Dubai is stepping into the Eid Al Etihad long weekend with a travel plan that feels practical and very “Dubai” — smooth, organised and built around the needs of its people. As the city gears up for celebrations across 1 and 2 December, the Roads and Transport Authority has confirmed free public parking and extended Metro, Tram and bus timings.
The holiday period is usually one of the busiest in the UAE, with families planning outings, fireworks shows on the horizon, and winter attractions drawing crowds. With so many plans happening at once, travel becomes a priority. This year’s update gives residents the flexibility to move around the city without worrying about parking meters or last-minute Metro closures.
Dubai’s neighbourhoods take on a festive energy during this week. Roads around Downtown Dubai, JBR, Al Seef, Deira and the beachfront areas often get busier as early as the morning. Free parking and extended public transport help ease that pressure, making it easier for families, tourists and commuters to explore the city at their own pace.
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Free Parking Across the City for the Two-Day Break
Public parking across Dubai will be free on December 1 and 2. This includes regular zones across the city — from residential communities to busy commercial areas. It’s a welcome relief for residents planning long days out, especially in areas like Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Festival City, or Dubai Mall where visits often stretch for hours.
The only exception is multi-storey parking buildings, which will remain paid throughout the holiday. These buildings are usually located in high-demand spots where parking turnover needs to be managed.
Parking regulations will return to normal on December 3.
For many, this small change adds up to big convenience. Holiday gatherings, citywide events, winter markets and children’s activities fill the long weekend calendar. Not having to track parking timings or top-up sessions gives people more freedom to enjoy their day.
Metro Hours Extended for Holiday Movement
The Dubai Metro will run longer hours to support the increase in holiday traffic. With the weather cooling down and the city bustling with activity, Metro stations are expected to be lively throughout the day and well into the night.
The updated operational hours offer comfortable flexibility for people heading to crowded districts or attending late-evening events.
Dubai Metro timings (Red and Green Lines):
December 1–2: 5:00 am to 1:00 am (next day)
These extended hours support everything from late-night dining in Downtown Dubai to evening fireworks or community events across the city. High-traffic stations like Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, DMCC, Union and BurJuman usually see increased footfall during national holidays, making extended service especially helpful.
Tram and Bus Services Aligned With Holiday Activity
Dubai Tram will also follow longer service hours on both holiday dates — a move that directly benefits residents and tourists heading toward Marina, JBR and Bluewaters Island. These areas experience heavy demand during long weekends, and the tram remains one of the most reliable ways to move around without navigating Marina traffic.
Dubai Tram timings:
December 1–2: 6:00 am to 1:00 am
Public buses will operate additional trips during peak movement times, especially on routes connecting key Metro stations and high-density districts. This ensures that neighbourhoods not directly served by the Metro remain well connected during the holiday.
Bus services are often crucial for families living in residential hubs such as Al Nahda, Oud Metha, Mankhool, Satwa and Karama, where holiday outings typically begin with a short bus ride to the nearest station.
Smart Centres Stay Operational While Traditional Centres Close
Customer Happiness Centres will be closed on December 1 and 2, except for Smart Centres located in Umm Ramool, Al Barsha, Deira, Al Twar and the RTA Headquarters. These centres operate around the clock throughout the year and continue to serve residents digitally during the holiday.
Vehicle testing centres, which many rely on for annual registration, will also be closed for both days. Anyone with upcoming deadlines is advised to plan ahead and avoid last-minute congestion once services reopen on December 3.
for Residents Planning the Long Weekend
The Eid Al Etihad holiday marks a moment of celebration across the UAE — and Dubai, in particular, becomes a hub of cultural events, family gatherings, public shows and outdoor activities. The RTA’s updated schedule supports this festive movement in every way.
Residents can expect smoother travel, shorter queues at transport hubs and ease of access to popular locations. Shopping destinations tend to extend their operating hours during this weekend, which aligns perfectly with extended Metro and Tram services.
Dubai’s streamlined transport plan reflects how the city prioritises comfort during major celebrations. Every detail, from parking to late-night metro movement — plays a role in creating a stress-free holiday experience.
Dubai’s Eid Al Etihad 2025 transport schedule offers everything residents need for a smooth and enjoyable long weekend. Free parking across the city, extended Metro and tram hours, and flexible bus services make it easier for everyone to explore the holiday atmosphere without worrying about logistics.
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