Abu Dhabi Declares Free Parking And Toll Waiver For Holiday

Motorists in Abu Dhabi will enjoy free parking and toll exemptions on Friday, September 5, 2025, in celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) confirmed that both Mawaqif parking spaces and Darb toll gates will be free of charge for the day.

This decision highlights Abu Dhabi’s focus on making holidays easier, more affordable, and more enjoyable for residents, visitors, and commuters.

Free Parking Across Abu Dhabi On The Holiday

The ITC has announced that all Mawaqif surface parking spaces will be free to use on Friday, September 5. Normally, motorists need to pay between AED 2 and AED 4 per hour depending on the area. But on this special day, all charges will be waived.

Parking fees will return on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Motorists should keep this in mind to avoid fines once the holiday ends.

This initiative helps residents save money, reduce stress, and travel around Abu Dhabi with ease during the holiday.

Toll Fees Suspended At Darb Gates

In addition to free parking, Abu Dhabi motorists will not have to pay Darb toll gate fees on September 5.

The Darb toll system usually charges AED 4 per crossing during peak hours, such as 7 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM. These charges are designed to manage traffic flow and reduce congestion in busy areas.

On the holiday, however, the toll system will be completely free. This allows families, commuters, and tourists to move across the city more freely and without extra costs.

Normal toll fees will restart on Saturday, September 6, during regular peak hours.

The Meaning Of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Birthday Holiday

The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, also known as Mawlid Al-Nabi, is one of the most significant occasions in the Islamic calendar. In the UAE, it is observed as a public holiday, giving citizens and residents the chance to reflect, pray, and spend time with loved ones.

In 2025, the holiday falls on Friday, September 5. Since Fridays are already a weekend day in the UAE, the holiday creates an extended period of rest and celebration.

By offering free parking and toll exemptions, Abu Dhabi makes this holiday even more special for families and visitors.

What Is Mawaqif Parking?

The word Mawaqif refers to Abu Dhabi’s official parking system. It was introduced to organize parking spaces, reduce traffic congestion, and ensure smoother movement around the city.

• Fees: Typically AED 2–4 per hour.
• Timings: Paid parking applies between 8 AM and 12 midnight, except Fridays and public holidays.
• Special Days: On major holidays like Eid, National Day, and the Prophet’s birthday, parking is often made free.

This holiday exemption means residents won’t need to use SMS parking payments or Mawaqif top-up cards on September 5.

The Role Of Darb Toll Gates

Abu Dhabi introduced the Darb toll system in 2021 as part of its plan to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. The system uses smart sensors and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) to charge vehicles during peak hours.

Key facts about Darb:

• Charge: AED 4 per crossing.
• Active Hours: 7–9 AM and 5–7 PM, Monday to Saturday.
• Maximum daily charge: AED 16 per vehicle.

On holidays such as Mawlid Al-Nabi, the system is switched off, ensuring that families can travel freely and without added costs.

Benefits Of Free Parking And Toll Waivers

These exemptions are not only symbolic. They bring real benefits to the community.

1. Cost Savings – Families save money on both parking and toll fees.
2. Convenience – No need to worry about finding coins, SMS payments, or top-up balances.
3. Less Stress – Smooth travel makes the holiday more enjoyable.
4. Tourism Boost – Visitors can explore Abu Dhabi without worrying about extra charges.
5. Family Time – Easier travel encourages people to visit relatives and friends.

By combining convenience with savings, Abu Dhabi creates a more welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

Holiday Transport Arrangements In The Past

Abu Dhabi has followed similar policies during other major holidays. For example:

• Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha – Free Mawaqif parking and toll exemptions.
• UAE National Day – Darb toll suspension to encourage celebrations across the city.
• New Year’s Eve – Special transport schedules to handle increased demand.

These policies show Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to community-friendly transport solutions.

ITC’s Role In Abu Dhabi’s Smart Transport

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) is responsible for planning, operating, and regulating Abu Dhabi’s transport systems. Its responsibilities include:

• Managing Mawaqif parking services.
• Operating the Darb toll system.
• Overseeing buses and taxis.
• Developing smart mobility apps and payment systems.

Through ITC’s work, Abu Dhabi has become one of the most advanced transport cities in the Middle East.

UAE’s Bigger Transport Vision

Abu Dhabi’s initiatives are part of a wider UAE vision for the future of transport. This vision includes:

• Sustainable travel: Supporting electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids.
• Smart mobility: Using artificial intelligence to manage traffic.
• Better public transport: Expanding bus routes and preparing for metro developments.
• Tourism support: Making it easier for visitors to move around during major events.

By offering free parking and toll waivers, Abu Dhabi shows that transport is not just about rules and fees, but also about community well-being.

Public Holiday Policies In Other GCC Countries

Abu Dhabi is not alone in making holidays easier for motorists. Other GCC countries also have similar policies:

• Dubai – Free public parking during Eid and National Day, plus longer metro hours.
• Saudi Arabia – Toll exemptions during Hajj and Eid.
• Qatar – Free parking in central areas during major holidays.
• Oman and Bahrain – Relaxed parking rules for national holidays.

This reflects a regional tradition of easing transport rules during special occasions to encourage celebration and unity.

Important Reminders For Motorists

While free parking and toll exemptions apply on September 5, motorists should remember:

• Parking rules still apply – Illegal parking, blocking driveways, or double-parking can still result in fines.
• Fees resume September 6 – Normal Mawaqif and Darb charges return on Saturday.
• Use official apps – Motorists can check the Darb app and Mawaqif app for real-time updates and alerts.

By following the rules, motorists can enjoy the benefits of the holiday without any inconvenience.

Final Thoughts – A Holiday Of Comfort And Ease

The decision to make Mawaqif parking and Darb toll gates free on September 5, 2025 reflects Abu Dhabi’s strong focus on community, convenience, and celebration.

As the city prepares to honor the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, these measures ensure that residents and visitors can travel freely, save money, and spend quality time with family.

This initiative is another example of how Abu Dhabi continues to build a smart, sustainable, and people-centered transport system for the future.