If your New Year’s Eve mission is simple — to watch the iconic Burj Khalifa fireworks without spending anything — you’re in the right place. While premium viewing zones come with a price tag, Downtown Dubai is opening multiple free, first-come-first-served areas where you can enjoy the full spectacle without paying a Dirham.
All you need is the right plan, the right spot, and the right timing. Here’s everything you must know before you head out.
What’s Free This Year?
Downtown Dubai is setting up several open-access viewing areas along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard and surrounding streets.
No ticket. No badge. No fees.
These zones offer front-row views of:
- Burj Khalifa fireworks
- Laser & light shows
- A district-wide multi-point performance
- LED screens along the boulevard for clear visibility
It’s the full NYE experience — completely free.
Free Entry Gates to Access the Viewing Zones
Once a zone fills up, its gate closes, so arriving early is essential.
Public Viewing Gates:
- 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
Choose the closest one to your preferred viewing area and plan your route ahead of time.
Key Tips for a Smooth NYE Experience
1. When Should You Arrive?
Aim to reach Downtown before 4 pm.
Road closures typically begin between 3 pm and 4 pm — once closed, cars cannot enter the district.
2. Can You Bring Food & Drinks?
Yes.
Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are allowed in all free zones. The only restriction applies inside Burj Park (which requires a ticket).
3. Getting There by Metro or Bus
RTA Metro:
Last year, Metro services operated for over 43 hours straight. Similar extended timings are expected. Stations may close temporarily for crowd control.
Closest stop: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall
RTA Buses:
Free shuttle buses usually run on NYE. Updated routes will be announced by RTA closer to the event.
4. Where to Park for Free?
Free parking is available until 4 pm at:
- Fashion Parking
- Grand Parking (Junction MBR 01)
- Boulevard Underground P1/P2/P3
- Cinema Parking
- Zabeel Parking
- Fountain Views Parking
- Emaar Square Parking
- Boulevard Plaza Parking
- Souk Al Bahar
After road closures, no additional vehicles are allowed inside.
5. Can You Watch From Inside Dubai Mall?
Yes.
Dubai Mall remains open with free entry.
Restaurant guests with promenade-facing reservations receive viewing badges. Everyone else can dine, explore and join the NYE atmosphere indoors.
Where the Show Really Happens
The entire Downtown Dubai district becomes one massive celebration, including:
- Burj Khalifa façade (main firework show)
- Burj Lake
- Dubai Mall promenade
- Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard
- All designated public viewing areas
Expect lasers, fireworks, aerial performers, floating stages and immersive visual elements filling the night sky.
Items You Cannot Bring
To ensure safety across all viewing zones, the following are prohibited:
- Weapons
- Illegal substances
- Alcohol
- Glass items
- Fireworks
- Drones
- Tripods (unless approved)
- Pets
- Large flags or banners
- Outside food in Burj Park (ticketed zone only)
Smoking is allowed only in designated areas.
Your Free Ticket to the Biggest NYE Show in the World
Whether you’re standing along the boulevard or inside one of the official free zones, Downtown Dubai offers everything you need to welcome 2026 with a spectacular, cost-free view of the Burj Khalifa fireworks.
Just arrive early, pick your gate, and let the night take over.
