If you have ever stood in the heart of Downtown Dubai, neck craned toward the Burj Khalifa as the clock strikes midnight, you know that the energy is unlike anything else on earth. The sheer scale of the fireworks, the light shows, and the millions of people gathered together is enough to take your breath away. But this year, instead of just being another face in the crowd, the Dubai Police volunteer program is giving you the chance to be the heartbeat behind the entire operation.
Dubai Police have officially opened doors for residents to join their ranks for the New Year’s Eve 2026 celebrations. It’s a rare opportunity to see the inner workings of how this city pulls off one of the most complex security and hospitality feats in the world. Whether you’re a social butterfly who loves helping tourists or a creative soul with a camera, there is a spot for you in this massive community effort. This isn’t just about watching the show; it’s about making sure the show goes on safely for everyone involved.
#News | Join 1,100+ Volunteers Supporting Dubai Police’s New Year’s Eve Efforts
— Dubai Police???? ??? (@DubaiPoliceHQ) December 25, 2025
Details: https://t.co/MopAkGqMon #SocialResponsibility #Volunteering pic.twitter.com/Crd3GO4TkB
Seven Ways to Give Back
The Dubai Police volunteer initiative isn’t a one-size-fits-all role. They’ve designed seven distinct paths to make sure every volunteer can contribute where they feel most comfortable and effective. This diversity in roles is what makes the program so successful every year.
1. The Cavalry Teams For those who want to add a touch of traditional prestige to their night, you can work alongside the famous Dubai Mounted Police. It’s a ceremonial and operational role that truly captures the heritage of the UAE. You’ll be helping manage areas where horses provide a unique vantage point and a friendly, approachable presence for families.
2. Bicycle Patrols If you prefer staying active and on the move, the bicycle teams are essential. These volunteers patrol celebration zones on two wheels, ensuring they can navigate through tight crowds where cars simply cannot go. It’s a fast-paced role that keeps you right in the center of the action.
3. The Creative Eye: Photography Are you skilled with a DSLR or a high-end mirrorless camera? Dubai Police needs storytellers. Your job will be to document the night—not just the explosions of color in the sky, but the “behind-the-scenes” dedication of the teams and the joy of the public. These photos often become part of the official archive of the city’s history.
4. Positive Spirit Teams This is the perfect role for the extroverts among us. The Positive Spirit team focuses entirely on the vibe. You’ll be engaging directly with the public, spreading cheer, answering questions, and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. Think of yourself as the city’s official ambassador for the night.
5. Hatta Volunteering Not everyone wants to be in the middle of the Downtown skyscraper canyons. For those who love the rugged beauty of the mountains, you can support the festivities in Dubai’s scenic Hatta enclave. It’s a different pace but equally important, ensuring that visitors to the Hatta dams and highlands have a safe and memorable start to the year.
6. General Support and Crowd Management These are the essential “boots on the ground.” You’ll be stationed at high-traffic sites like the Burj Khalifa area, Dubai Festival City, or the city’s popular beaches. Your role involves assisting with guest services, providing directions, and helping the flow of the crowd so that everyone can enjoy the view without the stress.
7. Remote Administrative Work If you want to contribute but can’t physically be on-site, there’s even a path for you. Remote volunteers provide the logistical and administrative backbone that keeps the frontline teams running like clockwork. From data entry to communication support, this role is the glue that holds the operation together.
The Logistics: How to Secure Your Spot
The response to this call for volunteers is always massive. Last year, over 1,100 people signed up, and for 2026, the numbers are expected to be even higher. Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Mansouri, Director of the General Department of Community Happiness, has emphasized that this initiative helps foster a deep sense of community responsibility. It’s about residents taking ownership of their city’s safety and reputation.
Key Dates to Remember:
- Application Deadline: You must register by Sunday, December 28, 2025.
- Duty Start Time: Selected volunteers will begin their shifts at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, December 31.
- The Portal: Applications are handled through the official Dubai Police volunteering portal (dubaipolice.gov.ae).
When you sign up, make sure your profile is complete with your Emirates ID and up-to-date contact information. The selection process moves quickly because the training and briefing for such a massive event need to happen in the final days of the year.
In many cities, volunteering is just a hobby. In Dubai, it’s a culture. We live in a melting pot of over 200 nationalities, and events like New Year’s Eve are the rare moments where everyone comes together for a single purpose. By becoming a Dubai Police volunteer, you aren’t just a helper; you are a partner in the city’s success.
There is a certain pride that comes with wearing the volunteer vest. You’ll find yourself helping a lost tourist find the best metro link, or perhaps assisting an older couple in finding a seat with a good view. These small interactions are what make Dubai feel like a community rather than just a global hub. Plus, the view from the “inside” is something you’ll be talking about for years to come.
A Smooth Evening for Everyone
The primary goal for Dubai Police is to ensure the evening remains a pleasant experience for every resident and visitor. To accommodate millions across sites like Naif and Palm Jumeirah, the volunteer program is vital. It provides the essential manpower to bridge official security and the public with a friendly, approachable presence.
Whether patrolling by bike or assisting remotely, your support allows emergency services to focus on critical tasks while you ensure the event flows smoothly through hospitality and guidance.
Don’t Wait—Apply Now!
If you have been looking for a way to give back to the city that gives us so much, this is it. It’s an evening of hard work, yes, but it’s also an evening of incredible reward. Standing in the middle of a crowd of happy people as the clock hits midnight, knowing you played a part in making it happen, is a feeling like no other.
Head over to the portal before the Sunday deadline and pick the path that suits you best. Let’s make the 2026 New Year’s Eve celebration the safest and most joyful one yet!
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