As Eid Al Fitr approaches in 2025, the UAE is gearing up for a festive break, and that means good news for drivers and commuters! Authorities across the emirates have announced free parking timings and tweaked public transport schedules to make the holiday smoother for everyone. Here’s a simple, friendly rundown of what’s happening, based on the latest updates as of March 29, 2025.
Free Parking: Where and When
No need to dig for coins this Eid—public parking is free in most spots across the UAE from Shawwal 1 to Shawwal 3 (exact dates depend on the moon sighting, likely starting March 30 or 31). Here’s the breakdown by emirate:
Dubai: All public parking is free from Shawwal 1 to 3, except for multi-level parking terminals. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) says paid parking kicks back in on Shawwal 4. So, park easy and enjoy the festivities!
Abu Dhabi: Surface parking bays under the Mawaqif system are free from March 30 (if Eid starts then) through April 2, according to the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). Fees resume April 3. Watch out, though—don’t block traffic or park in resident-only spots from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Sharjah: Free parking runs from Shawwal 1 to 3, but not everywhere. Sharjah Municipality says zones with blue signs (seven-day paid areas) still charge, so check before you park.
Ajman: Ajman Municipality’s got you covered—free parking from Shawwal 1 to 3, with fees starting again on Shawwal 4. No exceptions mentioned, so it’s a full freebie here!
Heads up: Exact dates hinge on the moon sighting, expected to be confirmed this weekend. Keep an eye on official announcements!
Public Transport: New Schedules
With families out celebrating, public transport’s getting a holiday tweak. Here’s how it’s shaping up:
Dubai Metro: Extended hours to keep the fun going! Both Red and Green Lines run:
Saturday, March 29: 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. (next day)
Sunday, March 30: 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. (next day)
Monday, March 31 to Wednesday, April 2: 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. (next day)
Dubai Tram: Rolling with the festive vibe:
Saturday, March 29 to Monday, March 31: 6 a.m. to 1 a.m. (next day)
Sunday, March 30: Starts at 9 a.m., runs to 1 a.m. (next day)
Dubai Buses: Main stations like Gold Souq and Al Ghubaiba will adjust to demand, with some routes—like E100 from Al Ghubaiba—pausing from Ramadan 28 afternoon to Shawwal 3. Check the S’hail app for specifics.
Abu Dhabi Buses: Public buses stick to the weekend schedule, but ITC’s boosting regional and intercity trips based on how busy it gets. Abu Dhabi Express and Link buses run 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily during the break.
Sharjah Buses: More trips are planned, with the fleet expanding to 789 buses, says the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority. Exact times aren’t out yet, but expect a beefed-up service.
Ajman Buses: Internal lines run 6 a.m. to midnight, with inter-emirate routes (like to Dubai or Sharjah) following set holiday schedules—details are on Ajman Transport Authority’s site.
Extra Holiday Perks
Darb Toll Gates (Abu Dhabi): Free from March 30 (if Eid starts) to April 2, reactivating April 3 during peak hours (7-9 a.m. and 5-7 p.m.).
Parks and Fun: Ajman’s opening all public parks for Eid, with spots like Al Rashidiya Park welcoming visitors afternoon to evening. Perfect for a family day out!
Why It Matters
This is all about making Eid a breeze—free parking saves cash, and longer transport hours mean you can visit loved ones or hit the celebrations without stress. It’s a busy time, though, so plan ahead and double-check dates once the moon’s sighted. For the latest, peek at official sites like Dubai RTA, Abu Dhabi ITC, or Sharjah Municipality.
Wishing you a joyous Eid Al Fitr—may it be full of good food, great company, and easy travels! Eid Mubarak!