Dubai is set to implement a new variable pricing system for public parking, beginning next month, as announced by Parkin PJSC, the operator of paid parking facilities across the emirate.

The revised tariff will impose peak hour parking rates from 8 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 8 PM, charging Dh6 per hour across public parking zones, excluding weekends and public holidays.

The forthcoming changes have led some residents to reevaluate their living and working arrangements.

For residents like Janet R, living in Abu Hail, the increase in parking fees means nearly doubling her current expenses.

"Currently, my family pays an average of Dh12 per day for parking, but with the new rates, I estimate it will rise to Dh20, equating to over Dh500 monthly solely for parking," she stated.

In response, Janet and her spouse plan to adjust their schedules to minimize parking costs, with her husband considering a return to the office more frequently to take advantage of free parking offered there.

In anticipation of these changes, parking zone codes in various locations have already been updated, although the tariff pricing remains unchanged for the time being.

Motorists have been notified through several mobile applications regarding these adjustments.

The impact of the new parking policy is also being felt by businesses, particularly among entrepreneurs like Uma Bhattathiripad, who has operated an office on Sheikh Zayed Road for over a decade.

Uma is contemplating relocating her office due to the projected parking expenses for her staff.

"Collectively, our parking costs could exceed Dh2,000 a month, making it financially burdensome," she remarked.

She expressed hope that local authorities might introduce increased mass parking facilities, as previous options have largely been eliminated.

Additionally, another policy affecting parking charges was introduced last month, characterized by congestion pricing in event areas.

For instance, parking fees of Dh25 per hour will apply to public parking around event sites, including the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), during major events like Gulfood.

Event organizers like Tanya Mokle, Project Director of the Global Education and Training Exhibition (GETEX), are concerned about the implications this will have on attendance.

Tanya noted that while their exhibitions typically draw significant crowds, the new parking fees could deter visitors, particularly parents and educators.

"It is a challenge to justify these costs for attendees who are looking to explore educational options," she explained, emphasizing the event's specific timelines for student recruitment.

In related news, the Integrated Transport Centre (AD Mobility) in Abu Dhabi has announced planned road closures and traffic diversions aimed at enhancing the city’s infrastructure and traffic management.

A closure on Jacques Chirac Street is set for three months, alongside new signalised intersections activated in Riyadh City and a traffic diversion on Nahyan The First Street in Al Ain, prompting motorists to plan their journeys accordingly.