Connect with us

News

Earth Hour 2022: Dubai saves 329mw of electricity

Published

on

Spread the love

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) recorded savings of 329 megawatts (mw) in electricity consumption in the Emirate during Earth Hour 2022, equivalent to a reduction of 132 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. These savings are 13 per cent higher than the 291mw savings recorded during Earth Hour 2021. This year’s savings are the biggest since 2008 when Earth Hour was first observed in Dubai.

Dubai residents joined millions worldwide in expressing their solidarity with efforts to reduce climate changes by turning off unnecessary lights and electric appliances during Earth Hour between 8.30pm and 9.30pm on Saturday, March 26, 2022. This year’s Earth Hour was held under the theme ‘Shape Our Future’. Dubai’s landmarks and government and private buildings also took part in the event by turning off their lights for an hour.

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dewa, commended everyone who took part in the Earth Hour, emphasising that the goal goes beyond just turning off unnecessary lights and electric appliances for 60 minutes. Earth Hour aims to make electricity and water conservation a daily practice to cut carbon emissions and combat environmental challenges such as climate change and global warming.

“At Dewa, we work in line with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy, which aims to provide 100 per cent of Dubai’s total power capacity from clean energy sources by 2050. We also raise awareness among society members on the importance of conservation and highlight sustainability practices that positively impact climate action. The results achieved during Earth Hour in Dubai every year underline the key role of society members in conservation and reduction of carbon footprint. The goal of Earth Hour is to encourage society members to adopt a conscious and responsible lifestyle to support national efforts to limit carbon emissions and protect natural resources to ensure their sustainability for generations to come,” said Al Tayer.
Khawla Al Mehairi, executive vice president of Strategy and Government Communications at Dew, said that Earth Hour is one of the most significant environmental initiatives that millions worldwide observe by turning off unnecessary lights, including key landmarks, from 8.30pm–9.30pm on the last Saturday of March. It highlights the importance of strict measures to combat Earth’s challenges, such as climate change and global warming. Dubai was the first Arab city to host Earth Hour activities in 2008.

Dewa’s buildings participated in Earth Hour by turning off unnecessary lights from 8.30pm to 9.30pm. This included Dewa’s pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai, which also organised various activities, including traditional performances by the Emirati Al Harbiya band. Dewa’s conservation mascots, Noor and Hayat, also participated in the Earth Hour Switch-Off Parade at Expo 2020 Dubai. Additionally, Dewa organised Earth Hour competitions through its social media accounts, with valuable gifts for the participants.

News

Eid travel guide UAE: Free parking, buses and metro timings explained 

Published

on

Spread the love

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.

Continue Reading

News

Eid Al Fitr in UAE: Abu Dhabi announces free parking and toll waiver

Published

on

Spread the love

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

Continue Reading

News

Eid Al Fitr in UAE: Sharjah announces free parking for 3 days 

Published

on

Spread the love

Good news if you’re driving around Sharjah this Eid.

The Sharjah Municipality has announced that public parking across the emirate will be free on the first, second and third days of Eid Al Fitr, making it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy the celebrations without worrying about parking fees.

What drivers need to know

The free parking applies to most public spaces, giving drivers more flexibility during the busy holiday period.

However, the Municipality has clarified that:

  • Smart parking zones are not included
  • Some areas will remain paid even during Eid

To avoid fines, motorists are advised to check signage carefully, especially the blue information boards that indicate paid zones.

With malls, parks and beaches expected to be crowded during Eid, free parking comes as a welcome relief for families heading out to celebrate across the emirate.

Continue Reading

Popular

© Copyright 2025 HEADLINE. All rights reserved

https://headline.ae/