Dubai Police finalise security plans for New Year’s Eve

Dubai Police have conducted their first planning meeting for the upcoming New Year’s Eve celebrations at Burj Khalifa.

The city’s iconic fireworks display attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators and millions more watching around the world. 

The meeting, held near Burj Khalifa at the Joint Operations Centre, focused on refining security and crowd control measures to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all attendees.

Chaired by Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations and Chair of Dubai's Events Security Committee, the meeting aimed to update security strategies based on previous years' experiences. Al Ghaithi emphasised that New Year’s Eve at Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai’s most high-profile events, attracting global media attention and positioning the city alongside other major international celebrations.

The committee reviewed a variety of logistical concerns to ensure the smooth flow of people and traffic, particularly in and around the Burj Khalifa area.

Discussions focused on the layout of public viewing zones, the placement of entry and exit points, parking arrangements, and transport routes. With large crowds expected, the committee also looked at strategies to efficiently manage families and individuals attending the annual fireworks display.

Key to the planning process is making sure that the flow of people is controlled to avoid congestion, particularly in areas around the Burj Khalifa, which is the focal point of Dubai's New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Major General Al Ghaithi also stressed the importance of hospitality, professionalism, and patience among all event staff. He highlighted that Dubai’s welcoming spirit is essential in making the event a success. “We must ensure that all visitors have a positive experience and feel safe throughout the celebrations,” he said.

He also commended the committee’s growth and its success in managing large-scale events, noting that the team’s increasing expertise will be crucial in addressing the challenges that come with such a high-profile celebration.

The meeting was attended by several key figures, including Mishal Abdul Karim Julfar, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, and representatives from various Dubai government agencies. Highlighting its a collaborative effort from all sectors to ensure the success of this major event.