Dubai Drivers Face Expanding Paid Parking Network as Parkin Cites Urban Growth

The rapid expansion of paid parking in Dubai is set to continue as the city grows, with operator Parkin insisting charges are essential to prevent congestion and ensure there are enough spaces. Parkin operates 268,300 paid parking spaces across Dubai, up more than a quarter from 211,500 a year ago as new areas have been brought under its management.

The expansion has prompted frustration for some residents as previously free spaces have become subject to charges at a time when households face wider cost-of-living pressures. However, Mohamed Al Ali, chief executive of Parkin, told The National that regulated parking was critical infrastructure for a rapidly expanding city. “Parking is reaching every single person here,” he said. “We can see continued urban expansion, changing mobility patterns, and the growing expectations for smarter and more seamless services.”

Drivers should expect the network to grow further. “Parking is a service, as simple as that. This is what you are paying for, that service in an advanced city,” Mohamed Al Ali added. “As the city expands, our parking spaces will expand with it.”

He believes that without paid parking, people will abuse the system. He noted that some locations without parking regulations were exploited, with people leaving their cars long term and vendors operating out of pickup trucks. Khattab Abu Qaoud, chief financial officer of Parkin, told The National the difference between controlled and uncontrolled zones was stark, noting that regulated traffic helps users find spaces and encourages local development.

While Parkin’s roll-out has drawn criticism, Mr Abu Qaoud believes it offers ease and value, highlighting that Dubai remains cheaper than major global cities like New York and London. Parkin saw its profits rise in the second quarter, with total revenue increasing 14 per cent to Dh364.1 million. Enforcement revenue also rose 11 per cent to Dh107.5 million, making up nearly 30 per cent of total revenue.

Looking to the future, Parkin plans to increase street cameras to 5,000, further automate parking, and explore expansion into other emirates such as Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, as well as international markets.