Dubai’s new variable parking fees from April 4: More areas classified as premium zones
New parking classifications aim to enhance urban mobility and efficiency
DUBAI: In a significant update to its parking system, Dubai is set to implement new variable parking fees starting April 4, 2025.
This initiative, announced by Parkin Company PJSC in collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), will see an expansion of premium parking zones across the city, targeting high-demand areas and aiming to optimise traffic flow. The adjustments reflect the city's ongoing commitment to enhancing urban mobility and managing public space effectively.
The latest developments confirm that approximately 40 percent of Parkin's public parking portfolio will now be classified as premium, an increase from the previously communicated 35 percent. This reclassification includes areas adjacent to or near public transport infrastructure, ensuring that spaces are accessible for users relying on alternative modes of transport.
Peak and Off-Peak pricing
Under the new structure, parking fees will vary based on peak and off-peak hours. The designated peak periods are as follows:
- Morning Peak: 8AM – 10AM
- Evening Peak: 4PM – 8PM
During these peak hours, premium parking rates will rise significantly, while off-peak charges (10AM – 4PM and 8PM – 10PM) will remain unchanged, providing a balanced approach to pricing that encourages motorists to consider their parking times carefully. This initiative is expected to alleviate congestion in the most trafficked areas of the city, particularly during busy periods.
“By adjusting tariffs based on demand, we are creating a more efficient parking ecosystem that promotes better traffic management,” says a Parkin statement.
Premium Parking costs
The recent reclassification of parking zones also introduces new designations, with previous zones A, B, C, and D being rebranded as AP, BP, CP, and DP to indicate their premium status. These changes are particularly evident in bustling areas such as Al Barsha, where the new peak-hour rates will be as follows:
- 1 hour: Dh6 (previously Dh2)
- 2 hours: Dh12 (previously Dh5)
- 3 hours: Dh18 (previously Dh8)
- 4 hours: Dh24 (previously Dh11)
Standard tariffs will remain intact during off-peak hours, allowing drivers the flexibility to avoid peak pricing by adjusting their schedules.
Special Event Parking fees
In a further effort to manage high vehicle volumes during grand events, specific locations such as the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) will implement a special event parking rate of Dh25 per hour for designated spaces surrounding the venue.
Event attendees are advised to plan ahead and consider alternative transport options to avoid the increased parking costs during these busy periods.
New parking signage
To facilitate these changes, new signage is being installed throughout the city to clearly indicate the updated zone classifications and corresponding fees. Furthermore, the Parkin mobile app has been enhanced to include the revised zone codes, enabling motorists to check the latest classifications and avoid any unexpected charges.
As the transition period approaches, Parkin will continue to follow Ramadan timings until the new fees take effect, with chargeable hours from 8 AM to 6PM and again from 8PM to midnight.