Dubai deploys 10,000 police and 1,700 firefighters for New Year’s Eve celebrations

The Dubai Event Security Committee has confirmed full operational readiness for New Year’s Eve 2026, deploying nearly 10,000 police officers and more than 1,700 firefighters to secure celebrations across the emirate.

Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander in Chief of Dubai Police for Operations and Chairman of the Event Security Committee, announced during a press conference at Dubai Civil Defence headquarters that 55 government, semi-government and private sector entities are working under a unified security framework.

Dubai rings in 2026 with fireworks

This year’s celebrations will feature 48 fireworks shows at 40 locations, including Burj Khalifa, Global Village, Atlantis The Royal, Expo City Dubai and Dubai Frame, which will host fireworks and drone displays for the first time.

Dubai Police has deployed 9,884 officers and 1,625 patrol vehicles, supported by 53 marine security and rescue boats, 36 bicycles and 34 mounted patrol units. The emirate has been divided into four operational sectors to ensure efficient coordination.

Major General Expert Ali Hassan Al Mutawa, Assistant Commander in Chief for Fire and Rescue Affairs at Dubai Civil Defence, confirmed that 1,754 firefighters will be deployed across five main sectors. Dubai Civil Defence has inspected more than 306 vital facilities and prepared a fleet of over 156 specialised vehicles, including 12 marine firefighting boats.

Hussain Al Banna, CEO of the Traffic and Roads Agency at RTA, said more than 2.5 million passengers used public transport during last year’s celebrations, reflecting year-on-year growth. Road closures around event areas will begin at 4pm and expand until 11pm, covering key roads including Sheikh Zayed Road and Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard.

Dubai enhances mobility for celebrations

Public transport capacity has been significantly increased, with more than 14,000 taxis, over 18,000 limousine vehicles and more than 1,300 buses in operation. Dubai Metro Red and Green Lines will operate continuously for 43 hours, running from 5am on 31 December until 11.59pm on 1 January.

Dubai Corporation Ambulance Services will activate 236 ambulance points across the emirate, supported by 635 staff and 50 trained volunteers from the First Responder programme. Dubai Health will deploy 1,900 medical, nursing and support staff, with six hospitals and four external clinics on full alert and a fully equipped field hospital established in the Burj Khalifa area.

Major General Al Mazrouei urged the public to follow safety instructions and cooperate with police personnel. “This initiative highlights the deep-rooted community partnership and reinforces the culture of volunteering as a fundamental driver for security and organisational efforts during major annual events in Dubai,” said Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri, Director of the General Department of Community Happiness, announcing that 1,800 volunteers have registered to support the celebrations.

The public can report emergencies via 999, with enquiries directed to 901. Ambulance services can be requested via 998 or through the Dubai Ambulance app.