What’s New This Ramadan in the UAE: A Complete Guide

Maryam Pervez -

As Ramadan 1446/2025 approaches, various adjustments will impact work schedules, public transport, parking, school hours, and community activities. The holy month is expected to begin on March 1, with fasting hours ranging from 12 hours 58 minutes at the start to 13 hours 41 minutes by the end.

Salik, Dubai Metro & Parking Updates

  • Salik Toll Rates:
    • Peak hours (9 AM – 5 PM on weekdays): AED 6
    • Off-peak hours (7 AM – 9 AM & 5 PM – 2 AM on weekdays): AED 4
    • Monday – Saturday (2 AM – 7 AM): Free
    • Sundays: AED 4 (7 AM – 2 AM), Free (2 AM – 7 AM)
  • Dubai Metro:
    • Monday to Thursday, Saturday: 5 AM – 12 AM
    • Friday: 5 AM – 1 AM
    • Sunday: 8 AM – 12 AM
  • Dubai Tram:
    • Monday to Saturday: 6 AM – 1 AM
    • Sunday: 9 AM – 1 AM
  • Parking Timings (Monday – Saturday):
    • First Period: 8 AM – 6 PM
    • Second Period: 8 PM – 12 AM
    • Parking is free between 6 PM – 8 PM and all day on Sundays
    • Sharjah: Paid parking from 8 AM – 12 AM

Work Hours & Remote Work Policies

  • Public Sector:
    • Monday – Thursday: 9 AM – 2:30 PM
    • Friday: 9 AM – 12 PM
    • Up to 70% of federal employees can work remotely on Fridays
  • Private Sector:
    • Working hours reduced by two hours per day
  • Flexible & Remote Work in Government:
    • Dubai: Employees can work remotely two days per week, with flexible shifts up to three hours daily
    • Sharjah & Ajman: 9 AM – 2:30 PM, with remote work options

Education & Remote Learning

  • Public Schools: Fridays designated for distance learning (except students with exams)
  • Private Schools (Dubai): Option for remote learning on Fridays, with accommodations for students needing in-person attendance

Parks & Attractions Timings

  • Public Parks & Recreational Areas:
    • Zabeel, Al Khor, Mushrif National Park: 9 AM – 11 PM
    • Safa Park: 12 PM – 10 PM
    • Mamzar Park: 8 AM – 10 PM
    • Children’s City: 9 AM – 4 PM (Weekdays), 11 AM – 4 PM (Weekends)
    • Dubai Parks: Open 8 AM – 1 AM, walking tracks available after Fajr prayers
    • Dubai Frame: 10 AM – 7 PM
    • Global Village: 5 PM – 1 AM (Sunday – Wednesday), 5 PM – 2 AM (Thursday – Saturday)
    • Sharjah Parks: Open 4 PM – Midnight, some until 1 AM

Supermarket Discounts & Community Support

  • Major supermarket chains offering discounts:
    • 50% off on 10,000 products
    • Lulu Hypermarket: 65% off on 5,500 products
    • One retailer announced AED 35 million worth of discounts
  • Permits for late-night business operations now available
  • Restaurants can apply for Ramadan food display permits

Iftar Cannon Locations

  • Dubai Police will place stationary & mobile Iftar cannons across the city
  • Sharjah Police confirmed 10 cannon locations, including Al Majaz Waterfront and various suburb councils
  • Fundraising and donations must be done through licensed platforms
  • Begging is illegal, punishable by up to three months in jail and AED 5,000 fine
  • Organizing begging networks can result in six months’ imprisonment and fines up to AED 100,000
  • Unauthorized fundraising carries fines up to AED 500,000
  • A cold wave in February resulted in a five-degree temperature drop, with cooler weather expected in early Ramadan
  • Increased shopping activity, as families stock up on essentials

With adjusted work hours, transport schedules, and community events, Ramadan in the UAE will see enhanced public services, flexible work policies, and a focus on social responsibility.

News Source: Khaleej Times