Steer clear of traffic as you gear up for NYE festivities in UAE

Dubai - Following a few simple tips will help you avoid spending the first few hours of the new decade stuck in traffic.

People across the UAE are in for a big New Year's Eve treat as the country's skyline - from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah - will dazzle in spectacular fireworks display. Amid all the revelry, following a few simple tips will help you avoid spending the first few hours of the new decade stuck in traffic.
Using public transport, carpooling, reaching your venue early, preparing a list of alternative routes and walking are some of the options that can help you focus more on merrymaking than honking your way to the party and back.
Here are some other tips for you:
> The best way to go to Downtown Dubai is by public transport: Use the Metro, take a bus or taxi. However, bear in mind that Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall Metro Station will be closed from 10pm on Tuesday until 6am the following day (Wednesday). Take the alternative entries via Business Bay or Financial Centre Metro stations. Note also that feeder buses are aligned with the timetable of the Metro services.
> If you're planning to drive to the Downtown area, we advise that you do carpooling. It would be best if you arrive at the Dubai Mall before 2pm as there may still be some parking slots available at the Cinema parking (this is where we usually park). Take note that the Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard will be closed at 4pm while Financial Centre and Al Sokouk roads will be closed at 6pm.
> Don't park vehicles on the streets around event venue, especially on Sheikh Zayed and Al Khail roads
> You can park your car at Zabeel Park, take a taxi to Downtown Dubai or hop on to any of the free shuttle buses going around. After the show, you can again take a shuttle bus or be ready to walk for at least five kilometres to go back to your car
> Walking would be a healthy start to New Year and it will not be boring as you are on foot with thousands of revellers, who are still on high spirits
> There are usually three exits from the Burj Khalifa area: One in front of Burj Khalifa, Business Bay Metro Station, and going towards Dubai Water Canal walkway. Follow the signboards
> When driving back home, avoid the Sheikh Zayed Road, take Al Khail Road instead. Use alternative routes according to the directional signs provided.
> Ask permission to leave work early. Those working in and around Downtown Dubai or Business Bay are advised to leave office earlier than usual
> It will be a long and exciting night, and it's best if you're in top physical and mental condition. Take a nap in the afternoon before heading to watch the fireworks
> Although there are many numerous restaurants, eateries and pop-up food trucks around Downtown area, it is still advisable that you eat at home before the big night
> Wear comfortable and warm clothes
The emirates have prepared truly spectacular events to ring in the new year. In Dubai, residents and visitors are spoilt for choice as there are 25 locations dedicated for pyrotechnics show. Ras Al Khaimah will take the celebrations to another level as it will attempt to break two Guinness World Records: One is the use of the most number of drones to launch fireworks and the other is to establish the longest wall of fireworks at 4km.
The go-to-destination for those living in Sharjah is Al Majaz Waterfront, where revelers can enjoy a 10-minute fireworks display; while Ajman will usher in the new year and new decade with a five-minute pyrotechnics show launched from three areas across the Corniche. Those in Abu Dhabi can head down to Al Maryah Island, Yas Island, Saadiyat Island or Corniche for bursts of lights and colour.

• UAE