Free Parking in Dubai & Abu Dhabi for UAE National Holidays | What You Need to Know
Free Parking in Dubai & Abu Dhabi for UAE National Holidays: As the UAE gears up for major national holidays such as the UAE National Day, many residents and visitors look forward to a welcome perk, free parking across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Authorities often suspend parking fees to make it easier for everyone to join celebrations, visit malls, parks, and enjoy public events without worrying about parking costs.
When & Where Parking Becomes Free
Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)
- For 2025, the RTA has confirmed free public parking in Dubai for the duration of the holiday (National Day / Eid Al Etihad) specifically Monday and Tuesday, December 1–2.
- The waiver applies to “public parking areas,” but multi-storey car parks (and certain paid zones like Al Khail Gate N-365) remain paid.
- Parking charges resume once the holiday ends (in this case, from Wednesday, December 3).
Abu Dhabi Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) / Abu Dhabi Mobility
- In Abu Dhabi, public parking under the “Mawaqif” system is free for the holiday period. For National Day 2025, parking is waived from the start of the holiday until early Tuesday morning after the break.
- In addition to parking, toll charges under the local toll system (e.g. “Darb” tolls) are also suspended during the holiday days.
- Truck parking in areas like Musaffah (M-18) is also included under the free-parking scheme during the holiday.
As a result, both cities make it easier for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy public spaces, shopping, leisure, and events without parking costs during the festive break.
What This Means for Drivers & Residents
- Cost saving: For frequent visitors to malls, parks, or event venues, free parking can save a significant amount especially in busy areas.
- Convenience during holidays: No need to hunt for paid parking or worry about topping up meters — ideal for spontaneous outings or longer stays.
- Easier access for tourists & visitors: Visitors unfamiliar with the parking rules get relief, encouraging more footfall to popular destinations.
- Reduced stress around tolls & fees (in Abu Dhabi): With toll gates suspended, commuting across parts of the emirate becomes cheaper and more convenient.
What to Keep in Mind | Exceptions & Rules
- Multi-storey and premium car parks may still charge. In Dubai, suspended parking applies to “public parking areas” but many multi-storey car parks, private garages, and paid zones remain chargeable.
- Residential or restricted parking zones may still be regulated. Even during holidays, some zones (especially resident-only or restricted areas) may enforce rules or special permit requirements.
- Traffic congestion risk: With easier and cheaper parking, public spaces, malls, and popular districts may get crowded. Be prepared for delay especially near event venues or tourist areas.
- Respect parking and traffic laws: Free parking doesn’t mean chaos. Don’t block roads, avoid no-parking zones, and follow signage/staff instructions to avoid fines.
Smart Tips to Make the Most of this Policy
- Plan early: Popular malls, parks and public destinations tend to get busy quickly. Arrive early to secure good parking spots.
- Use public transport where possible: Combine free parking with metro/tram/bus to avoid traffic and enjoy the day better. For instance, in Dubai metro and tram services often run extended schedules during holidays.
- Check parking area type: Before parking confirm if it’s a “public parking area” (free) or a paid/multi-storey lot (still charged).
- Be mindful of holiday end times: Fees resume after the holiday ends make sure to leave or pay accordingly if you overstay.
- Share rides or carpool: With tolls waived in Abu Dhabi and parking free, grouping up can save even more especially for families or friend groups.
Why This Policy Matters
Free parking during national holidays underscores the UAE’s commitment to making celebrations inclusive and accessible for all residents and visitors. It encourages people to explore cities, support local businesses, enjoy public events, and spend quality time with family and friends, without burdening them with extra costs.
For households, it offers a break from regular expenses. For businesses, malls, and entertainment venues, it boosts foot traffic and helps the hospitality sector during the festive period. For the community at large, it creates a festive, welcoming atmosphere where citizens and visitors alike can participate in national celebrations freely.
In short: free parking in Dubai especially around celebrations like National Day or Eid is more than a convenience. It’s part of the UAE’s broader effort to foster unity, joy, and accessibility for everyone.
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