Hijri New Year Brings Parking Perks

Free Parking for Hijri New Year? Here's the Situation in Sharjah and Dubai

With the Hijri New Year approaching, many residents are questioning whether there will be free public parking in the United Arab Emirates. The answer depends on where you want to park – and specifically which city.

Sharjah: Free, but Only in Certain Places

According to the official announcement by the Sharjah City Council, on June 27, 2025, Friday – for the occasion of the Islamic New Year – most public parking will be free to use. This measure provides relief to the residents and visitors of the city, as parking on Fridays is generally free in most zones.

An important exception, however, is the “blue zones” – these are areas where parking fees are mandatory all week, including public holidays. In these zones, fee payment remains effective from 8 AM until midnight, so parking fees will still apply on the day of the Hijri New Year.

City management encourages drivers to pay attention to the signs displayed at parking spots, as failure to pay parking fees may result in well-known parking fines – even on holidays.

Dubai: Also Free Parking, with Some Exceptions

Cool news has also arrived from Dubai: according to the announcement by the transport authority, all public parking spaces – except multi-level car parks – will be free on June 27, Friday. This is part of the official public holiday extending to both public and private sectors to celebrate the Islamic New Year.

Parking fee payment will resume on the next day, June 28, Saturday, according to the usual schedule.

Public Transport Schedule in Dubai

The Dubai Metro and the Dubai Tram will also offer extended operating hours for passengers on the holiday:

Dubai Metro: On June 27, Friday, it will operate from 5 AM until 1 AM the next day, June 28.

Dubai Tram: It will also run from 6 AM until 1 AM on June 27.

This can be particularly useful for those heading to festive events or shopping, as less traffic and more convenient parking options are expected.

Summary

During the Hijri New Year's celebration, both Sharjah and Dubai introduce significant relaxations in parking regulations, but it's wise to stay alert:

In Sharjah, fees still apply in blue zones.

In Dubai, multi-level car parks are not included in the free offer.

Traffic might be smoother, but knowing the exact local regulations is crucial.

The festive period offers an opportunity for relaxation and city activities, but it's always wise to check exactly where and how long the discounts apply – to avoid turning relaxation into parking fines.

(Source of the article: Sharjah Municipality announcement.)