Dubai, UAE: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced special arrangements to celebrate the UAE’s 53rd National Day, also known as Eid Al Etihad, offering residents and visitors free parking, extended public transport hours, and revised operational schedules across the city.
The holiday, commemorating the UAE’s foundation in 1971, is set to bring together communities in celebration, with convenient and free transport services provided by the RTA from December 2 to December 3, 2024.
Free Parking for Three Days
- Public Parking: All paid parking zones in Dubai, except for multi-level parking facilities, will be free of charge on Monday, December 2, and Tuesday, December 3.
- Sunday Bonus: With parking already free on Sundays, this offers motorists three consecutive days of free parking from December 1 to December 3.
- Paid parking resumes on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.
Dubai Metro: Extended Operating Hours
Dubai Metro services will run for extended hours during the National Day holidays to accommodate increased passenger demand:
- Saturday, November 30: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
- Sunday, December 1: 8:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
- Monday, December 2: 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
- Tuesday, December 3: 5:00 AM – 12:00 midnight
Regular metro schedules will resume from Wednesday, December 4.
Dubai Tram and Bus Services
Dubai Tram
- Operating hours for the tram will also be extended:
- Saturday, November 30: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
- Sunday, December 1: 9:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
- Monday, December 2: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
- Tuesday, December 3: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM (next day)
Public Buses
- Changes to bus schedules can be accessed via the S’hail app.
- Route Updates:
- The E100 and E102 routes from Al Ghubaiba and Al Jafiliya Bus Stations to Abu Dhabi and Mussafah will be suspended from November 29 to December 3. Passengers are advised to use the E101 Route from Ibn Battuta Bus Station instead.
Marine Transport Options
Water Taxi and Abras
- Water taxis and abras will operate on revised schedules during the holidays, with tourist trips available at prominent locations like Al Seef, Dubai Creek Harbour, and Marina Mall.
- Notable routes:
- Al Ghubaiba – Dubai Water Canal: Services at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
- Dubai Ferry: Various tourist trips will be available between Marina Mall, Bluewaters, and Dubai Water Canal.
- Abras: Operating across routes such as Old Dubai Souq, Deira Old Souq, and Al Fahidi.
Tourist Services
- Popular destinations such as Dubai Design District, Sheikh Zayed Road, and Dubai Festival City will feature expanded maritime schedules to accommodate increased demand.
Closure of RTA Service Centers
- Customer Happiness Centers: Closed from December 2 to December 3.
- Vehicle Testing Centers: Operations will also be suspended during these dates.
Conclusion
The RTA’s adjustments aim to ensure smooth, stress-free transportation during the festive period, enabling residents and tourists to enjoy Eid Al Etihad celebrations with ease. Whether commuting by metro, tram, bus, or boat, Dubai’s extended transport services will cater to the city’s bustling holiday spirit.
For further updates, travelers are encouraged to use RTA’s S’hail app and official communication channels.