Al Hijri New Year 2026 Metro Timings – Complete Schedule & Updated Routes

Dubai is all set to welcome 2026 with one of the biggest Al Hijri New Year Eve celebrations in the world. The Burj Khalifa fireworks will take center stage, alongside more than 40 other spectacular displays across the city. With so many people expected to attend, planning your travel ahead is key to enjoying the night stress-free.

Al Hijri New Year to make it easier for everyone, the RTA has shared updated timings for the Dubai Metro, buses, Dubai Tram, and marine transport, along with details of road closures during the festivities. These changes will affect travel on Wednesday, 31 December 2025, and Thursday, 1 January 2026, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule before heading out.

Dubai Metro Timings and Public Transport Guide for New Year 2026

Al Hijri New Year Dubai is ready to welcome Al Hijri New Year 2026 with grand celebrations, fireworks, and events across the city, especially around the iconic Burj Khalifa. With millions expected to attend, navigating the city can be challenging. Fortunately, Dubai’s public transportation system, including the Metro, tram, buses, and marine transport, will operate extended services to ensure smooth travel during the festivities. This guide will cover all essential timings, alternative routes, and tips to make your journey stress-free.

How Dubai Prepares for New Year Celebrations

Every year, Dubai anticipates a massive influx of visitors during Al Hijri New Year Eve. Downtown Dubai sees road closures starting from the evening of December 31 to manage traffic and ensure public safety. As a result, relying on public transport is the smartest choice. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) enhances service frequency, extends operating hours, and provides guidance to commuters so they can enjoy celebrations without worrying about transportation delays.

Extended Metro Service Hours During the Festivities

The Dubai Metro will operate continuously for over 43 hours during the Al Hijri New Year period. Services will start early on December 31, 2025, at 5:00 am and continue until 11:59 pm on January 1, 2026. Both the Red and Green lines will run nonstop, accommodating large crowds heading to downtown Dubai and surrounding areas.

Key Highlights:

• Continuous service on Red and Green lines
• Extended frequency to reduce waiting times
• Stations near major attractions will remain accessible until capacity limits are reached

Line-Specific Timings: Red and Green Lines Explained

Red Line: Connects key areas including Jebel Ali, Dubai Marina, and Burj Khalifa. It will remain operational around the clock to manage passenger flow efficiently.

Green Line: Serves areas like Al Qusais and Dubai Healthcare City, also providing extended service during peak celebrations.

Important Tip: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station may close after 5:00 pm on December 31 if it reaches capacity. Commuters should consider alternative stations such as Emirates Tower, World Trade Centre, Financial Centre, and Business Bay.

Alternative Metro Stations Near Burj Khalifa

For those planning to attend the fireworks at Burj Khalifa, nearby stations with available access include:

• Emirates Tower Metro Station
• World Trade Centre Metro Station
• Financial Centre Metro Station
• Business Bay Metro Station

These stations also offer park-and-ride facilities for commuters driving to the metro. Recommended stations with dedicated parking include Centrepoint, Etisalat by e&, Jebel Ali, and Jumeirah Golf Estate.

Dubai Tram Timings During New Year Period

The Dubai Tram complements the Metro network, providing convenient connections to areas not directly served by the metro.

Tram Schedule:

• December 31, 2025: 6:00 am – 11:59 pm
• January 1, 2026: 12:00 am – 1:00 am (Jan 2)

The tram will operate in sync with metro services, helping commuters travel easily between residential areas and main celebration zones.

Bus Services and Key Route Updates

Dubai’s public buses will operate on modified schedules during Al Hijri New Year, with some routes seeing early morning starts or late-night operations.

Key Changes:

• Route E100 will not operate from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station after 12:00 noon on December 31, resuming January 4, 2026
• Route E101 is recommended from Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Abu Dhabi during this period
• Route E102 will run from 2:00 pm on December 31 until the end of the day

Buses will continue to provide connectivity to metro stations, taxi stands, and alternative parking locations. Passengers are advised to check the S’hail app for real-time updates and exact schedules.

