Dubai’s new parking tariffs: How a monthly subscription can save you money
Save on parking in Dubai with a subscription as new peak-hour rates take effect
Dubai: Dubai’s public parking operator, Parkin, has rolled out a new variable tariff system across all public parking zones in the city. Under this updated policy, parking now costs Dh6 per hour during peak times from 8am to 10am and 4pm to 8pm on weekdays, excluding weekends and public holidays. With this major change, many regular users of public parking are now looking for ways to cut down on daily parking costs. One of the most practical and cost-effective options is a parking subscription, which lets you park as often as needed throughout the day while saving money. Here’s how it works:
Do parking subscriptions save money in Dubai?
One of the main advantages of a parking subscription in Dubai is the convenience it offers. If you frequently rely on public parking and travel across the city daily for meetings or work, a subscription allows you to park as many times a day as needed, in various parking spaces, without paying each time. This can save both time and money.
Additionally, with a parking subscription, you no longer need to worry about parking duration, renewing time, or potential fines. Opting for a subscription that covers zones A, B, C, and D can offer greater flexibility. If you regularly park, particularly during peak hours, the Dh500 monthly subscription is likely to be cost-effective.
To decide, calculate your typical monthly parking expenses. If they exceed Dh500, a subscription could save you money. If not, stick to pay-per-hour.
Types of parking spaces
Roadside and plots
Subscriptions for roadside and plot parking start from Dh500 per month. These allow you to park in areas coded A, B, C, and D across multiple regions in Dubai.
Convenient parking spots available alongside streets and roads
Typically regulated by parking meters or zones (A and C) with designated time limits
Ideal for short-term parking, errands, or visits to nearby establishments
Plots only
According to Parkin, motorists can save up to 48 per cent with a plot-only parking subscription in Dubai.
Access to designated parking zones (B and D)
Regulated by meters or zones with set time limits
Suitable for short-term parking when visiting nearby locations
Subscription costs
Plots only subscription:
One month: Dh250
Three months: Dh700
Six months: Dh1,300
12 months: Dh2,400
Roadside and plots subscription:
One month: Dh500
Three months: Dh1,400
Six months: Dh2,500
12 months: Dh4,500
Important points to note
The subscription is valid only for parking plots with codes B and D.
Up to three vehicles can be added under the same Dubai traffic file, with only one vehicle active at any given time.
You can switch between vehicles every 30 minutes.
If the traffic file is from outside Dubai, another country, or registered under a company, only one vehicle can be added.
Subscription fees are non-refundable.
Heavy vehicles such as trucks, buses, and pickups are not permitted.
You can upgrade from a plot-only subscription to a roadside and plots package by paying an additional fee.
Modifying vehicle information linked to your subscription incurs a fee of AED 100.
The subscription is not valid in other coded areas such as A, C, H, J, or K.
Parking is allowed for a maximum of 24 consecutive hours.
How to get a parking subscription in Dubai
To apply for a subscription, visit the Parkin website at parkin.ae/subscription.
Choose the type of subscription and click 'Next.'
Click 'Apply Now' and select your desired package (ex: one month, three months, etc.), then click 'Start Now.'
You can log in using your UAE Pass or RTA account. If you do not have either, you may proceed as a guest.
Select the start and end dates for your subscription (If you apply after 10pm, the subscription will activate the next day).
Enter your contact details – full name, mobile number, email address, and Emirates ID number.
Add a vehicle to your subscription by entering the vehicle details (emirate, plate category, plate code, and number). You may register up to three vehicles under the same Dubai traffic file, but only one can be active at a time. Switching between vehicles can be done via the Parkin app or website.
After confirming all the details, proceed to make the payment using your credit or debit card.
You will receive a confirmation once the subscription is activated.
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
