transportation Timings on New Year’s Eve
For ease of mobility and traffic management, the roads around Downtown Dubai close on the evening of December 31. As an alternative, attendees can opt for the public transportation services which will operate extended services to support high passenger demand.
Before opting for public transportation services, make sure your Nol Card has sufficient balance, especially for round‑trip travel. For standard travel, a minimum balance of around AED 15 on a Silver Nol Card is recommended, but check the latest RTA fare requirements before traveling.
Dubai Metro Timings
The Dubai Metro Red and Green lines will be operational for 43 consecutive hours during the New Year’s period. The Dubai Metro timings for the New Year’s celebration in 2026 are from 05:00 am on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, to 11:59 pm. On Thursday, January 1, 2026, the service timings are from 12 midnight to 11:59 pm. Both Red and Green Lines will run nonstop to support the high demand around the celebrations.
However, the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station will be closed after 05:00 pm or if its limit exceeds before this time. Attendees are encouraged to use Emirates Tower, World Trade Centre, Financial Centre and Business Bay Metro Stations as alternatives.
Moreover, attendees reaching the stations by car are recommended to opt for a station with dedicated parking space. Following are the Metro stations with parking spots.
- Centrepoint
- Etisalat by e&
- Jebel Ali
- Jumeirah Golf Estate
Dubai Tram Timings
Alongside the Metro, Dubai Tram will operate from 6:00 am to 11:59 pm on December 31, 2025. On January 1, 2026, services will run continuously from 12:00 am until 1:00 am (January 2, 2026). Tram services will operate in parallel with the Metro to support local travel.
Dubai Bus
Bus schedules will see some changes during the New Year period. Check the S’hail app for real-time updates.
Key notes:
- Route E100 will not operate from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station starting the afternoon of 31 December. The last trip will depart at 12:00 noon from Abu Dhabi and at 2:00 pm from Al Ghubaiba. Services are going to resume on January 4, 2026.
- Route E101: Passengers are advised to use this route from Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Abu Dhabi during this period.
- Route E102: Operates from Ibn Battuta Bus Station on 31 December from 2:00 pm until the end of the day.
Public buses will remain available to help attendees reach Metro stations, Dubai Taxi Taxi stands and alternative parking areas after the event concludes.
Marine Transport
RTA’s marine transport services will operate according to holiday schedules. Passengers should check the timings and routes in advance via the S’hail app to plan trips along Dubai Creek and Marina waterways.
Free Public Parking
Public parking will be free on 1 January 2026 in most areas, except multi-storey car parks and Al Khail Gate N‑365. Regular fees resume on 2 January.
Other RTA Services
- All RTA Customer Happiness Centres will be closed on 1 January, except for smart areas at Al Barsha, Al Twar, Al Kifaf and RTA HQ, which operate 24 hours.
- Vehicle testing and service provider centres will be closed on 1 January, reopening on 2 January.
FAQs
Will Burj Khalifa Metro Station remain operational on New Year’s Eve?
The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station will be open but may close to arrivals around 5:00 pm on 31 December if it reaches full capacity. Attendees should use nearby stations like Emirates Towers, World Trade Centre, Financial Centre and Business Bay to access the event area.
Which metro stations are closest for reaching Burj Khalifa?
Emirates Tower, World Trade Centre, Financial Centre and Business Bay are the nearest metro stations. They will remain accessible during the evening.
Will Dubai Tram run during New Year’s Eve celebrations?
Yes, the Dubai Tram will operate on an extended schedule, running continually from the morning of December 31 until early hours of January 2.
Will marine transport be available?
Yes. Marine services will operate on holiday schedules, and passengers are advised to check the S’hail app for routes and timings.
These are the public transportation timings on New Year’s Eve in Dubai. Public transportation services help attendees reach the venue with ease. Besides, if you do not prefer to travel by public transportation, browse through these used cars for sale in Dubai and buy your very own car. If using personal commute, it is recommended to reach the venue before road closure.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on Dubai’s public transportation.
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