If you only have one goal this New Year’s Eve and that’s to view the Burj Khalifa fireworks, without dropping a Dirham, you’ve come to the right place. So, it turns out VIP viewing packages for the NYE show are starting from AED 997.50? But not for you. You’re still going to get that incredible view, sans the price tag. Because lucky for you I know all the best FREE viewing spots scattered across Downtown Dubai, and I have no plans to keep them a secret. All you have to do is keep reading to find out!
Also read: Dubai Just Turned NYE Into An 8-Day Festival – From December 31 To January 7!
What’s Free This Year?
Downtown Dubai is opening multiple first-come-first-served viewing areas along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard and nearby streets. No ticket, no badge, no fuss. You’ll still get all the NYE magic, I’m talking the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks, dazzling laser displays, and the huge multi-point show that takes over the entire district. Plus, LED screens will be set up across the boulevard so everyone gets a great view.
Where Are The Free Entry Gates?
Each free zone will have dedicated gates, and once an area is full, it closes. Plan ahead!
Public Viewing Gates Include:
- Gate 1: Boulevard Heights
- Gate 2: Burj Vista
- Gate 3: Emaar Square
- Gate 4: Former Address Boulevard
- Gate 5: Fountain Views
- Gate 6: Address Downtown
- Gate 7: Vida Dubai Mall
Need-To-Know-Details For A Smooth NYE Experience
1. What Time Should I Arrive?
If you want stress-free access, aim to reach Downtown before 4pm. Road closures usually start between 3pm and 4pm, and once that happens, no cars can enter the area.
2. Can I Bring Food and Drinks?
Yes. Feel free to pack snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for the free zones. Only Burj Park restricts outside food. Everywhere else? Go for it.
3. Can I Get There Using Buses & The Metro?
- RTA Bus: RTA normally runs free shuttle buses every New Year’s Eve to help manage the crowds. Final routes will be announced closer to the date, so stay tuned to RTA updates.
- RTA Metro: Last year, the Metro and Tram ran for more than 43 hours straight, from the morning of December 31 until late on January 1. Something similar is expected this year. Just remember stations may close temporarily for capacity control. Closest stop? Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall.
4. Where Can I Park My Car If I Drive?
Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis before 4pm.
Public Parking Areas:
- Fashion Parking
- Grand Parking (Junction 01 MBR)
- Boulevard Underground Parking P1/P2/P3
- Cinema Parking
- Zabeel Parking
- Fountain Views Parking
- Emaar Square Parking
- Boulevard Plaza Parking
- Souk Al Bahar
Once roads close, no more cars are allowed in.
5. Can I Watch From Inside Dubai Mall?
Yes! Dubai Mall stays open with free general entry. Those with restaurant reservations facing the promenade will get badges for prime viewing. Everyone else can enjoy the atmosphere, dine inside, and join the festivities indoors.
Where Exactly Is The Show Happening?
The entire Downtown Dubai district turns into one giant celebration, including:
- Burj Khalifa façade – main firework display
- Burj Lake
- Dubai Mall promenade
- Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard
- All public viewing areas
Expect fireworks, lasers, floating stages, aerial performers, and more.
Important Note – Items You Cannot Bring
This part goes without say but to keep the night safe, these items are not allowed anywhere in the free of paid viewing areas for the Burj Khalifa NYE firework show:
- Weapons
- illegal substances
- alcohol
- glass
- fireworks
- drones
- tripods (unless approved)
- pets
- large flags or banners
- outside food (specific to inside Burj Park only).
- reminder that Smoking is allowed only in designated spaces.
So there you have it. No matter if you’re right on the boulevard or tucked into one of the free viewing zones, Downtown Dubai has everything you need to ring in 2026 with unforgettable Burj Khalifa fireworks. Minus the price tag.
