Dresden's public transport grinds to a halt in 26-hour strike chaos

Public transport in Dresden will face major disruptions this weekend as employees and trainees of Dresdner Verkehrsbetriebe AG (DVB) stage a 26-hour warning strike. Called by the ver.di trade union, the walkout begins at 3:00 AM on Friday, February 27, 2026, and lasts until 5:00 AM the following day. The action follows stalled wage talks between ver.di and the Municipal Employers' Association of Saxony over a new collective agreement for the transportation sector.

The strike will halt nearly all trams and roughly two-thirds of DVB buses, along with the suspended railway and funicular services. Only bus routes run by subcontractors will operate partially, while S-Bahn and regional trains remain unaffected. Passengers have been urged to plan ahead, particularly those attending Dynamo Dresden's home match against Darmstadt 98 on Friday evening.

The union's demands include a shorter standard workweek, higher annual bonuses, increased night shift allowances, and better premium pay rules. A collective agreement on job security is also being pushed. Similar strikes will hit Chemnitz, Zwickau, and Plauen, with Leipzig employees joining on Friday and Saturday.

Despite the disruptions, school attendance remains compulsory, and workers must still report on time. Alternative transportation options like car-sharing, bike-sharing, e-scooters, and taxis are available, though shortages may occur during peak times.

The strike will significantly reduce transportation options across Dresden from early Friday until Saturday morning. While some services remain available, delays and limited capacity are expected. Passengers are advised to check updates and allow extra travel time throughout the period.