Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has implemented an unprecedented security and traffic management operation for New Year’s Eve celebrations, mobilizing over 5,500 personnel and activating a network of 10,000 surveillance cameras across the emirate. The comprehensive system enables real-time monitoring of roadways, public transportation networks, and station facilities, allowing authorities to respond immediately to congestion points and potential emergencies.
According to Salahaldeen Almarzooqi, Director of Intelligent Traffic Systems at RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, planning for the 2026 celebrations commenced immediately following the previous year’s events. “We utilize all available resources, technological capabilities, accumulated data, and historical lessons to enhance each subsequent year’s operations,” Almarzooqi stated. The strategic deployment combines experienced staff with new team members to ensure both operational continuity and training development.
The authority has prepared for increasing passenger volumes, with public transport and taxi usage growing from 2.2 million to 2.5 million passengers between the 2024 and 2025 New Year’s Eve events. This year’s transportation infrastructure includes 14,000 taxis operating throughout Dubai, with more than 5,000 specifically allocated to Downtown areas where the primary celebrations occur.
The operation employs AI-powered sensors and control rooms that assess traffic conditions in real-time, implementing gradual road closures as needed. Rolling closures began at 4pm across multiple areas including Downtown Dubai and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). Senior management and crisis response teams remain on standby throughout the event, maintaining continuous inter-agency coordination to ensure public safety and transportation efficiency during one of Dubai’s most significant annual celebrations.