A Guide to Traffic and Parking in Dubai during New Year
Dubai becomes a World of Wonders when the Near Year festival comes across. The city becomes truly alive on New Year’s Eve, with all the streets bustling with excitement. But, these glorious times come with some challenges, and it’s not easy for the local authorities to regulate them until the tourists and the natives follow the rules and guidelines properly. The major challenge for the government during the New Year is to run traffic and provide ample space for vehicles to park. That’s where we would love to make your understanding of the nature of streets by a guide to traffic and parking in Dubai during New Year. So that you would not fall into any difficulties and face any problems while enjoying your holidays with family.
Understanding Traffic Patterns during New Year
The local authorities will mandate some traffic patterns for the occasion of the New Year celebration near some major sites like Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa. Some roads would be closed for vehicle entrance after a particular time in the evening on New Year’s Eve and would remain blocked till some hours after midnight to avoid sudden rushes on the streets. Those who booked the Dubai new year package should check teh traffic condition before stepping out. Thus, you must be cautious with the timings of these places and be updated when you go there, as you might have to walk a long distance in a big crowd if you arrive late after the closure of the streets. You might have to park your cars very far away or even get into a situation of not finding any place to park. Here are some factors for you to regulate:
What to Avoid
1. No-Go Zones
You should be updated with the Road and Transport Authority (TRA) announcements to avoid entering into any restricted or closed sections and road closures with your vehicles. Although the streets will be heavily patrolled by police authorities to guide the people, be safe.
2. Increased Traffic Volume
Tourists who arrive in the city for the New Year celebration will probably head toward a popular destination to enjoy their time and watch the colorful sky shots at midnight. Major locations such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach, and Burj Khalifa will be full of energetic people. So you can expect heavy congestion on the streets for both vehicles and pedestrians, increasing every hour till midnight. So plan your destination arrival time accordingly, allowing you ample time to reach on time with fewer difficulties.
3. Driving Under the Influence
Although you would be in a mood and have a jolly time with your friends and families, this doesn’t mean it would be legal to drive under the influence of liquor. Dubai has zero tolerance for drinking and driving. Plan for a safe ride home.
What to Prefer during Heavy Traffic?
1. RTA Buses and Taxis
The Road and Transport Authority will make available more buses and taxis for the public, which are much more convenient than booking your vehicle for the day as you will be free from the headache of parking the vehicle.
2. Metros
Metros are a better deal than buses and taxis, as they would get stuck in any kind of traffic jam and also will not overcharge for the special day. They are cost-effective and convenient, and they will keep operating till 2 or 3 AM after New Year’s midnight.
3. Arriving Early
The authorities will start blocking roads and major pathways to popular destinations of the city in the evening, and you might face challenges in finding a spot for your vehicle. It is advised to arrive early to your preferred destination to ensure a parking spot and entrance to your car.
Parking Strategies
1. Free Parking by the Road & Transport Authority
As per reports, RTA typically offers free parking on New Year’s Eve across most public parking areas. This helps to ease the burden on the people and encourages them to enjoy themselves without worrying about parking their vehicles for long hours.
2. Best Parking Location in Dubai
Be assured that free parking means more traffic on the road, and there will be more difficulties in finding a parking spot due to high demand. Here are some strategic locations that you can consider to park your vehicles as soon as possible:
- Downtown Dubai: If you are heading for the Burj Khalifa, then be careful; the parking fills up here very quickly. The Dubai Mall is also a good option, but arriving early is crucial.
- Jumeirah Beach: There are a lot of parking facilities across this beach as associated with Palm Island. Park here and enjoy New Year with a great view of fireworks while relaxing on the beach.
- Dubai Marina: A lot of public and private parking areas are available, but private parking can be costly and reserved in advance.
- Dubai Festival City: This place also offers ample parking space with a spectacular fireworks show at midnight.
Parking Charges
While most of the parking spaces will be free during the New Year celebrations, but its better to double-check the parking policies for the chosen destination, as some venues, hotels or restaurants may induce premium rates for the busy night. Although Dubai is safe for cars, still it’s better to keep an eye on your vehicle if possible, especially in crowded areas, to avoid any issues.
Conclusion
Celebrating New Year with joy and entertainment in Dubai is an absolute must-do! Select the places of your choice; plan up your trip weeks ago to exclude any problems and enjoy your holiday stay in Dubai. Make sure to choose the correct mode of transport during New Year’s Eve according to your needs and have a smooth sailing party.
