New Parking Fees in Dubai from April 2025

Dubai has officially rolled out its updated parking fee system as of April 4, 2025.

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This new structure introduces dynamic pricing to better manage congestion, optimize parking availability, and support the city’s broader transport goals. With the implementation of peak and off-peak tariffs, motorists across the emirate are expected to experience notable changes in how and when they pay for public parking.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain every aspect of the new Dubai parking tariff update, including premium and standard rates, zone-by-zone breakdowns, payment options, special event rates, and more. Whether you're a resident, a commuter, or a visitor, this article will help you stay informed and avoid unnecessary fines.

What are the new parking fees in Dubai from April 2025?

The new parking fees in Dubai, effective from April 4, 2025, introduce a variable pricing model where charges differ depending on the time of day (peak or off-peak) and the type of parking zone (premium or standard). This new tariff model mirrors the structure used in Salik’s dynamic tolling system and was implemented to address traffic congestion and high demand in central areas of Dubai.

Peak and Off-Peak Hours

The new pricing system divides the 14 chargeable hours each day into peak and off-peak time slots:

• Peak hours: 8 am to 10 am and 4 pm to 8 pm

• Off-peak hours: 10 am to 4 pm and 8 pm to 10 pm

• No charges apply outside these hours, and parking is free on Sundays and public holidays.

Pricing Summary by Type

Premium zones are designated high-demand areas near metro stations, commercial districts, and main roads. Standard parking applies to less congested locations and residential areas.

Why has Dubai introduced variable parking tariffs?

According to Parkin, Dubai's official parking operator, the primary goal of the revised tariff system is to enhance parking availability, reduce traffic congestion, and promote efficient use of public infrastructure. The city’s growing population and increasing vehicle numbers have placed significant pressure on existing parking facilities, especially in central business and tourist zones.

The updated system is designed to encourage turnover of parking spots during busy hours, making short-term parking more accessible while discouraging long-term vehicle stays in high-demand zones during peak periods.

Where are premium parking zones in Dubai?

Premium parking zones are typically found in areas with heavy footfall, proximity to public transport, and commercial activity. These include:

• Business Bay

• Downtown Dubai

• Deira

• Al Wasl

• Sheikh Zayed Road (from World Trade Centre to Umm Al Sheif)

• Naif and Al Fahidi

• Al Barsha 1

• Main road areas in Jumeirah

These spaces are now marked with updated signage indicating their premium status and the applicable peak/off-peak rates.

Understanding the new signage and zone changes

To support the transition to variable pricing, Parkin has updated the city’s parking zone codes. The traditional zone labels A, B, C, and D have been changed to more descriptive formats:

• Zone A becomes AP

• Zone B becomes BP

• Zone C becomes CP

• Zone D becomes DP

Each sign will clearly display:

• Zone code

• Timings for peak and off-peak hours

• Parking rates for both standard and premium spaces

You might also like: RTA Parking in Dubai, Detailed Guide

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Detailed breakdown of Dubai parking charges by zone

Zone A (On-Street Parking)

This zone covers some of the busiest roads in central Dubai, including areas around Downtown and Business Bay.

Zone B (Off-Street Parking)

Zone B includes parking lots behind commercial buildings and in residential areas.

Zone C (On-Street Parking)

Zone C serves mid-density commercial and retail areas.

Zone D (Off-Street Parking)

Typically includes long-term parking areas with capped day rates.

What about multi-storey car parks?

Dubai operates 3,200 spaces across six multi-storey car parks. These facilities are open 24/7, 365 days a year.

• Rate: AED 5 per hour

• Maximum daily charge: AED 40 (after 8 hours of continuous parking)

• No peak/off-peak differentiation

• Use Parkin app or compatible platforms to pay post-parking (up to 48 hours later)

Special rates during large-scale events

A new event-based tariff has been introduced to regulate parking demand near major venues such as the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).

• Special Event Rate: AED 25 per hour

• Applies to about 200 spaces near DWTC

• Operational hours: 8 am to 10 pm on event days only

Events triggering this rate in 2025 include:

• GITEX: October 13 to 17

• Beautyworld Middle East: October 27 to 29

• Gulfood Manufacturing: November 4 to 6

• The Big 5: November 24 to 27

• Automechanika Dubai: December 9 to 11

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Developer-managed parking areas under new tariff

Parkin confirmed that 35 percent of developer-managed parking will now follow the same dynamic pricing scheme. This includes parking spaces in buildings and developments managed by private firms but regulated by RTA.

These developer spaces are now expected to adopt:

• The same peak/off-peak structure

• Updated signage and payment systems

• Consistent rates with public parking zones

How to pay for parking in Dubai

Motorists have multiple payment options available:

Via SMS or WhatsApp

• Send to 7275

• Format:

Mobile Apps

• Parkin

• RTA Dubai

• Dubai Now

These apps support:

• Apple Pay

• Samsung Pay

• Huawei Pay

• Credit or debit card payments

On-Site Meters

Meters accept:

• Cash

• Nol cards

• Debit or credit cards

You will need to enter:

• Vehicle plate source (Emirate)

• Vehicle plate code

• Vehicle number

• Parking zone code

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Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is for general informational purposes only. The details provided are based on the best information available at the time of publication and may be subject to change without notice due to potential updates in educational policies or scheduling adjustments by the respective authorities. Readers are advised to contact the relevant offices directly for the most accurate and current information.