Bali Takes Action to Ensure Safe and Efficient Travel During Christmas and New Year

Published on December 25, 2025

Bali, one of the world’s hottest holiday spots, is once again set for an influx of holidaymakers during the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations. But following the disastrous traffic congestion that characterized the 2023/24 and 2024/25 holiday seasons, officials at all levels, together with the Bali Police, are determined to make all the right arrangements for easier travel for both holidaymakers and locals during the holiday season this year. Indeed, the experiences that holidaymakers were subjected to during the previous holiday season were nothing short of chaotic, with holidaymakers having to evacuate taxis and make a mad dash for their flights.

Addressing the Traffic Crisis: Bali’s Commitment to Improvement

In response to the previous year’s frustrations, Bali’s police have launched a proactive strategy to mitigate the traffic problems that typically arise during the peak holiday season. As the island’s tourism industry continues to boom, the authorities have introduced several measures to address the growing demand for infrastructure and ensure that the movement of tourists remains as smooth as possible.

The province’s police force is actively participating in Operation Lilin Agung 2025, a comprehensive security operation designed to manage both holiday crowds and potential risks. According to AKP Ni Luh Tiviasih, the Head of the Badung Police Traffic Unit, officers are stationed throughout the island to maintain traffic flow and provide public service. Tiviasih emphasized that these efforts are aimed at ensuring safety, order, and reducing the risk of congestion, particularly ahead of religious holidays and the year-end festivities.

Badung Regency, home to popular tourist destinations such as Kuta, Seminyak, Legian, Canggu, and Uluwatu, is expected to see the highest number of visitors during this period. With such a concentration of tourists in a small geographical area, traffic congestion has been a longstanding challenge.

Police Encourage Public Cooperation to Ensure Safety and Smooth Traffic Flow

The local police are calling for the cooperation of both tourists and residents to make this year’s festive travel experience more manageable. AKP Tiviasih has urged the public to adhere to traffic regulations and prioritize safety while driving. She stated, “We ask for your cooperation to ensure traffic remains orderly, safe, and smooth.” This appeal is crucial, as Bali’s streets can become overwhelming, particularly during the busiest times of the year when the island welcomes over a million visitors.

Airport and Weather Challenges: Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport Steps Up

While Bali’s streets are being closely monitored, the airport, which serves as the island’s main gateway for international and domestic travelers, has also heightened its security measures. I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has been working round the clock to ensure that the increasing number of passengers and potential weather challenges don’t disrupt the flow of travel. The airport police, led by First Inspector I Gede Suka Artana, are closely monitoring weather updates from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). This is crucial as Bali is experiencing its rainy season, which brings risks such as flooding and fallen trees that can impede traffic on the roads surrounding the airport.

Artana explained that airport personnel are on standby to deal with any weather-related issues that could arise, such as flooding or falling trees that could obstruct roadways. To mitigate these risks, the airport has implemented safety measures, including regular checks on the readiness of all personnel to handle unexpected situations. The airport is also focused on maintaining optimal conditions to ensure that the large number of travelers can move in and out of the airport safely and efficiently.

Working Together: Bali’s Integrated Command Post

To manage the increase in traffic, both on the roads and at the airport, Bali has established an integrated Command Post that operates 24/7 throughout the holiday season. This joint effort by the Bali Police, TSA, and other government agencies ensures that all departments collaborate seamlessly to deliver an effective response to any traffic or safety issues that arise. Eka Sandi, Head of Communications at Bali Airport, emphasized the importance of this cooperation, saying, “There are several challenges, particularly related to weather factors, during the seven days of this integrated command post service. We ensure that all airport services remain optimal, prioritizing the safety, security, and comfort of all service users.”

This integrated approach is not only focused on maintaining security and safety but also on managing the overall experience of travelers, reducing delays, and ensuring that all services operate smoothly. Bali has seen rapid growth in its tourism sector, and these measures are critical to maintaining a positive reputation for the island as a leading travel destination.

Tips for Travelers During Bali’s Festive Season

Despite the best efforts of local authorities, travelers are still encouraged to be prepared for potential delays due to the high volume of visitors and the unpredictable weather. The island is expected to receive over 1.5 million tourists in the coming weeks, which will undoubtedly strain local infrastructure. The airport and surrounding roads are likely to experience heavy traffic, so tourists are urged to leave plenty of extra time when heading to the airport.

Here are a few key tips for a smooth experience in Bali during the festive season:

• Arrive Early: Expect longer travel times due to potential traffic jams. Plan for extra time to avoid rushing to your flight or destination.
• Check the Weather: As Bali is experiencing heavy rains, stay updated on local weather forecasts, as they can affect travel plans.
• Follow Directions: Always follow instructions from officers in the field. They are there to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.
• Prepare for Flooding: Be aware of the possibility of local flooding, especially in areas with low-lying streets.

Bali’s Tourism Future: Striking the Balance Between Growth and Sustainability

Bali’s tourism sector has surged in recent years, bringing immense economic benefits but also posing significant challenges in terms of infrastructure and crowd management. With local authorities committed to ensuring that tourists have a safe and pleasant experience, Bali’s future tourism strategy will need to focus on balancing growth with sustainability.

As the island continues to attract large numbers of visitors, solutions to congestion and environmental concerns will become even more crucial. This integrated approach to traffic management and airport operations represents a step forward in improving the overall travel experience for everyone visiting Bali.

A Focus on Safe and Enjoyable Travel in Bali

As the holiday season has officially kicked in, Bali is making every effort not to experience traffic congestion that has afflicted the island in previous years. Bali police, airports, and other government institutions are working hand in hand in a bid to ensure that all roads are traffic-free and that tourists can enjoy their stay in the island. Despite a myriad of challenges that the island faces, Bali’s proactive measures will ensure a smooth holiday season.