Ramadan in the UAE: A Complete Guide to Salik Rates, Parking, Work Hours & More

As the UAE prepares to welcome the holy month of Ramadan, several key changes will shape residents 'lives. From adjusted work schedules to modified transportation and public service timings, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know.

Significance of Ramadan

Ramadan, the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, is expected to begin on March 1. Millions worldwide observe this time of spiritual reflection, devotion, and self-discipline. Fasting from dawn to dusk, those in the UAE will experience fasting hours ranging from 12 hours and 58 minutes on the first day to 13 hours and 41 minutes on the last.

Changes in Daily Routines

During the holy month, work hours, school schedules, public transport, and parking regulations are adjusted to align with residents' fasting and prayer schedules.

Salik, Public Transport & Parking Timings

Salik Toll Rates:

• Peak hours (Monday to Saturday, 9 AM - 5 PM): Dh6
• Off-peak hours (7 AM - 9 AM & 5 PM - 2 AM): Dh4
• Free from 2 AM - 7 AM (Monday to Saturday) & between 2 AM - 7 AM on Sundays.

Dubai Metro:

• Monday to Thursday & Saturdays: 5 AM - 12 Midnight
• Fridays: 5 AM - 1 AM
• Sundays: 8 AM - 12 Midnight

Public Parking:

• Monday to Saturday: 8 AM - 6 PM & 8 PM - 12 Midnight (Free between 6 PM - 8 PM)
• Sundays: Free
• Multi-level parking: 24/7 operations
• Sharjah: Paid parking from 8 AM - 12 Midnight

Revised Work Hours

Public Sector:

• Monday to Thursday: 9 AM - 2:30 PM
• Fridays: 9 AM - 12 PM
• Remote work on Fridays permitted for up to 70% of employees

Private Sector:

Work hours reduced by two hours

Flexible & Remote Work Policies:

• Dubai: Flexible work for 3 hours/day, with a minimum of 5.5 hours of office work.
• Fridays: 3-hour shifts with an option for remote work.
• Sharjah & Ajman: Work hours are set from 9 AM - 2:30 PM.
• Remote Learning Adjustments

Public Schools:

• Distance learning every Friday.
• Exceptions for students with pre-scheduled exams.

Private Schools (Dubai):

• Optional remote learning on Fridays, subject to exam schedules.
• Park & Recreation Facility Timings
• Special parks & attractions:
• Zabeel, Al Khor, Mushrif National Park: 9 AM - 11 PM
• Safa Park: 12 PM - 10 PM
• Mamzar Park: 8 AM - 10 PM
• Dubai Frame: 10 AM - 7 PM

Dubai Parks:

• Open from 8 AM - 1 AM, walking tracks open post-Fajr.
• Al Marmoom & Suhaila Lakes: Open 24/7

Sharjah Parks:

• Neighborhood parks: 4 PM - 12 Midnight
• Sharjah National Park, Al Rolla Park: 4 PM - 1 AM

Community Guidelines & Legal Aspects

• Fundraising and charitable donations must be done through licensed platforms.
• Begging is a punishable crime with fines of Dh5,000 and up to three months in prison.
• Unauthorized fundraising carries fines up to Dh500,000.
• Dubai Police’s annual ‘Combat Begging’ initiative is in effect.

Ramadan Promotions & Iftar Cannons

• Over 644 major supermarkets across the UAE are offering discounts of up to 50% on 10,000 products, with some extending offers worth Dh35 million.
• Lulu Hypermarket announced 65% discounts on 5,500 products.
• Iftar cannons will be stationed across Dubai and Sharjah, maintaining the decades-old tradition.

As the UAE embraces the spiritual essence of Ramadan, these changes ensure a seamless transition into the holy month, accommodating both religious observances and daily life. Stay informed and make the most of this blessed time!