Dubai’s new variable parking tariff, set to take effect next month, has caused many residents and businesses to reconsider their routines and expenses. The updated pricing structure, introduced by Parkin PJSC, aims to manage parking demand in high-traffic areas.
Premium Parking Fees During Peak Hours
Starting in March 2025, premium parking zones will cost Dh6 per hour during peak hours (8 am–10 am and 4 pm–8 pm), while regular zones will remain at Dh4 per hour. Off-peak hours and weekends will see no changes. This adjustment has left residents like Sarah M., an Abu Hail resident, planning ways to reduce costs.
“Our building only has one parking space, so we park our second car on the street,” Sarah said. “Currently, we pay Dh12 per day, but this will increase to Dh20 under the new system. That’s over Dh500 per month just for parking.” Sarah and her husband have decided to adjust their schedules to minimize parking during peak hours. “My husband might work from the office more since his workplace offers free parking,” she added.
Businesses Consider Relocation Due to Higher Costs
Entrepreneurs are also feeling the impact of the new fees. Priya N., who owns an office on Sheikh Zayed Road, is considering relocating after over a decade. “My staff already pay for nine to ten hours of parking daily. With the new rates, they’ll collectively spend an additional Dh2,000 monthly,” Priya explained. She urged authorities to introduce more mass parking facilities in high-demand areas like Sheikh Zayed Road.
Event Organizers Brace for Higher Costs
Event organizers are concerned about the congestion pricing policy introduced last month for event zones. Parking near venues like Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) now costs Dh25 per hour during major events. Emma L., project director of an upcoming education exhibition at DWTC, expressed concerns about visitor turnout. “It’s unreasonable to expect parents and educators to pay Dh25 per hour just to attend an event,” she said.
Public Awareness and Future Adjustments
To ease the transition, authorities have updated parking codes across apps and launched public awareness campaigns. Residents and businesses are encouraged to plan ahead as Dubai implements these changes aimed at improving traffic flow and optimizing urban space utilization.
