Extended Metro and Tram hours, free parking, and round-the-clock smart centres confirmed for Friday, September 5
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has set special service hours for Friday, September 5, marking the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday. With late-running rail services, free public parking, and 24/7 smart support across select centres, Dubai residents will have more time to travel.
All Customer Happiness Centres will be closed on Friday, but the Smart centres in Umm Ramool, Deira, Al Barsha, Al Twar, and at RTA Head Office will operate round-the-clock as normal. On rail, the Dubai Metro Red and Green Lines will run an extended day from 5am to 1am (next day), giving riders extra flexibility for morning commutes, family gatherings, or late-evening plans. The Dubai Tram will also operate 6am to 1am, aligning last trips with the Metro’s end-of-day window.
Free parking
Drivers get a break too as public parking is free on Friday across Dubai, with two notable exceptions, multi-level parking facilities and Al Khail Gate Parking (N.365) remain paid. Regular parking fees resume on Saturday, September 6. If you’re switching to buses or marine transport, check the S’hail app and RTA’s channels for any route-by-route holiday tweaks before you set off.
For motorists handling paperwork, service provider centres (vehicle testing) are closed on Friday and resume normal working hours on Saturday. Given the long weekend, expect heavier demand across popular hubs and Park & Ride sites. Build in buffer time, consider off-peak travel if you’re airport-bound, and remember that smart kiosks and online services remain available even while physical centres are shut.
The transport update dovetails with the wider public-holiday announcement covering government and private sectors, creating a three-day weekend for many residents. Whether you’re planning a city stay, a late dinner after prayers, or a quick getaway, the combination of late Metro/Tram hours and free on-street parking should make moving around simpler, and cheaper, for one very welcome Friday off.
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