Dubai Updates Parking Codes Ahead of Variable Rates Rollout

Dubai’s largest paid parking operator, Parkin PJSC, has started installing new parking signs across the city ahead of changes to its pricing structure set for April 2025. The new system will introduce variable fees based on peak and off-peak hours.

New Parking Codes Implemented

Motorists have begun noticing new parking zone codes replacing the previous A, B, C, and D classifications. These zones are now labeled AP, BP, CP, and DP, respectively. Parkin has assured users that while the codes have changed, the pricing remains the same for now.

Several other zones across commercial areas such as Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Media City, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Silicon Oasis also have their own codes. Areas around Dubai World Trade Centre, which charge Dh25 per hour during events, remain unaffected by this update.

Confusion Among Motorists

Some residents expressed uncertainty about how the changes would impact their seasonal parking permits. Communications consultant Saad Aqueel, a Dubai resident, said he opted to pay for parking despite holding a valid pass due to concerns over the new codes. “I hope the seasonal pass pricing stays the same,” he added, after paying Dh4,500 for his annual permit.

Peak-Hour Pricing Set to Begin

Starting in April 2025, Dubai will introduce dynamic parking fees based on peak and off-peak hours. This follows the model introduced by Salik, which already applies variable rates at its toll gates.

Currently, public parking is chargeable for 14 hours daily (Monday to Saturday) from 8 AM to 10 PM. Under the new system, six of those hours will be considered peak periods:

• 8 AM - 10 AM (2 hours)
• 4 PM - 8 PM (4 hours)

During these peak hours, parking fees in certain areas, like Al Barsha (373CP), will increase as follows:

• Dh6 for 1 hour
• Dh12 for 2 hours
• Dh18 for 3 hours
• Dh24 for 4 hours

Off-peak rates will remain unchanged at Dh2 per hour.

Free Parking and Premium Zones

Public parking will continue to be free on Sundays and public holidays. Premium parking across Dubai will have a fixed rate of Dh6 per hour, except on free parking days.

Zones B and D will maintain their daily rates:

• Dh40 per day in Zone B
• Dh30 per day in Zone D

Premium Parking Areas

Parkin has confirmed that approximately 35% of its 184,000 public parking spaces will be designated as premium spots. These locations were selected based on factors like public transport access, high demand during peak times, and congestion levels in commercial districts. Areas such as Deira, Bur Dubai, Business Bay, and Jumeirah are among the premium zones.

Ramadan Parking Timings

During Ramadan, public parking hours will be adjusted:

• Chargeable hours: 8 AM - 6 PM and 8 PM - 12 AM
• Free parking: 6 PM - 8 PM (Monday to Saturday) and all day Sunday

Multi-level parking buildings will continue to operate 24/7.