Abu Dhabi announces free public parking, Darb toll for Prophet's birthday holiday

Abu Dhabi motorists will enjoy free Darb toll crossings and public parking on Friday, August 28, as the UAE marks the Prophet’s Birthday holiday.

The temporary exemption will give residents and visitors an opportunity to travel around the emirate without standard toll and public parking charges.

Darb Toll Charges Suspended on Friday

Darb toll gates will be free of charge on August 28 in line with the public holiday.

Normal toll charges will resume from Saturday, August 29.

However, the exemption does not apply to all toll gates. The Al Qurm and Ghantout toll gates will continue operating around the clock, seven days a week, with a charge of Dh4 per crossing.

Public Parking Free on August 28

Public parking spaces across Abu Dhabi will also be free on Friday, August 28.

The usual parking fees will return from Saturday, August 29.

Motorists should note that the exemption applies to public parking but does not cover multi-storey public parking facilities. These buildings will continue to charge motorists at their regular rates.

Customer Happiness Centres to Close

Abu Dhabi's Customer Happiness Centres, including those in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, will remain closed on Friday, August 28.

Services at the centres will resume on Monday, August 31. Residents are encouraged to use available digital services where possible during the closure.

Dubai Also Announces Free Parking

Dubai motorists will also benefit from free public parking on Friday, August 28, following a similar announcement by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

In Sharjah, parking is already free on Fridays under the emirate's regular parking arrangements.

Prophet’s Birthday Holiday Creates Long Weekend

The Prophet’s Birthday public holiday falls on Friday, August 28, giving many UAE residents a three-day weekend when combined with the regular Saturday-Sunday break.

The holiday date had previously been expected to fall earlier in August, with August 24 and August 25 among the dates considered before the final announcement.

The free parking and toll arrangements are expected to make travel more convenient for residents during the holiday weekend.