With the G20 Leaders’ Summit at the Johannesburg Expo Centre in Nasrec, Soweto, Joburg is gearing up to welcome world leaders, ministers, and international organisations. While the main event takes place from 22 to 23 November 2025, the high-impact window is likely to be broader, with mentions of potential heavy congestion and traffic disruptions from 13 to 24 November.This landmark event will focus on global economic growth, trade, and sustainable development, placing Johannesburg in the global spotlight. While it’s an exciting opportunity for South Africa, it will bring temporary changes and disruptions for residents, businesses, and visitors, including a swell of blue light cavalcades, heightened security and traffic diversions.
Here’s what you need to know.
Police visibility and heightened security
During the summit, residents and visitors can expect a significant increase in security measures across Johannesburg, especially around Nasrec, major hotels, and key transit corridors. Law enforcement agencies and emergency services will monitor all high-risk areas and enforce access controls. Security measures include:
- Roadblocks and controlled access points to manage traffic and pedestrian flow
- Increased police and emergency service presence to ensure safety and rapid response
- Continuous monitoring by law enforcement and emergency services
- Keep these handy: your driver’s license, if you have one, or your ID card.
- Follow instructions from law enforcement and security personnel at all times.
Traffic disruptions and road closures
Temporary closures and lane restrictions have been announced on major routes in Gauteng (including Joburg) ahead of the G20 summit. For example: closures on N1, N3, N12, Jan Smuts Ave, Rivonia Road, Nasrec Road. Consider alternative modes where possible (e.g., Gautrain or local rail) if you’re going between key nodes (airport-Sandton etc) and want to avoid road-snarls. Learn more
Business Operations
Plan ahead and communicate potential changes. At the same time, hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors are likely to see increased demand from delegates, media teams, and visitors arriving for the summit.
Rosebank safety tips for visitors and locals
The Rosebank security team remains on alert and is prepared to provide support. We appeal to hospitality and retail partners in the neighbourhood to cooperate with security protocols and remain vigilant to ensure the safety of staff, residents, and visitors. RMD’s security detail consists of officers in branded uniforms, branded patrol vehicles, a tactical response team, and 24/7 CCTV surveillance for constant monitoring. Additionally, Tourism Ambassadors in branded uniforms are on-site to assist visitors with way finding and general guidance.
Emergency contact
Call the Rosebank Control Room at +27 83 633 1847 to report any suspicious activity or reach out directly to law enforcement (SAPS or JMPD).
Stay Informed
Follow real-time updates on social media or live traffic channels via apps like Google Maps/Waze but also local radio/traffic-news bulletins. For more on G20, visit https://g20.org