As Dubai prepares to celebrate this year’s National Day holiday, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a series of significant adjustments to its public transport operations.
These changes aim to accommodate the increased number of commuters and ensure the smooth movement of residents during the long weekend festivities.
This year’s National Day celebrations, which coincide with the Eid Al Etihad long weekend, will see most residents enjoying a four-day break.
The RTA has responded with operational enhancements across various transport services, including the Dubai Metro, Tram, public buses, and water transport, ensuring that everyone—from daily commuters to tourists—has convenient access to the city’s diverse attractions.
Free Parking and Adjusted Metro Timings
One of the standout changes involves public parking. Residents and visitors won’t need to pay for parking in most parts of the emirate during the National Day holidays.
The free parking initiative will apply on December 1 and 2, with the exception of multi-storey parking terminals, where charges will still apply. This move is expected to ease traffic congestion and encourage the use of public transport during the peak holiday period.
The Dubai Metro will operate extended hours over the four-day weekend to cater to the increased demand for travel. On Saturday, November 30, the Metro will run from 5 am until 1 am the next day.
On Sunday, December 1, the service will start at 8 am, with the final train departing at 1 am. Monday, December 2, will follow the Saturday schedule, while Tuesday, December 3, will see trains running from 5 am until midnight.
Similarly, the Dubai Tram will be operating for extended hours, with services starting from 6 am on Saturday and Sunday, continuing until 1 am the following day.
On Monday and Tuesday, the Tram will run from 6 am to 1 am as well, ensuring that commuters have access to public transport throughout the long weekend.
Public Bus Services: Adjustments and Suspended Routes
Dubai’s public bus services will also see changes, with some routes altered or suspended. Passengers who rely on the E100 Bus Route from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Abu Dhabi should note that this service will be suspended from November 29 to December 3.
Travelers heading to Abu Dhabi can use the E101 Route from Ibn Battuta Bus Station during this period. Similarly, the E102 Bus Route from Al Jafiliya Bus Station will be unavailable from November 29 to December 3.
During this time, passengers can use an alternative route departing from Ibn Battuta Bus Station to Mussafah Community.
To ensure smooth connectivity, the RTA has recommended that commuters check the S’hail app for the most up-to-date information regarding route changes and bus schedules during the holiday period.
Enhanced Water Transport Services
Dubai’s water transport network will be fully operational, with several changes designed to accommodate National Day travelers.
The Dubai Ferry and Water Taxi services will provide frequent trips along the city’s waterways, offering a scenic and convenient mode of transport for those looking to avoid road traffic.
Water Taxi services, including the popular route from Marina Mall to Bluewaters, will be available from 4 pm until 11:50 pm, with on-demand services operating between 3 pm and 11 pm.
To ensure smooth operations, the RTA has emphasized the need for advance booking for the on-demand Water Taxi services.
The Dubai Ferry will operate between several key locations, including Al Ghubaiba and the Dubai Water Canal, with departures at 1 pm and 6 pm, as well as from Bluewaters to Marina Mall, providing a refreshing and efficient travel option for tourists and locals alike.
Abras: Timely Service Across the Creek
Dubai’s traditional abras will be running during the holidays, offering a charming way for both residents and tourists to travel across the Creek.
The popular routes, such as those from Old Dubai Souq to Baniyas, will operate from 10 am to 10:50 pm, while other routes like Al Fahidi to Al Sabkha will run from 10 am until 11:15 pm.
In addition to regular services, the RTA is introducing special tourist trips during the National Day weekend.
These will operate along routes such as Al Seef, Al Fahidi, and Baniyas from 4 pm until 10:15 pm, offering visitors a chance to experience Dubai’s cultural heritage while avoiding the traffic congestion on land.
Tourist-Focused Water Transport Operations
Recognizing the influx of tourists during the National Day holidays, the RTA has also ramped up its tourist-oriented transport services.
Tourist trips from Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Design District, and Dubai Festival City will operate from 4 pm until midnight on December 3, catering to the needs of visitors looking to explore the city from a unique vantage point.
The RTA is also offering tourist trips along the waterfront, with routes running from 10 am to 10:05 pm.
These services will connect key destinations like Marasi, Business Bay, and Godolphin, ensuring tourists can travel between Dubai’s main attractions easily during the busy holiday period.
Long Weekend for Residents and Tourists Alike
The adjustments to public transport are part of Dubai’s broader efforts to ensure that National Day celebrations are enjoyable and convenient for all.
The extended operating hours for the Metro, Tram, water transport, and buses reflect the anticipated rise in demand for transport options, particularly as many families take advantage of the long holiday to explore the city’s landmarks and cultural offerings.
The free parking initiative is another welcome relief for residents, many of whom will be attending National Day events or visiting family during the break.
With fewer vehicles on the roads and the additional transport options available, the RTA aims to keep traffic flowing smoothly throughout the long weekend.
Celebrating the UAE’s National Day with Enhanced Mobility
National Day is one of the most significant holidays in the UAE, with celebrations including fireworks displays, concerts, and cultural events taking place across Dubai.
As the city gears up for these festivities, the RTA’s extensive adjustments to transport services demonstrate the authority’s commitment to making the holiday experience as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
As many residents and visitors take part in the celebrations, the ease of movement offered by the RTA’s changes to the public transport network will undoubtedly enhance the holiday experience, whether traveling to local attractions or participating in family events.
The city’s seamless transport system will also accommodate those attending the Sheikh Zayed Festival fireworks in Abu Dhabi, ensuring that residents can enjoy the National Day festivities with ease.
The free parking and extended transport hours will allow both residents and tourists to navigate Dubai efficiently, contributing to a smoother, more enjoyable experience over the long National Day weekend.
As Dubai continues to evolve as a global hub for tourism, business, and culture, the RTA’s strategic enhancements to its public transport services reflect the city’s commitment to ensuring accessibility and convenience for all, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as a city that celebrates innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability.
With these measures in place, Dubai is set to offer both its residents and visitors a memorable and hassle-free National Day celebration, with travel and mobility playing a key role in the festivities.