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Dubai's NYE 2026: 2.8 Million Riders Mark 13% Surge in Public Transport Use

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority successfully moved over 2.8 million passengers during the 2026 New Year's Eve celebrations, marking a significant 13% increase from the previous year. This achievement was driven by a comprehensive, pre-planned traffic and operational strategy coordinated with multiple security and government partners. The metro remained the backbone of the system, serving nearly 1.25 million riders, while taxis, buses, and marine transport also handled hundreds of thousands of journeys each. The successful operation underscores Dubai's advanced capability in managing large-scale event logistics and ensuring public safety through its integrated transport network.

Key Points: Dubai NYE 2026: Public Transport Serves 2.8M Passengers

  • 13% ridership growth
  • 1.25M metro passengers
  • Integrated traffic plan
  • Reinforced global event hosting
2 min read

Over 2.8 million passengers used public transport on New Year's Eve 2026

Dubai's RTA transported over 2.8 million passengers on New Year's Eve 2026, a 13% increase, showcasing its robust event mobility management.

"The results reflect the readiness and efficiency of the transport system and its ability to ensure smooth mobility and public safety. - Dubai RTA"

Dubai, January 2

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority transported more than 2.8 million passengers during New Year's Eve 2026 celebrations, achieving ridership growth of over 13 per cent.

This was delivered as part of an integrated traffic and operational plan that included the management and regulation of traffic movement and implementation of temporary road closures across the Emirate, in direct coordination with the Dubai Event Security Committee, as well as relevant authorities and strategic partners.

The results reflect the readiness and efficiency of the transport system and its ability to ensure smooth mobility and public safety, while reinforcing Dubai's position as a global destination capable of managing major events in line with the highest international standards.

The total number of users of public transport, taxis, e-hailing services, and shared mobility during New Year's Eve 2026 celebrations exceeded 2,836,859 passengers, marking a 13 per cent increase compared to New Year's Eve 2025, when ridership stood at 2,502,474 passengers.

Metro services on the Red and Green Lines were used by 1,249,636 passengers, while the Dubai Tram carried 58,052 passengers. Public buses and bus-on-demand buses recorded 503,264 passengers during the night. Taxis transported 661,538 passengers, and marine transport services ferried 76,745 passengers across all modes. E-hailing services transported 286,135 passengers, and shared mobility services carried 1,489 passengers.

RTA reaffirmed that the approved traffic and operational plan contributed to ensuring the smooth and safe movement of the public to the celebration sites, within the framework of integrated coordination with the concerned authorities and strategic partners in Dubai.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
That's incredible logistics management. Over 2.8 million people moving safely is no small feat. The 13% growth shows people trust the system. I remember the chaos at Marine Drive last New Year's Eve in Mumbai - we need this level of coordination.
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Priyanka N
While the numbers are impressive, I hope the focus on such mega-events doesn't come at the cost of daily commuter comfort. Sometimes in our rush to show big numbers for special days, the regular citizen's travel experience suffers. A bit of respectful criticism - sustainable planning is key.
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Aman W
The breakdown is fascinating! Metro carrying nearly 1.25 million alone. Dubai really is a model for modern urban transport. Indian cities are expanding metro networks, but last-mile connectivity and integration between different modes still needs work. Jai Hind!
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Kavya N
This shows what proper investment and planning can achieve. Safety for women commuters during such crowded times is also a major concern in India. If systems are efficient and well-staffed, it makes a huge difference. Well done Dubai! 👏
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Michael C
The coordination between different transport modes and authorities is the real story here. In many cities, buses, metros, and taxis operate in silos. This integrated plan is textbook event management. Hope Indian city planners are taking notes.

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