E-Paper
Sign In
Sharjah announces free public parking on June 15 for Hijri New Year
The exemption does not apply to smart parking yards and designated paid public parking areas that operate year-round, including official holidays
- PUBLISHED: Sun 14 Jun 2026, 10:00 AM
Motorists in Sharjah who use public parking will be exempt from parking fees on Monday, June 15, in celebration of the Hijri New Year holiday. However, authorities clarified that the exemption does not apply to smart parking yards and designated paid public parking areas that operate year-round, including official holidays. These areas are typically identified by blue signboards. Blue zone parking spaces will continue to be chargeable as usual.
In Sharjah, public parking is generally free in standard zones on Fridays. Paid parking continues in designated blue zones and smart parking areas, which operate throughout the week without exception. In most normal zones, parking is free during late-night hours, typically from 10pm to 8am, depending on signage. Motorists should be cautious as blue-marked parking areas remain chargeable at all times, including weekends and holidays.
Recommended For You
Ajman has also announced free paid parking during the Hijri New Year holiday on June 15. Motorists across the UAE will enjoy free parking and toll exemptions on Monday, June 15. In Dubai, public parking is expected to be free on official public holidays, in line with standard Road and Transport Authority (RTA) practice. However, multi-storey parking facilities and other designated paid zones generally remain chargeable even during holidays.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
In Abu Dhabi, public parking (Mawaqif) is typically free on public holidays, while normal tariff zones resume on the next working day. In addition, Abu Dhabi’s Darb toll gates are also usually free on Sundays and official public holidays, offering further relief to motorists.
The UAE has announced a paid public holiday on Monday to mark the Islamic New Year. While the exact date of the Hijri New Year will be confirmed after the crescent sighting on Dhul Hijjah 29, authorities have aligned the holiday with the weekend to provide residents with an extended break. Under a new Cabinet resolution that came into effect on January 1, 2025, certain public holidays in the UAE may be moved to the start or end of the week if they fall on a weekday, allowing for more structured long weekends.
Ajanta Paul is a Senior Editor on the Digital team. A natural leader and newshound, she thrives in breaking news and high-pressure situations — and enjoys reporting on community issues that matter to UAE residents.