Authorities in Abu Dhabi have confirmed that several traffic diversions and road restrictions will be implemented in preparation for New Year celebrations, aiming to manage vehicle flow, enhance safety, and ensure smooth movement during the festivities.
Abu Dhabi announces traffic diversions ahead of New Year celebrations.
As Abu Dhabi prepares to welcome the New Year with large-scale public celebrations, authorities have announced a series of temporary traffic measures aimed at maintaining road safety and ensuring smooth movement across key areas of the city. The restrictions form part of a broader traffic management strategy typically implemented during major events that attract high volumes of vehicles and pedestrians.
According to official announcements, heavy vehicles and labour transport buses will be restricted from entering Abu Dhabi Island during a defined time window. The restrictions will come into effect at 12pm on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, and will remain in place until 6am on Thursday, January 1, 2026. During this period, trucks, heavy freight vehicles, and labour buses will not be permitted to enter or move within the island’s central traffic zones.
In addition to the island-wide measures, authorities confirmed that labour bus movement will also be restricted along Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Road (E22) for the same duration. This key highway often experiences increased traffic during holiday periods, and limiting the movement of large transport vehicles is intended to reduce congestion and improve road safety for private motorists travelling during peak New Year hours.
Further restrictions have been announced in Al Ain, where vehicle movement controls will be enforced on Hazza Bin Sultan Street. These measures will take effect from 12pm on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, and continue until 1am on Thursday, January 1, 2026. During this time, access for trucks, heavy vehicles, and labour transport buses will be suspended to accommodate increased local traffic and ensure the safe movement of residents and visitors attending New Year events.
Officials explained that such traffic controls are routinely applied during major celebrations, public gatherings, and national events. The aim is to prioritise public safety, minimise traffic bottlenecks, and allow emergency services to operate efficiently if required. By restricting heavy and slow-moving vehicles, authorities seek to reduce congestion in high-density areas and ensure smoother traffic flow for smaller vehicles.
Abu Dhabi Island, in particular, is expected to see a significant increase in vehicle activity as residents and tourists head toward entertainment venues, waterfront areas, and public celebration sites. With roads likely to experience higher-than-usual demand, limiting the circulation of heavy transport vehicles is seen as a practical step to maintain order and reduce the risk of accidents.
Authorities also emphasised that these measures are temporary and will be lifted immediately following the conclusion of the designated restriction period. Normal traffic movement for heavy vehicles and labour buses will resume once the New Year celebrations conclude and road conditions stabilise.
Motorists, logistics companies, and commercial transport operators have been advised to plan ahead to avoid disruptions. Transport operators are encouraged to adjust delivery schedules, reroute vehicles through alternative roads outside restricted areas, and ensure drivers are fully informed about the temporary regulations. Companies operating labour buses are similarly urged to coordinate transport timings in advance to comply with the restrictions.
Private motorists travelling during the holiday period are also advised to allow additional travel time, follow posted road signs, and adhere to instructions issued by traffic authorities. Officials have indicated that traffic patrols will be deployed across affected areas to manage vehicle movement and assist road users where necessary.
Authorities stressed the importance of cooperation from all road users, noting that compliance with traffic directives helps ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone during the celebrations. Drivers who fail to follow the announced restrictions may face fines or other penalties, in line with existing traffic laws.
In addition to vehicle restrictions, traffic management teams are expected to monitor congestion levels in real time and make adjustments where needed. This may include temporary road closures, diversions, or changes to traffic signal timings to accommodate surges in vehicle volume during peak hours.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay updated through official channels, including traffic authority announcements and navigation apps, which may provide real-time updates on road conditions and alternative routes. Authorities have reiterated that these measures are being introduced solely to support public safety and ensure the efficient movement of traffic during one of the busiest nights of the year.
As Abu Dhabi gears up for the New Year, officials have thanked the public in advance for their understanding and cooperation. They emphasised that proactive planning and adherence to traffic regulations will play a key role in ensuring that celebrations across the emirate take place smoothly and safely for all.
As the countdown to New Year 2026 begins, Abu Dhabi is finalising an extensive programme of celebrations, entertainment, and public safety arrangements designed to welcome the new year in a festive yet secure atmosphere. Across the emirate, authorities and event organisers are working together to deliver memorable experiences for residents and visitors, while ensuring smooth operations and crowd safety.
