Dubai is a city in constant motion, and May 2025 brings a fresh wave of changes that residents and visitors should note. From seasonal closures to transport upgrades and app compatibility shifts, here are the five most important updates taking effect this month.
1. Global Village Closes for the Season on May 11
The beloved multicultural destination wraps up its 29th season on Sunday, May 11. Global Village offers international food, entertainment, and shopping experiences, and it closes annually for the summer months. If you have not visited yet, the attraction is open daily from 4pm to midnight on weekdays and until 1am on weekends. Do not miss your last chance before it shuts down.
2. RTA Updates 14 Bus Routes and Launches Dubai–Sharjah Service
Starting Friday, May 2, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is modifying 14 bus routes across Dubai to improve commuter efficiency. Among the notable changes, Route 17 now terminates at Baniyas Square Metro Station, Route 44 is rerouted to serve Dubai Festival City, and Route 56 is extended to DWC Staff Village.
On the same date, the RTA also launches the new intercity Route E308, connecting Stadium Bus Station in Dubai to Al Jubail Bus Station in Sharjah. The one-way fare is AED 12, offering a convenient and affordable cross-emirate travel option.
3. New Petrol Prices and CAFU Delivery Fees
The UAE's monthly fuel pricing committee will announce updated petrol rates on April 30, with the new prices taking effect on May 1. Motorists should check the official announcement for the exact figures.
Separately, the on-demand fuel delivery service CAFU is reintroducing delivery charges in Dubai for the first time since 2020. Priority delivery (within 20 minutes) costs AED 20, standard delivery (within two hours) costs AED 16, and overnight delivery (midnight to 6am) costs AED 12.
4. WhatsApp Drops Support for iOS 15 Devices from May 5
From May 5, 2025, WhatsApp will no longer function on iPhones running iOS 15.0 or earlier. This affects older handsets including the iPhone 5s, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus. Users on these devices will need to upgrade their iOS version — if their device supports it — or switch to a newer handset to continue using the app.
5. The Annual 3-Day Super Sale Returns to Dubai Malls
Dubai's popular 3-Day Super Sale is back this May, bringing discounts of up to 90% across more than 2,500 stores in the emirate's shopping malls. The event is one of the biggest retail occasions in Dubai's annual calendar, covering fashion, beauty, technology, home goods, and children's essentials. Check mall listings for specific dates and participating stores.
