Dubai: If you’re looking for ways to reduce your everyday costs, an easy way to look for little savings is to understand how the variable parking fee system works in Dubai.
Parkin, the main public parking provider in Dubai, applies variable parking charges across Dubai, and once you understand the tariff system, you can optimise your savings by planning your days in advance to avoid higher parking charges.
Here is how you can save on parking, but also park for free in Dubai.
When is parking free?
Parking is free usually on Sundays, on public holidays and every day from 10pm to 8am.
However, do check which area you are parking in, as some places – like multistorey car parks or special parking zones – may not offer free parking during these time.
Photo credit: ParkinAlso, there are some residential areas in Dubai, where paid parking is not implemented. Simply look around to ensure that there are no parking metres and paid parking signposts in the area, to ensure you are not in a paid parking zone.
Three ways to save on parking fees
If you do happen to be using a paid parking area, follow these three tips to save on parking fees:
1. Look for standard parking zones
Before you park, an easy way to save on parking fees is to check if there is a standard parking zone nearby. There are two types of parking zones in Dubai – premium and standard, and you can identify if a zone is premium with a ‘P’ at the end of the parking area code.
Standard parking zone charges a maximum of AED4.20, even during peak hours, while in premium parking zones, the hourly charges may go up to AED6.30.
2. Know the peak vs off-peak hours
Parin also charges higher parking fees during peak hours, to maintain traffic flow and optimise parking management. If possible, you can also try to manage your schedule to avoid these hours:
Peak hours: 8am to 10am and 4pm to 8pm.
Non-peak hours: 10am to 4pm and 8pm to 10pm.
Photo credit: Parkin3. Special parking zones
Another factor that can influence the parking charges are special parking zones like some parking areas in Jumeiral Lake Towers (Parking code E, I) where parking can cost AED10.50 per hour, or multistorey car parks, which charge around AED 5 per hour. If you do plan to visit these areas, consider sharing a car with your friends or colleagues, as it would not just save on money but also reduce the number of cars in the busy areas.
How can I check for standard parking zones nearby?
If you do find yourself in a parking zone with a higher tariff, you don’t need to drive around to find a standard parking zone. One of the easiest ways to find the parking zones near you is through the ‘RTA’ or ‘Parkin’ app, both of which are available for Apple and Android devices.
Simply go to the ‘pay for parking’ option and move the location pin around to see the other parking zones around you. Not only will you be able to find the closest standard parking zone, the app also gives you an estimate of the total free parking spaces available in the area, so that you don’t have to spend extra time looking for parking.
