HCMC – HCMC is planning to offer free rides on Metro Line No.1 for three days: January 1, 2026 (New Year’s Day), and February 16 and 17, 2026 (the 29th and 1st days of the Lunar New Year).
The HCMC Department of Construction has proposed that the city government approve funding support for free public access to the metro line that connects the landmark Ben Thanh Market and Suoi Tien Theme Park during these two major holiday periods.
According to the department, earlier this year, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the south and the reunification of the nation (April 30, 1975 – April 30, 2025), International Labor Day (May 1), and National Day (September 2), Hoa Sen Advertising Trading Joint Stock Company (Hoa Sen JSC) sponsored the operation cost so that HCMC Urban Railway Company No.1 (HURC1) could provide three days of free rides to passengers.
The initiative was said to have generated positive public feedback, reflecting the city’s compassionate spirit and encouraging residents to experience modern public transport.
Building on that success, the same company has proposed sponsoring free metro rides during the 2026 New Year and Lunar New Year holidays. The firm also seeks to participate in train decoration and political–advertising displays on the metro.
Following feedback from relevant departments, the HCMC Department of Construction has suggested that the municipal People’s Committee allow HURC1 and Hoa Sen JSC to jointly organize the free travel program on January 1, 2026 (New Year’s Day), and February 16 and 17, 2026 (Lunar New Year, corresponding to the 29th and 1st days of the lunar calendar).
In addition, both sides will cooperate to decorate metro trains, creating a joyful atmosphere to welcome the new year and promoting the image of green and civilized public transit.
