As Eid Al Fitr approaches, the UAE is quietly powering up behind the scenes to make sure supermarket shelves stay full and food reaches homes fresh, safe, and on time.

The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has announced that all entry points across the country, land, sea, and air, are now operating at full capacity. The goal is simple: keep food flowing smoothly as demand rises during one of the busiest times of the year.

System working around the clock

In the days leading up to Eid, import activity naturally surges. To keep up, authorities have rolled out a proactive plan that includes additional inspection teams, specialised technical staff, and faster clearance systems.

Teams are working 24/7 to inspect and process shipments, ensuring that essential imports like fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat move quickly from ports to markets.

Behind the scenes, a centralised operations system is connecting all border points in real time. This allows different authorities to coordinate instantly, reducing delays and improving efficiency across the supply chain.

Speed without compromise

While speed is a priority, officials stress that food safety remains non-negotiable.

Every shipment goes through strict checks, including:

• Verification of official documents
• Tracking of product origin
• Laboratory testing when required
• Immediate rejection of any non-compliant goods

This means that even with faster processing, quality and safety standards remain firmly in place.

Strong supply numbers already

The scale of operations is significant. Since the start of the year, authorities have processed more than 1,400 livestock consignments, totalling over 441,000 animals. Alongside this, thousands of tonnes of fresh produce have entered the country, helping maintain stable supply levels.

Recent days have seen particularly smooth import operations, with officials confirming that systems are handling the increased Eid demand without disruption.

Markets ready for celebration

For consumers, all of this effort translates into well-stocked stores, fresh food options, and stable availability during the festive period.

Officials describe border entry points as the “first line of defence” not just for protecting food safety, but also for ensuring continuity of supply across the nation.

With fast-track clearance channels, increased manpower, and seamless coordination in place, the UAE is positioning itself to meet holiday demand efficiently—so residents can focus on celebrating Eid without worrying about shortages.

Planning to head out this Eid? Whether you’re visiting family, going mall-hopping or planning a road trip, here’s your all-in-one travel guide across the UAE.

Abu Dhabi: Free parking, no toll fees

In Abu Dhabi, travel just got easier:

• Free public parking from March 19–22
• No Darb toll charges during the same period
• Paid parking resumes March 23

Perfect for stress-free city driving during Eid.

Sharjah: 3 days of free parking

In Sharjah:

• Free parking on first 3 days of Eid
• Paid zones still apply in some smart parking areas

Sharjah: More buses, less waiting

The Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority is rolling out:

• 4,600 intercity bus trips
• Buses every 5 minutes during peak hours
• Extended hours at Al Jubail Bus Station

Ideal if you’re travelling between emirates without driving.

Dubai: Metro, malls and movement

In Dubai:

• Dubai Metro and public transport will run on extended Eid schedules
• Expect heavy crowds near malls, beaches and tourist hotspots
• Plan trips early or travel during off-peak hours

Dubai: Beach and traffic tips

• Some beaches are family-only zones
• Parking near popular areas will fill up fast
• Use public transport where possible

Taxis across UAE

Across all emirates:

• Taxis available 24/7
• Options include family taxis, ladies-only and accessible vehicles
• Expect higher demand during peak Eid hours

Travel tips 

• Leave early to avoid traffic
• Use transport apps for live updates
• Always check parking signs (especially in Sharjah & Dubai)
• Travel late evening for less congestion

This Eid, getting around the UAE is easier, with:

• Free parking in Abu Dhabi & Sharjah
• More buses and reduced wait times
• Extended metro and taxi services

So whether you’re heading to a mall, beach or another emirate, you’re covered.

If you’re driving around Abu Dhabi this Eid, here’s some great news.

Authorities have announced free public parking and suspended toll charges across the emirate during the Eid Al Fitr holiday, making travel easier and more affordable for residents.

Free parking

Under the “Mawaqif” system, public parking will be free from Thursday, March 19 to Sunday, March 22.

Paid parking will resume on Monday, March 23.

Truck parking at Musaffah M-18 will also be free during the holiday period.

No Toll

The Q Mobility has confirmed that Darb toll gate fees will be completely suspended during the same period.

That means:

• No toll charges from March 19 to 22
• Regular charges return on March 23

Customer Centres closed

Customer Happiness Centres will remain closed during the Eid break and will reopen on March 23.

However, residents can still access services 24/7 through:

• TAMM platform
• Darb mobile app
• Official websites and helpline

Whether you’re heading out for Eid prayers, visiting family, or exploring the city, this temporary waiver means:

• Lower travel costs
• Easier movement across the city
• Less stress during busy holiday days