DUBAI: This month, the UAE brings a host of updates to make life more convenient, exciting, and enriched for residents and visitors alike.
These new measures and events underscore the UAE’s dedication to community welfare, cultural celebration, and road safety.
From traffic fine discounts and extended paid parking hours to the much-anticipated return of Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Festival, here’s everything you need to stay ahead this November.
Amnesty Programme Extended
Good news for residents with visa irregularities, as the UAE’s amnesty programme has been extended until December 31, 2024, providing an opportunity to regularise status without incurring fines.
Major General Suhail Saeed Al Khaili, Director General of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP), stated that the decision was made “in conjunction with the UAE's celebrations of the 53rd Union Day and as an embodiment of the humanitarian and civilised values of the country.”
This represents a final opportunity for individuals with expired or cancelled visas to amend their residency without penalties or exit bans.
Traffic Fine Discount in Ajman
Ajman Police have announced a 50 percent discount on traffic fines for offences committed before October 31, 2024.
This relief period, running from November 4 to December 15, 2024, allows residents to settle violations while exempting serious infractions, such as reckless driving, exceeding speed limits by over 80 km/h, and red-light violations.
According to Major Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah Al-Naeemi, Commander-in-Chief of Ajman Police, the initiative reflects Ajman Police’s commitment to “strengthening road safety, as part of the police efforts Ajman to make all dealers happy and to relieve the financial burden on the citizens and villagers of the Emirate.”
Vehicle owners are encouraged to take advantage of this decision to settle outstanding fines, with the hope of promoting road safety across the emirate.
New Salik Toll Gates in Dubai
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to launch two additional Salik toll gates—Business Bay Gate and Al Safa South Gate—on Sheikh Zayed Road on November 24.
These additions will bring Dubai’s total toll gates to ten, aiming to ease traffic and encourage public transport use. Al Haddad, CEO of Salik, highlighted the environmental goals of the new gates, adding that they “will be almost 100 per cent solar powered.”
These new toll points are expected to reduce traffic along Al Khail and Al Rebat streets by approximately 15-16 percent and offer seamless travel along Sheikh Zayed Road.
Extended Parking Hours in Sharjah
Residents in Sharjah should take note of the changes to paid parking hours. Sharjah City Municipality has extended the timing from 8 AM to midnight in specific zones, known as ‘7-day zones’ (marked by blue information signs), where fees are applied every day, including Fridays and public holidays. The update maintains the current fee structure, starting at Dh2 for one hour, and is designed to ease parking congestion, particularly during evening hours.
Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi
The cultural calendar this November is set to shine with the return of the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi, one of the UAE’s most beloved celebrations. Running from November 1, 2024, to February 29, 2025, this year’s festival, themed ‘Hayakum’ (Arabic for ‘Welcome’), offers a vibrant array of cultural and entertainment events that honour unity, tolerance, and shared human values.
Held under the distinguished patronage of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and guided by UAE Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the festival celebrates the UAE’s heritage and offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore cultures from around the world.
With over 27 countries represented, more than 30,000 exhibitors, and over 6,000 cultural showcases, festival-goers can enjoy an extraordinary lineup of international music performances, cultural exhibitions, interactive wildlife experiences, and a world of culinary delights from across the globe.
Tickets are priced at Dh10 per person, with free entry for People of Determination, children under three, and seniors above 60. Timings are from 4 PM to 12 AM Sunday to Thursday, and extended until 1 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Don’t miss this exceptional experience celebrating the UAE’s legacy and cultural diversity!