The Dubai Maritime Authority, part of the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, has launched a mandatory plan to manage marine traffic ahead of the 2026 New Year’s Eve celebrations.
This initiative is designed to ensure the highest standards of safety, organization, and smooth movement across Dubai’s waterways during the peak event period. The marine traffic plan will be enforced during peak hours from 10:00 PM on 31 December 2025 until 2:00 AM on 1 January 2026.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed Al Maktoum, Executive Director of the Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), highlighted the Authority’s commitment to managing marine traffic, particularly during busy seasons like New Year’s Eve. The plan aims to ensure safety for sea-goers and those enjoying Dubai’s fireworks displays.
He urged vessel owners, agents, marinas, and yacht clubs to brief their crews and passengers early, emphasizing the importance of following designated routes and maintaining safe distances. A detailed guide with maps, timings, and instructions for marine movements on New Year’s Eve has been issued.
With increased marine traffic expected, the Executive Director highlighted a comprehensive plan featuring a one-way traffic system, scheduled departure and return times based on vessel size, and special arrangements for each marina. This strategy aims to reduce congestion, prevent collisions, and ensure smooth movement in key areas such as Dubai Marina, Dubai Harbour, Palm Jumeirah marinas, and Dubai Water Canal entrances.
Sheikh Dr. Saeed Al Maktoum added that monitoring teams from the Authority, in cooperation with strategic partners, will be stationed in key locations to ensure compliance with the plan.
Vessel movements will also be monitored through AIS tracking systems, cameras, and maritime patrols. Violators will be subject to penalties in accordance with the executive regulations governing vessel licensing in Dubai, including possible suspension of vessel licenses, captains, or crew members.
Image credits: Dubai Maritime Authority | Cropped by GBN
The Dubai Maritime Authority has underscored the need for all marine vessels to comply fully with the issued guidance and marina instructions, and to carefully plan their trips in accordance with designated routes, expected weather conditions, and each vessel’s operational capabilities. The Authority reiterated that navigational safety and adherence to collision-prevention regulations remain top priorities during this period.
As in previous years, the Authority remains committed to ensuring sea-goer safety and smooth marine traffic, with no recorded accidents and a 0 percent incident rate. The Authority, in collaboration with strategic partners, aims to maintain this record, showcasing Dubai’s leadership in organizing large-scale celebrations and its readiness to address risks while ensuring the safety and enjoyment of both visitors and residents.
