Starting April 2025, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai implements new parking fees, including variable tariffs designed to help optimize parking space usage and ease traffic congestion.
These changes will impact both residents and visitors who rely on public parking throughout the city.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new parking fee structure:
What’s changing with Dubai’s parking fees?
The key updates include the introduction of variable pricing, where the cost of parking will depend on the time of day and the parking zone. There will also be some changes in enforcement hours, and special pricing during major events.
1. Peak and Off-Peak Pricing
Dubai will now differentiate between peak and off-peak hours, meaning parking fees will vary depending on the time of day. This is intended to reduce the pressure on parking spaces during high-demand times.
Peak Hours: From 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, parking fees will increase in premium areas to Dhs 6 per hour.
Off-Peak Hours: Outside these busy times, parking fees will remain at Dhs 4 per hour in most zones.
2. Parking zones and rates
Dubai’s parking areas are divided into four different zones (A, B, C, D), with varying pricing structures based on location and parking demand.
Zone A (On-Street Parking):
Peak hours: Dhs 6 per hour
Off-peak hours: Dhs 4 per hour
Zone B (Off-Street Parking):
Peak hours: Dhs 6 per hour for premium spaces, Dhs 4 for standard
Off-peak hours: Dhs 3 for both standard and premium parking
Zone C (On-Street Parking):
Peak hours: Dhs 6 for premium, Dhs 4 for standard
Off-peak hours: Dhs 2 for both standard and premium parking
Zone D (Off-Street Parking):
Peak hours: Dhs 6 for premium, Dhs 4 for standard
Off-peak hours: Dhs 2 for both standard and premium parking
3. Event-based pricing
Special parking fees will apply during major events like exhibitions and conventions at places such as the Dubai World Trade Centre.
These events may lead to higher parking rates, with fees going up to Dhs 25 per hour during peak times to ensure sufficient parking for event attendees.
4. Extended enforcement hours
In addition to pricing changes, the enforcement hours for paid parking have been extended. Paid parking zones will now be enforced until 10:00 PM instead of the previous 8:00 PM limit.
This aims to manage the growing demand for parking, particularly in busy commercial and residential areas during the evening.
Why are these changes being made?
The goal behind the new parking fee structure is to encourage more efficient use of parking spaces, reduce traffic congestion, and ensure smoother city operations.
The new variable pricing system aims to manage the supply and demand of parking spaces more effectively and make parking spots available when they are needed the most.
Furthermore, the extended enforcement hours will help address nighttime congestion in high-density areas, particularly where parking is in high demand.
What does this mean for drivers in Dubai?
As a driver in Dubai, you’ll need to keep track of both the time of day and your location to avoid unexpected parking charges.
If you regularly park in high-demand areas during peak hours, you can expect to pay more. It’s a good idea to plan ahead or consider alternative options, such as using public transportation or carpooling, during peak times.
For those attending events or exhibitions, be aware that parking may be more expensive in the vicinity. Also, be mindful of the new extended enforcement hours to avoid fines for overstaying your parking period.
How can you prepare?
To avoid surprises, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the new parking rates in your regular parking areas. Consider using the RTA’s official app to check parking availability and prices before heading out.
You can also plan your visits to commercial districts during off-peak hours, where parking fees will be lower.
These parking fee adjustments are part of Dubai’s ongoing efforts to improve traffic flow, optimize parking usage, and generate additional revenue for city infrastructure. While the new pricing may increase costs during peak times, it will help make parking in Dubai more efficient, accessible, and less congested in the long run.
Stay informed and make sure to adjust your parking habits to align with the new rules. By doing so, you can avoid unnecessary costs and contribute to making Dubai’s streets less crowded.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