Marine Transport Options for Festive Travel

Dubai’s RTA marine transport services, including ferries and water buses, will operate on holiday schedules. These services are particularly helpful for those traveling along Dubai Creek or Marina waterways. Passengers should check timings in advance via the S’hail app to coordinate with metro or bus connections.

Free Public Parking and Accessibility Tips

Public parking will be free on January 1, 2026, in most areas, with exceptions including multi-storey car parks and Al Khail Gate N‑365. Regular fees resume on January 2.

Tips for Park-and-Ride Users:

• Arrive early to secure parking near metro stations
• Use parking at stations with dedicated spaces for smooth access
• Consider combining metro and tram for final leg of travel

Travel Safety and Passenger Advisory

Safety is a priority during New Year celebrations. Stations and transit hubs will have extra personnel to guide commuters, manage crowds, and provide assistance.

Passenger Tips:

• Maintain sufficient Nol Card balance (minimum AED 15 for Silver Card)
• Avoid overcrowed stations like Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall after peak hours
• Use official pick-up and drop-off points for taxis

Real-Time Updates and Smart Travel Planning

RTA offers real-time service updates through multiple channels:

• Mobile applications (S’hail app)
• Official RTA website
• Station digital displays
• Social media announcements

Commuters should check these platforms before travel to avoid delays or station closures.

How to Make the Most of Dubai Public Transport on New Year

1. Plan your trip early to avoid evening peak crowds
2. Use multi-modal travel options like metro-to-bus or metro-to-tram
3. Carry sufficient balance on your Nol Card
4. Opt for park-and-ride stations with available parking
5. Follow RTA updates and official advisories for smooth commuting

Is Islamic New Year a holiday in UAE

The Islamic New Year, also called Al Hijri New Year, is one of the important public holidays in the UAE. On this day, employees across both public and private sectors get a day off, giving everyone a chance to celebrate, reflect, and spend time with family. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, the holiday date changes every year, sometimes creating long weekends for residents and visitors.

Official Holiday Recognition

In the UAE, the IslamicAl Hijri New Year is officially recognized nationwide. Government offices, schools, and businesses typically close for the day. Al Hijri New Year This ensures that all residents have an opportunity to observe the holiday and take part in family and community celebrations.

When Does the Islamic New Year Occur?

The date of the Al Hijri New Year is determined by the lunar Hijri calendar. Each year, the holiday depends on the sighting of the new crescent moon. For example:

• 2025: 1 Muharram was on Friday, June 27, creating a natural long weekend.
• 2026: Dates will be announced closer to the event, as the exact day depends on the moon sighting.

Because the date moves each year, residents are advised to check official announcements to plan their celebrations.

Extended Weekend Opportunities

When the IslamicAl Hijri New Year falls on or near a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, it often results in a three-day weekend. This allows residents to:

• Travel or take short trips
• Spend quality time with family and friends
• Participate in cultural or religious activities

These long weekends make the holiday even more special, combining tradition with relaxation.

How People Celebrate

The Islamic Al Hijri New Year is a moment for both reflection and celebration. Common ways people observe the day include:

• Family Gatherings: Sharing meals and spending time together
• Community Events: Fireworks, cultural programs, or local celebrations in select areas
• Religious Reflection: Prayers, personal reflection, and marking the beginning of the Al Hijri New Year

While celebrations may differ from city to city, the day is generally peaceful and meaningful, focusing on renewal and family bonds.

FAQs

Final Thought

Dubai’s Al Hijri New Year 2026 celebrations are set to be bigger than ever, with the Burj Khalifa fireworks and citywide festivities attracting visitors from around the world. Extended Metro, tram, bus, and marine services will help everyone move around the city smoothly, making careful planning and checking real-time updates essential.

By using alternative routes, park-and-ride options, and staying aware of station capacities and road closures, attendees can enjoy the celebrations without stress. With these smart travel tips and Dubai’s efficient transport network, ringing in 2026 will be safe, easy, and unforgettable