Dubai’s Major Changes in March: What You Need to Know

Friday, 28 February 2025

Dubai is a city that never stops evolving, and staying updated with the latest changes is essential. With its fast-paced development, new rules and regulations are frequently introduced, affecting everything from transportation to business operations. March brings several key modifications that will influence daily life, making it important for residents and visitors alike to stay informed. Whether it’s a shift in parking fees, adjustments to toll charges, or changes in work hours due to Ramadan, these updates will play a significant role in shaping the way people navigate and experience the city.

Table of Contents

• 1. New Parking Fees Implementation
• 2. Salik Toll Gate Fees Revision
• 3. Lowering of Minimum Driving Age
• 4. End of Dubai’s Winter Season
• 5. Opening of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab
• 6. Ramadan Working Hours Adjustments
• Frequently asked questions

1. New Parking Fees Implementation

Dubai’s parking system is undergoing a significant change with the introduction of new tariffs by Parkin, the city’s official parking operator. This change aims to regulate parking demand in high-traffic areas, ensuring better availability of spots where they are needed most.

• Introduction of Peak Hour Tariffs: Parkin, Dubai’s official parking operator, will introduce new parking tariffs in high-demand areas.
• Revised Pricing:
  • Peak Hours (8 AM – 10 AM & 4 PM – 8 PM): Dh6 per hour
  • Regular Hours: Dh4 per hour
• Targeted Locations:
  • Near public transport hubs
  • Business districts
  • Popular shopping areas
• Initial Rollout: Some areas, such as Al Sufouh 2 and event zones around the Dubai World Trade Centre, have already seen these price hikes.

2. Salik Toll Gate Fees Revision

Dubai’s road toll system, Salik, will undergo another pricing revision in March. This adjustment comes in response to the shift in commuting patterns during Ramadan, ensuring better traffic management across the city’s major roads.

• Dynamic Pricing Adjustments: Salik toll gate fees will be adjusted once again, specifically for Ramadan.
• Updated Fee Structure:
  • Free Travel: 2 AM – 7 AM daily & all day on Sundays
  • Standard Charges:
    • 7 AM – 9 AM (Weekdays): Dh4
    • 9 AM – 5 PM (Weekdays): Dh6
    • 5 PM – 2 AM (Weekdays): Dh4
• Purpose: To improve traffic flow and accommodate changes in commuting patterns during Ramadan.

3. Lowering of Minimum Driving Age

A major change in traffic regulations will allow younger individuals to obtain a driving license sooner. This new law will offer more independence to young drivers while introducing stricter controls for vehicle classification and road safety

• New Driving Age Limit: Effective from March 29, the minimum driving age in the UAE will be lowered to 17 years old.
• Additional Changes in Driving Laws:
  • Classification of personal self-driving and electric vehicles
  • Ban on excessively noisy vehicles
  • Stricter penalties for drink-driving violations

4. End of Dubai’s Winter Season

Dubai’s mild winter is coming to a close, marking the beginning of rising temperatures. The final phase of winter, known as Scorpion Season, is now in effect and will last until mid-March

• Scorpion Season Arrival: The final phase of Dubai’s winter, known as Scorpion Season, is underway.
• Season Duration: February 10 – March 20
• Expected Weather Changes:
  • Gradual rise in temperatures
  • Transition towards summer climate
• Last Chance for Cool Outdoor Activities: Residents and tourists are encouraged to enjoy the remaining pleasant weather before the heat sets in.

5. Opening of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab

Dubai’s luxury hospitality landscape is expanding with the much-anticipated launch of Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. This high-end resort is designed to offer a unique, yacht-inspired experience near one of the city’s most famous landmarks

• Highly Anticipated Hotel Launch: One of Dubai’s most awaited luxury resorts will finally open its doors.
• Opening Date: March 14
• Resort Highlights:
  • Inspired by a super yacht design
  • Located near the iconic Burj Al Arab
  • Features 12 brand-new restaurants

6. Ramadan Working Hours Adjustments

With the onset of Ramadan, work schedules across Dubai will be adjusted to accommodate the observance of fasting hours. Both public and private sector employees will have revised working hours to ensure a more flexible and accommodating work environment

• Public & Private Sector Work Timings:
  • Private Sector: Reduced by 2 hours per day throughout Ramadan.
  • Public Sector:
    • Monday – Thursday: 9 AM – 2:30 PM
    • Friday: 9 AM – 12 PM
• Expected Start of Ramadan: March 1

March 2025 will bring several notable changes to Dubai, impacting everything from transportation and work schedules to leisure activities and hospitality. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, staying informed about these updates will ensure a smooth transition into the new regulations. From adapting to new parking and toll fees to taking advantage of the last few weeks of winter, these changes reflect Dubai’s ongoing growth and innovation. Stay ahead of the curve by planning accordingly and making the most of the exciting developments in this dynamic city.