As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Dubai's Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a series of changes to public transportation and parking services in celebration of Eid Al Fitr 2025. The holiday, which is expected to take place from Saturday, March 29 to Tuesday, April 2, will see free public parking across the city, along with adjusted operating hours for the Dubai Metro, tram services, and other public transport options.
The RTA has confirmed that all public parking in Dubai will be free from Shawwal 1 to 3, which corresponds to March 30 to April 2. However, it is important to note that this free parking offer does not extend to multi-level parking facilities. Regular parking fees will resume on Shawwal 4, which is April 3. This initiative aims to ease transportation for residents and visitors during the festive period, allowing them to enjoy the celebrations without the burden of parking fees.
In addition to free parking, the RTA has revised the operational hours for its public transportation services. The Red and Green Line stations of the Dubai Metro will operate from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM the following day on Saturday, March 29, and from 8:00 AM to 1:00 AM the next day on Sunday, March 30. From Monday, March 31, to Wednesday, April 2, the Metro will return to its earlier schedule of 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
The Dubai Tram will also see adjusted timings during the holiday. It will run from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM on Saturday, March 29, and Monday, March 31, while on Sunday, March 30, services will commence at 9:00 AM and continue until 1:00 AM the following day.
Furthermore, the RTA has cautioned that schedules for customer happiness centers, public buses, and marine transportation services may also be affected during this period. Passengers are encouraged to check the latest updates via the S’hail app or the RTA's website for real-time information regarding service changes.
As the community prepares for Eid Al Fitr, the moon sighting committee is set to announce the official prayer timings on Saturday, March 29. Traditionally, Eid prayers are held 15 to 20 minutes after sunrise. Mohammed Musabeh Ali Dhahi, the executive director of the Charitable Work Sector and General Coordinator of Ramadan Initiatives in Dubai, has confirmed that the official prayer timings will be disseminated to the media and public on this date. According to estimates provided by Sheikh Ayaz Housee, an imam in Dubai, Eid prayers in the city are expected to begin at 6:20 AM, while prayers in Sharjah and Ajman may start at 6:19 AM, and in Abu Dhabi at 6:22 AM.
To accommodate the expected influx of worshippers, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) has prepared over 680 mosques and prayer halls across Dubai for the Eid prayers. This includes 14 large prayer areas located in key locations, alongside 668 smaller mosques situated within residential neighborhoods. Ahmed Darwish Al Muhairi, the Director-General of IACAD, stated that a comprehensive plan has been developed in collaboration with various government agencies and volunteers to manage crowd movement effectively. “This plan will help manage crowd movement, ensure smooth entry and exit, and provide support for the elderly and people of determination,” Al Muhairi emphasized.
As the city gears up for the festivities, the RTA's initiatives reflect a commitment to enhancing the public's experience during this significant time. The combination of free parking and extended public transport hours aims to facilitate easy movement throughout Dubai, allowing residents and visitors to fully engage in the celebrations.
With the holiday approaching, it’s essential for everyone to stay informed about changes to transportation and parking services. The RTA encourages the public to plan ahead and check for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and enjoyable Eid Al Fitr experience.
In summary, the RTA's announcements regarding free parking and revised public transport hours during Eid Al Fitr 2025 highlight the city's efforts to accommodate the needs of its residents and visitors during this important holiday. By providing accessible transportation options, Dubai aims to foster a sense of community and celebration as families and friends come together to mark the end of Ramadan.
