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.

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.

As Ramadan draws to a close, the UAE has officially called on residents to take part in one of Islam’s most significant traditions, the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon.

The UAE Council for Fatwa has urged the public to observe the crescent moon on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan 1447 AH. The sighting will determine the beginning of Shawwal and signal the arrival of Eid Al Fitr.

In a move that highlights community participation, the Council has invited individuals to submit their moon sighting observations through its official online platform or via its dedicated contact channels. This initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to combining tradition with modern accessibility.

The crescent sighting is more than just a religious formality; it marks the end of a sacred month of fasting and the beginning of joyous Eid celebrations, reinforcing unity and shared spiritual values across the nation.

Meanwhile, the Shawwal Moon-Sighting Committee will convene in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday evening. The meeting will be chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Sheikh Al Mahfouz bin Bayyah, Chairman of the Council, alongside Vice Chairman Dr Omar Habtoor Al Darei.

The committee is scheduled to gather after Maghrib prayers to carefully review reports from observation teams, certified observatories, and public submissions. All findings will be assessed in accordance with approved Sharia guidelines and scientific standards.

Following deliberations, the Council confirmed that the official announcement regarding the start of Shawwal, and consequently Eid Al Fitr, will be made through authorised UAE channels.

As anticipation builds, residents across the UAE look to the skies, continuing a timeless tradition that beautifully blends faith, science, and community spirit.