Dubai is set to introduce a new parking policy that will significantly change how residents and visitors pay for parking across the city.
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has teamed up with Parkin Company PJSC, Dubai’s largest public parking provider, to implement the ‘Variable Parking Tariff Policy.’
The new system, which will be effective by the end of March 2025, will use dynamic pricing based on factors like peak hours, special events, and high-demand areas.
Premium Parking & new Congestion Charges
The premium parking policy focuses on high-demand, high-density areas in Dubai. These spaces will be subject to higher tariffs due to their location and demand. The areas selected for premium parking are chosen based on three key criteria:
- Proximity to public transport, such as metro and bus stations (within 500 metres).
- High parking occupancy during peak periods.
- Congestion and density, such as commercial zones and markets.
Premium Parking Areas include:
- Deira and Bur Dubai
- Downtown Dubai
- Business Bay
- Jumeirah
- Al Wasl Road
These spaces will be marked clearly, with tariffs displayed and available on the Parkin website, mobile app, and social media channels.
Peak and Off-Peak Hours
One of the most significant changes to the parking system will be the introduction of peak and off-peak hours. The RTA has identified periods when parking demand is highest and lowest, and will adjust pricing accordingly.
Peak Parking Hours (8am - 10am, 4pm - 8pm):
- Premium Parking: Dh6 per hour
- Other Paid Parking: Dh4 per hour
Off-Peak Parking Hours (10am - 4pm, 8pm - 10pm):
- Tariffs remain unchanged, providing more affordable parking during these hours.
Free Parking Hours:
To provide some relief for drivers, the new parking policy offers free parking during specific hours. This includes:
- Overnight: From 10pm to 8am.
- Sundays: Free parking all day.
This system is designed to encourage parking during less busy times, making it easier for drivers to find spaces without the added cost during peak hours.
Special Tariffs during Major Events
Dubai’s bustling event calendar will also impact parking fees. During major events such as conferences, festivals, and concerts, the demand for parking will surge, and the RTA will implement Event Hours Tariffs to accommodate this increased demand.
Event Hours Tariff:
- Special event zones will be activated around venues hosting large-scale events.
- Tariffs will be higher in these areas, helping manage the temporary increase in vehicle volume.
These zones will be clearly marked during the events, and the updated tariffs will be made available through Parkin’s official platforms.
Timeline and Implementation
The introduction of the new parking fees and tariffs will happen in two phases:
- Phase 1 (February 2025): Focus on areas around major events, with event-specific tariffs applied in these zones.
- Phase 2 (End of March 2025): Full implementation of Premium Parking and Peak/Off-Peak tariffs across the city.
The policy will aim to optimise the parking experience, improve traffic flow, and ensure the efficient use of available parking spaces.
Impact on Urban Mobility
The new variable parking tariff policy aims to improve both traffic management and parking accessibility across Dubai. The introduction of dynamic pricing will help manage congestion during high-demand periods and events, ensuring smoother traffic flow across the city, while aligning Dubai’s parking management with international best practices for urban mobility.
“The Variable Pricing Tariff Policy marks a significant evolution in Dubai’s parking landscape. It reflects the city’s forward-thinking approach to urban mobility and traffic management,” said Eng. Mohamed Abdulla Al Ali, the CEO of Parkin.