As the countdown to 2025 begins, Dubai is not just preparing to welcome a new year, but also a wave of significant transformations that will impact daily life in the city. From the iconic Burj Khalifa celebrating its 15th anniversary to Emirates marking 45 years of excellence in the skies, there’s a lot to look forward to. Here are five notable changes that will take effect in Dubai in 2025, affecting everything from your commute to leisure activities.

1. Al Maktoum Bridge Set to Reopen

Al Maktoum Bridge, one of the city’s oldest structures, originally opened its doors in 1963, has undergone several closures throughout 2024. Currently, it has been closed from 11 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Saturday, and all day on Sundays for vital maintenance and repair work. However, residents can anticipate its grand reopening on Thursday, January 16, 2025, restoring the crucial connection between Bur Dubai and Deira. Until then, alternative routes remain available for use.

2. Changes to Parking Fees

Beginning in March 2025, parking fees across Dubai will undergo a substantial revision as Parkin, the city’s designated parking operator, implements new tariffs. The changes include an increase for premium parking spots, particularly during peak hours from 8 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 8 PM, where fees will rise to Dhs6 per hour in high-demand areas. These premium spaces, conveniently located near key public transport hubs, business districts, and popular shopping zones, aim to enhance convenience for drivers navigating congested areas. Meanwhile, standard parking rates will remain at Dhs4 per hour. For a comprehensive overview of all parking price adjustments, click here.

3. Salik Fees to Be Revised

Starting in January 2025, the Salik toll system will introduce a dynamic pricing model designed to alleviate traffic congestion on Dubai’s bustling roads. The new variable pricing, launching at the end of January, will feature toll-free access during early morning hours, escalating to Dhs6 during peak traffic times. For detailed information on how these changes will affect your travel, be sure to check out the full story here.

4. Increase in Sewage Charges

In a move not seen in a decade, Dubai will increase its sewage charges beginning in January 2025. Both residents and businesses will observe a revised tariff structure, with new rates starting at 1.5 fils per gallon of water in 2025. This will gradually rise to 2 fils per gallon in 2026 and reach 2.8 fils per gallon by 2027. To learn more about the new sewage charges, click here.

5. Careem Service Expands to the Beach

In an innovative twist, the popular delivery app Careem will unveil a new feature called Careem Beach in 2025, designed to enhance your beach experience. This feature will utilize GPS-enabled umbrellas positioned at designated stations near popular beach entrances across the UAE. By scanning a QR code through the Careem app, users can order refreshments like ice creams and drinks without ever leaving their shaded spot. When it’s time to head home, simply return the umbrella to its docking station—it’s as straightforward as that! While the exact launch date in 2025 is yet to be announced, we’ll keep you updated as soon as we have more information.

In Other News from Dubai

• WhatsApp in the UAE will cease functioning on certain phones starting May 2025: Now might be the ideal time to consider upgrading your device.
• Traveling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus: If you’re in Dubai and planning a trip to Abu Dhabi, we’ve got all the information you need.
• Ed Sheeran to perform at a brand new festival next year: We’re just Thinking Out Loud… this could potentially be one of the most memorable performances in the capital!