Sharjah: As the emirate today celebrates Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) Sharjah gives a twist to the occasion by making public parking free throughout most of the city, offering residents a convenient and cost-effective way to partake in holiday festivities.
However, it's important to note that the free parking perk does not extend to Sharjah's seven-day paid parking zones. These designated areas, easily identifiable by blue parking information signs, remain operational even during holidays.
Adding to the celebratory spirit, municipal medical fitness centers in Sharjah are also closed on July 7th to allow staff to join in the holiday observances.
This Islamic New Year coincides with a one-day paid holiday for both government and private sector employees across the UAE. The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has earlier declared Muharram 1, the first day of the Islamic calendar, as an official holiday.
Looking ahead, Sharjah residents can gear up for another upcoming public holiday to celebrate the Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) birthday.
As the year progresses, the UAE's official holiday calendar promises a final hurrah with a long weekend for the much-anticipated National Day celebrations.