A city-wide celebration to welcome 2026
Abu Dhabi’s New Year celebrations will feature a wide variety of events, appealing to families, tourists, and culture enthusiasts alike. From grand fireworks displays to live entertainment and cultural festivities, the emirate is positioning itself as a prime destination for ringing in the new year.
One of the most anticipated highlights will take place at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, which is set to host one of the region’s most impressive New Year’s Eve spectacles. Organisers have planned an extended fireworks show, enhanced by synchronised drone performances and elaborate pyrotechnic sequences. These elements will come together to create a visually captivating display that blends modern technology with traditional Emirati themes, symbolising progress, heritage, and optimism for the year ahead.
The Sheikh Zayed Festival has become a key cultural landmark, and its New Year’s Eve programme is expected to draw large crowds. The display is designed not only to celebrate the arrival of 2026 but also to reflect the UAE’s rich history and national identity through carefully choreographed visuals and storytelling elements.
Fireworks across Abu Dhabi and the UAE
Beyond Al Wathba, fireworks will illuminate the skies across multiple locations in Abu Dhabi and throughout the wider UAE. More than 60 fireworks sites are expected nationwide, offering residents and visitors numerous options to enjoy the midnight countdown. This wide distribution of displays allows people to celebrate closer to home, easing congestion at major venues while still providing a festive experience.
In Abu Dhabi, waterfront areas, open-air venues, and popular public spaces are being prepared to host New Year’s Eve gatherings. These locations are expected to offer clear viewing points for fireworks, along with supporting amenities such as food stalls, entertainment zones, and family-friendly activities.
Authorities have confirmed that enhanced safety and crowd management measures will be in place at all major celebration sites. These include increased security presence, emergency response teams, and traffic coordination to ensure that celebrations proceed smoothly and safely for everyone involved.
Diverse experiences for all age groups
Abu Dhabi’s New Year programme is designed to cater to a wide range of preferences. Families can enjoy early evening fireworks, cultural performances, and festival-style programming in community-focused spaces. Meanwhile, those seeking a more vibrant atmosphere can attend musical events, live performances, and late-night countdown celebrations at key entertainment hubs.
Cultural events will play an important role in the celebrations, highlighting Emirati traditions through music, performances, and artistic displays. These experiences aim to provide meaningful ways for residents and visitors to connect with local culture while celebrating the arrival of the new year.
Waterfront promenades and festival grounds are expected to be among the most popular gathering points, offering scenic backdrops for fireworks and countdown moments. Many venues are preparing dedicated viewing areas, ensuring clear sightlines and comfortable spaces for attendees.
Public safety and operational readiness
Alongside the celebrations, Abu Dhabi authorities have rolled out comprehensive public safety and operational plans to manage the increased activity expected on New Year’s Eve. Traffic management strategies, crowd control measures, and emergency preparedness protocols have been put in place to ensure a safe environment throughout the celebrations.
Officials have encouraged residents and visitors to plan ahead, arrive early at event locations, and follow guidance from security personnel and organisers. Real-time updates on traffic and event logistics are expected to be shared through official channels to help people navigate the city during peak hours.
Public holiday and work arrangements
Adding to the festive mood, the UAE federal government has officially declared January 1, 2026, a public holiday. This announcement allows residents across the country to enjoy the New Year celebrations without the pressure of returning to work the following morning.
In addition, Friday has been designated as a remote work day for government employees, offering greater flexibility and supporting work-life balance during the holiday period. Many private sector employees are also expected to benefit from extended breaks or weekend arrangements, allowing families more time to celebrate and relax.
The combination of public holidays and flexible work arrangements is expected to encourage greater participation in New Year events, as well as domestic tourism across the emirate.
Welcoming the year ahead
With a mix of cultural showcases, large-scale fireworks, and carefully planned public safety operations, Abu Dhabi is set to welcome 2026 with confidence and celebration. The emirate’s New Year programme reflects its commitment to creating inclusive, memorable experiences while maintaining high standards of organisation and security.
As the final moments of 2025 tick away, residents and visitors will have countless opportunities to come together, reflect on the past year, and celebrate the promise of a new beginning under Abu Dhabi’s illuminated skies.
