Dubai has recently expanded its smart mobility strategy by introducing new variable parking fees in Dubai. These changes are part of a broader initiative led by Parkin, the city’s primary parking operator, aimed at easing congestion and encouraging public transportation use. Five new areas have been added to the system under zones W (standard) and WP (premium).
Which Areas Are Affected by the New Variable Parking Fees?
The newly added zones include:
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Al Karama (318W)
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Al Qusais First (32W)
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Madinat Dubai and Al Melaheyah (321W)
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Al Kifaf (324WP)
These areas are well-known for heavy traffic and limited parking availability, making them ideal candidates for variable fee implementation. You can view an updated map of all parking zones on the Dubai RTA parking zone locator.
Parking Fee Breakdown: W vs. WP Zones
Standard Zone W (Al Karama, Al Qusais, Madinat Dubai, Al Melaheyah)
In these locations, the new parking fee is:
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AED 4 per hour, all day
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No difference between peak and off-peak hours
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Applies from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
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Free overnight parking from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM and on Sundays
These zones fall under what Parkin and RTA refer to as “standard parking zones.”
Premium Zone WP (Al Kifaf)
As a premium zone, Al Kifaf has a differentiated pricing model:
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AED 6 per hour during peak hours
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AED 4 per hour during off-peak hours
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Peak hours: 8 AM–10 AM and 4 PM–8 PM
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Off-peak hours: 10 AM–4 PM and 8 PM–10 PM
Premium zones typically include areas with high footfall, commercial density, and close proximity to metro stations. Find more about premium parking rates here.
Why These Changes Were Introduced
The new variable parking fees in Dubai are part of the city’s broader effort to reduce traffic congestion, especially in commercial hubs and high-demand zones. With Dubai’s population and vehicle numbers continuously growing, managing parking efficiently has become crucial.
This policy aligns with Dubai’s Smart City initiative, which promotes the use of intelligent transportation systems and public mobility solutions.
Criteria for Premium Parking Zones
According to Parkin and RTA guidelines, a location is classified as premium if it meets the following:
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Within 500 meters of a metro station
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High occupancy levels during peak times
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Commercial and retail density
These criteria ensure that premium charges are applied in zones where demand is highest, promoting fair and optimized usage.
How to Pay for Parking in the Updated System
Drivers in Dubai have several convenient ways to pay under the new fee structure:
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RTA’s Dubai Drive App
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SMS Parking Service – Send an SMS in the format
PlateNumber<space>ZoneCode<space>Durationto 7275. -
Nol Cards – Can be used at smart parking meters.
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Parkin Website – www.parkin.ae offers full payment and registration services.
When Is Parking Free in Dubai?
Under the new system, parking is free during the following times:
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10:00 PM to 8:00 AM daily
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All day on Sundays
This remains unchanged from previous policies and allows residents to avoid parking fees overnight and on weekends.
