Dubai RTA Adjusts Transport Network for Ramadan 2026
With Ramadan commencing on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai has officially recalibrated the city's daily pulse. To accommodate the unique rhythms of the holy month, including late-night prayers, family gatherings, and adjusted office hours, Dubai's comprehensive transport network has shifted into high gear. Whether residents are rushing for Iftar at sunset or heading to the Masjid for Taraweeh prayers, these updates ensure seamless mobility across the emirate.
Dubai Metro and Tram Ramadan 2026 Operating Hours
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has announced the official operating schedule for the Dubai Metro during Ramadan 2026, reflecting altered daily routines and travel patterns. The timings cover both the Red Line and Green Line services, designed to align with shifts in commuting as residents fast, pray, and socialize throughout the month. These revised hours apply from the start of Ramadan, confirmed to begin in mid-February 2026, with travel patterns adapting rapidly once fasting begins.
Service Day
- Monday – Thursday: Dubai Metro operates from 5:00 AM to 12:00 Midnight, while Dubai Tram runs from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM the next day.
- Friday: Dubai Metro extends service from 5:00 AM to 1:00 AM the next day, with Dubai Tram also operating from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
- Saturday: Dubai Metro runs from 5:00 AM to 12:00 Midnight, and Dubai Tram from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
- Sunday: Dubai Metro operates from 8:00 AM to 12:00 Midnight, with Dubai Tram from 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM.
These adjusted hours help residents navigate a month where early mornings and late evenings are busier, particularly around Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (sunset breaking of fast). The extended Friday night service until 1:00 AM mirrors Dubai's social rhythm, as many events and prayers occur later in the evening.
Why Transport Hours Change During Ramadan
Ramadan transforms daily life in Dubai: work schedules shift earlier, fasting impacts peak travel times, and evening social and religious activities extend late into the night. The RTA states that the updated Metro schedule ensures greater convenience and service alignment with public needs, especially around prayer times, sunset, and Iftar gatherings. Alongside the Metro, other transport services feature updated timings:
- Dubai Tram: Longer operations, particularly in the evenings.
- Public buses and marine transport: Commuters are advised to check the S'hail app for day-by-day schedules during Ramadan.
These adjustments guarantee that public transport supports daily life throughout the fasting period and beyond sunset into the night.
Parking and Salik Tolls During Ramadan 2026
Parking in Dubai receives a thoughtful "Iftar Break" for 2026. The RTA has implemented a two-shift payment system for all paid zones from Monday to Saturday, designed to provide financial relief during key times.
Feature
- Paid Parking (Monday-Saturday): First shift from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, followed by a free period from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and a second paid shift from 8:00 PM to 12:00 Midnight.
- Sunday Parking: Free all day, though this does not apply to multi-storey parking facilities.
- Salik Tolls (Monday-Saturday): Peak hour rate of AED 6 applies from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, dropping to AED 4 outside these hours, and completely free between 2:00 AM and 7:00 AM, ideal for early Suhoor travel.
- Multi-Storey Parking: Paid 24/7 with no free windows.
Planning Ahead for a Smooth Ramadan
As Ramadan reshapes daily life across Dubai, the revised Metro schedule ensures residents and visitors can move smoothly from early morning commutes to late-night gatherings. With extended Friday hours and adjusted weekday services, the new timings reflect the holy month's rhythm, balancing work, worship, and family time. Commuters are encouraged to plan journeys in advance and check official updates from Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority to avoid last-minute rushes during peak Iftar hours.
