As Dubai anticipates its grand New Year’s Eve celebrations, Dubai Police has released a detailed plan outlining road closures in key areas to ensure public safety and the smooth execution of festivities. Familiarize yourself with the following table depicting the areas and timings of road closures on this special night:

These closures are strategically implemented in Downtown Dubai, focusing on popular locations such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and surrounding areas. The restrictions are set to commence at 4:00 PM, well in advance of the anticipated rush for the annual Burj Khalifa fireworks display.

Metro and Tram Services

While the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station is slated to close at 5:00 PM or earlier if capacity is exceeded, the rest of the Metro’s Green and Red line network will operate continuously for an exceptional 40 hours, starting from 8:00 AM on New Year’s Eve. The Dubai Tram will also be in service for the same duration from 9:00 AM.

Enhanced Safety Measures

With a deployment of 10,000 officers across 32 firework display sites, Dubai Police is prioritizing public safety during the festivities. In addition to support tents equipped for lost and found reports, civil defence, ambulance services, and police staff, temporary toilets and food trucks have been strategically placed to enhance the overall visitor experience.

Urgent Reminders

To facilitate the smooth flow of events, attendees are urged to avoid carrying large bags, which may require searches and lead to delays in gaining access to events. Dubai Police emphasized adherence to laws and safety rules, requesting the public to refrain from taking pictures and videos while driving.

As Dubai transforms into a dazzling spectacle for New Year’s Eve, the outlined road closures and safety measures aim to provide residents and visitors with a secure and enjoyable celebration. Plan your routes accordingly, stay informed, and welcome the new year responsibly in the heart of Dubai’s vibrant celebrations!

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas stated that the Palestinian Authority is prepared to resume its responsibilities in Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem, forming a single Palestinian state, contingent on a comprehensive cessation of hostilities, the opening of borders for humanitarian aid, and preventing the forced displacement of Palestinians.

Abbas emphasized the need for a Palestinian state comprising the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem. His remarks come in the context of Egypt proposing a peace plan for post-war scenarios in Gaza. Abbas also reiterated that Fatah, the dominant faction in the Palestinian Authority, remains present in Gaza and is ready to assume governance.

Abbas expressed the devastating impact of the current conflict, describing it as worse than the Nakba of 1948, with extensive destruction and the need for substantial reconstruction efforts estimated in the tens of billions.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has initiated the delivery of potable water from its desalination facilities located in Rafah, Egypt, to shelters in the Gaza Strip.

This effort is part of the ‘Gallant Knight 3’ humanitarian operation, garnering positive reception from Gaza residents. The comprehensive water transfer involves pumping desalinated water from UAE’s Rafah plants to Gaza, facilitated by a newly installed 900-meter pipeline connecting the desalination facilities to the Gaza water network through the Egyptian borders.

Operating at full capacity, the three plants generate around 600,000 gallons of water daily, catering to the needs of approximately 300,000 Palestinians. Launched on November 5, 2023, the ‘Gallant Knight 3’ operation by the UAE aims to provide crucial humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced extended service hours for the Dubai Metro and Tram during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The services will operate continuously for 40 hours, starting from 8 am on December 31 for the Metro and 9 am for the Tram, until the end of January 1 and 1 am on January 2, respectively.

The RTA aims to enhance public convenience by providing a fleet of 230 buses free of charge, reducing traffic congestion. Additionally, around 900 additional parking spaces in Al Wasl and Al Jafiliya have been arranged to accommodate increased vehicles attending the celebrations.

The RTA has also implemented improved signage systems for guidance, including road signs and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) signage for real-time information on road closures and alternative routes.

The initiative reflects the RTA’s commitment to enhancing Dubai’s transportation infrastructure and ensuring the well-being of citizens and guests.

The UAE has undertaken a significant humanitarian effort by sending over 1.6 million pieces of winter clothing and blankets to the Gaza Strip. This initiative, led by the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC) under the ‘Be their Warmth’ campaign, aims to alleviate the challenges faced by Palestinians during the ongoing conflict and severe winter conditions.

The phased distribution of these essential supplies is crucial for those lacking adequate shelter amid dropping temperatures and the persistent Israel-Gaza conflict. The ERC is collaborating with Egypt to ensure the safe passage of aid through the Rafah border crossing, and a public donation campaign is ongoing to gather more winter items.

The UAE’s commitment extends beyond material aid, as the nation advocates for a permanent ceasefire, establishes a field hospital in Gaza, and pledges medical treatment for injured Palestinian children and cancer patients in UAE hospitals.

Additionally, numerous aid flights have been dispatched, delivering thousands of tonnes of essential supplies to Gaza.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is currently experiencing thick fog, leading to red and yellow weather alerts and a reduction in speed limits on certain roads.

The National Centre of Meteorology forecasts fair and partly cloudy weather with a slight decrease in temperatures. Abu Dhabi Police and Dubai Police have issued warnings to motorists about reduced visibility, advising caution and reduced speed.

The fog is expected to persist until 10 am, with low clouds appearing in the east later in the day. Humid conditions with fog or mist are anticipated on Friday morning. Wind speeds will be light to moderate, and temperatures range from 8ºC in mountainous areas to 30ºC in internal regions.

Comedian Jo Koy is making history as the host of the 81st Annual Golden Globe Awards, marking his first time leading the show.

The 52-year-old comedian, known for his roles in “Easter Sunday” and his autobiography “Mixed Plate: Chronicles of an All-American Combo,” expressed excitement, stating it’s a special moment to make his Filipino family proud.

The Golden Globes, a significant event launching Hollywood’s 2024 awards season, celebrates outstanding achievements in television and film. The ceremony, airing on January 7, 2024, on CBS, includes top-nominated productions like “Barbenheimer” and the final season of “Succession.”

The awards show transitions to CBS from NBC, aiming to rebuild credibility amidst past controversies within the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.

H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Qaiwain led the funeral prayer for the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Abdullah bin Saeed Al Mu’alla, who passed away earlier in the day. The ceremony was attended by members of the Al Mu’alla family, senior officials, and both UAE citizens and residents.

Following the prayer, Sheikh Saud, along with dignitaries, proceeded to Umm Al Qaiwain Cemetery for the burial of the late Sheikh Ahmed. Condolences can be expressed at Al Ittihad Hall in Umm Al Qaiwain.