Abu Dhabi mall set to launch AI-driven parking – no tickets, no barriers

Abu Dhabi: Starting next week, Abu Dhabi’s Al Wahda Mall will introduce a new smart parking system that eliminates the need for paper tickets and physical barriers.
The upgrade, through Parkonic’s smart parking solution, aims to streamline the parking experience using advanced AI technology.

The mall, which previously operated a ticket-based entry and exit system, has temporarily suspended the old method to prepare for the rollout of the new contactless platform.
“We are implementing a system that uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to monitor vehicle movement in and out of the parking facility,” Mayank Pal, General Manager of Al Wahda Mall said.

How it works

The ANPR technology will automatically record the duration of stay by scanning the vehicle’s license plate at both entry and exit points, removing the need for traditional paper tickets. Parking fees will then be calculated accordingly.

While similar systems in Dubai are integrated with Salik – allowing parking fees to be deducted directly from Salik accounts – this will not be the case at Al Wahda Mall.

Visitors will be able to pay using a dedicated mobile app, QR codes displayed throughout the mall, or at pay stations.
Payments can be made via cash or card, and dedicated staff will be on hand in the parking areas to assist with the process.
According to Pal, the new setup is designed to improve traffic flow at peak times.
“The new system is expected to significantly reduce congestion, particularly at entry and exit points,” he said.

No changes in parking fees

Parking fees will remain the same under the new system.
Between 8am and 10am, a flat rate of Dh10 per hour applies. After 10am, the first three hours are free. Charges beyond that are tiered: Dh10 for three to four hours, Dh20 for four to five hours, Dh30 for five to six, Dh50 for six to seven, and Dh100 for anything beyond seven hours.
Shoppers can enjoy parking validations or extended free hours by presenting a purchase receipt and their vehicle plate number at the customer service counters, including the one inside LuLu Hypermarket. No minimum spend is required to avail this benefit.