Dubai: Motorists across the emirate are waking up to a new reality this week as Parkin officially concludes its rollout of revised Dubai parking fees for 2025. The changes, which have been gradually implemented throughout the year, now fully cover 17 high-demand districts, introducing a dynamic tariff system designed to reduce congestion and improve parking availability.
If you drive through areas like Al Karama, Mirdif, or Al Sufouh, you will notice updated signage and new zone codes. The initiative aims to streamline traffic flow by adjusting costs based on demand, with rates now fluctuating between peak and off-peak hours.
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Which Areas Are Seeing Price Changes?
The overhaul targets some of the city’s busiest residential and commercial hubs. According to Parkin, the updated tariffs are now active in locations where finding a spot has historically been a challenge.
Notable changes include:
- Al Sufouh 2 (Zone F): Rates are set at Dh2 for 30 minutes and Dh4 per hour. A full-day stay (over 8 hours) is capped at Dh32.
- Mirdif (Zones 251C & 251D): Paid parking now applies Monday to Saturday, 8 AM to 10 PM. While rates are Dh4/hour during peak times, they drop to Dh2/hour off-peak.
- Al Karama, Al Qusais 1 & Al Kifaf: These areas see the introduction of new W and WP categories. In WP zones, you will pay Dh6/hour during peak rush hours, dropping to Dh4/hour when traffic subsides.
- Gate Avenue-Al Khail (Zone 365N): This zone now operates as a 24-hour paid area, charging Dh4/hour or a daily maximum of Dh30.
Understanding the New Peak vs. Off-Peak Rates
One of the biggest shifts for drivers is the move towards “variable pricing”. Instead of a flat rate all day, Parkin has introduced a system that charges more when demand is highest. This is crucial for anyone budgeting their monthly commute.
- Peak Hours (Higher Rates): Typically 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
- Off-Peak Hours (Standard Rates): 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM.
For education and business hubs like Dubai Internet City, Dubai Studio City, and Dubai Sports City, daily maximum charges now vary between Dh20 and Dh36 depending on the specific zone code.
Subscriptions and Free Parking Timings
For residents living in these newly regulated zones, paying hourly can get expensive quickly. Parkin has updated its seasonal card options to match the new zones.
Subscription Costs Monthly parking subscriptions now start from Dh300 for basic zones, climbing up to Dh4,040 annually for premium all-zone access. The price depends entirely on whether you need coverage for a standard residential area or a premium commercial district.
When Can You Park for Free? Despite the hikes, the RTA and Parkin have retained standard exemptions to help residents:
- Sundays: Parking remains free in most zones (excluding multi-storey and special 24/7 zones).
- Public Holidays: Official UAE holidays are exempt from fees.
- Prayer Times: New “Mosque Zones” (Codes MP and M) offer free parking for worshippers during prayer windows. Outside these times, reduced rates apply.
Residents are advised to check the zone code on the signboard or the Parkin app before leaving their vehicle, as assuming old rates could lead to fines. If you are a regular commuter to these 17 hubs, investing in a seasonal card is likely your most cost-effective move for 2026.
