The United Arab Emirates is set to introduce several major changes in March 2025, impacting residents, businesses, and transportation systems. From regulatory updates to infrastructure advancements, these new measures aim to enhance the country’s economy, mobility, and governance. Here is a comprehensive overview of what to expect.
1. Adjusted Working Hours for Ramadan
With Ramadan expected to begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025, both public and private sector working hours will be adjusted:
- Public Sector: Government employees will work from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM Monday to Thursday and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays.
- Private Sector: Employees will have a two-hour reduction in daily work hours throughout Ramadan. Employers are encouraged to introduce flexible work schedules where applicable.
These changes will accommodate the needs of fasting employees while ensuring continued productivity.
2. New Traffic Laws Implementation
Effective March 29, 2025, the UAE will enforce updated traffic regulations:
- Lowered Driving Age: The legal minimum age to obtain a driving license will be reduced to 17 years.
- E-Bikes and E-Scooters: New traffic laws will regulate e-bikes and e-scooters to ensure road safety.
- Stricter Penalties: Tougher fines for violations, including drunk driving and hit-and-run incidents, with penalties reaching up to AED 100,000.
These changes aim to improve road safety and better integrate emerging transportation modes.
3. Salik Toll Gate Timings Adjusted for Ramadan
To ease travel for commuters during Ramadan, the following adjustments will apply:
- Peak Hours (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM): AED 6 per crossing.
- Off-Peak Hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM): AED 4 per crossing.
- Late Night (2:00 AM – 7:00 AM): No toll charges.
4. Corporate Tax Registration Deadline for Freelancers and Influencers
Freelancers and social media influencers earning over AED 1 million annually must register for corporate tax by March 31, 2025, as per Federal Tax Authority regulations.
5. DEWA Switches to Cubic Metres for Water Billing
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) will transition from measuring water usage in imperial gallons to cubic metres by the end of March 2025, aligning with global standards and improving billing transparency.
6. Fuel Price Adjustments
Effective March 1, 2025, UAE fuel prices will be revised:
- Super 98 Petrol: AED 2.73 per litre.
- Special 95 Petrol: AED 2.61 per litre.
- Diesel: AED 2.77 per litre.
These price changes reflect global market fluctuations and will impact transportation costs.
7. UAE to Launch Etihad-SAT Satellite
The UAE will launch its Etihad-SAT Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite in March 2025. Developed in collaboration with South Korea, the satellite will provide high-resolution imaging for various applications, including environmental monitoring and disaster management.
8. New Merger Control Regulations
By the end of March 2025, the UAE will enforce new competition laws to regulate business mergers, ensuring a fairer economic landscape.
9. Introduction of Air Taxis
Dubai and Abu Dhabi will begin testing electric air taxis in March 2025, marking a major shift in urban mobility. The new system aims to reduce congestion and introduce a sustainable transportation alternative.
10. Increased Public Parking Tariffs
Public parking fees in high-demand areas will increase starting in March 2025:
- Premium Parking Spaces: New rates will be AED 6 per hour, up from AED 4.
This adjustment reflects growing demand for parking and aims to optimize urban traffic flow.
With these changes set to take effect, residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed and prepare accordingly. The UAE continues to lead in infrastructure development, sustainability, and economic transformation, ensuring long-term growth and innovation.
