Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that all public parking areas in the city will be free of charge on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, in celebration of the New Year’s holiday. However, multi-storey parking facilities will remain chargeable. Paid parking services will resume as normal on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Extended Metro and Tram Services
To accommodate holiday revelers, the Dubai Metro and Tram will operate nonstop for over 43 hours. Dubai Metro services will run continuously from 5 a.m. on December 31, 2024, until the end of January 1, 2025. Similarly, Dubai Tram will operate from 6 a.m. on December 31 until 1 a.m. on January 2.
Public Bus Service Adjustments
The RTA has announced temporary suspensions for certain intercity bus routes. The E100 route from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station and the E102 route from Al Jafiliya Bus Station will be suspended between December 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025. Passengers traveling to Abu Dhabi or Shabiya Musaffah are advised to use Route E101 from Ibn Battuta Bus Station during this period.
Marine Transport Timings
Marine transport services will operate with specific schedules during the New Year’s holiday:
- Water Taxis: On-demand services will require prior booking and operate between 3 p.m. and 11 p.m. Other routes, such as Marina Mall to Bluewaters (BM3), will run from 4 p.m. to midnight.
- Dubai Ferry: Various routes, including Al Ghubaiba to Dubai Water Canal and Bluewaters to Marina Mall, will have scheduled trips throughout the holiday.
- Abras: Traditional Abra services will operate on adjusted timings, with routes such as Dubai Old Souq to Baniyas running from 11 a.m. to 11:50 p.m.
- Tourist Trips: Special trips will be available at destinations like Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Festival City, and Marina Mall.
Customer Service and Centre Closures
RTA-affiliated service provider centres and Customer Happiness Centres will remain closed on January 1, 2025. Normal operations will resume on January 2, 2025.
Travel Advice
With extensive transport services and free public parking available, residents and visitors are encouraged to plan their journeys in advance to make the most of the holiday. The RTA’s measures aim to ensure smooth transportation and an enjoyable New Year’s celebration for all.
