Understanding Dubai’s parking regulations is essential for residents and visitors navigating the city in 2025. With the introduction of new Variable Tariff System and operational changes under Parkin PJSC, knowing when and where to park can save you money and avoid penalties.
Dubai Paid Parking Hours 2025
Standard Paid Parking Schedule (Monday to Saturday)
Dubai’s public paid parking operates during specific hours across most zones:
Daily Paid Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (14 hours) Days: Monday through Saturday
The new Variable Tariff System divides these 14 hours into two distinct pricing periods:
Peak Hours (Higher Rates)
- Morning Rush: 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM (2 hours)
- Evening Rush: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM (4 hours)
- Total Peak Hours: 6 hours daily
During peak hours, Premium zones charge AED 6 per hour, while Standard zones charge AED 4 per hour.
Off-Peak Hours (Lower Rates)
- Midday Period: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (6 hours)
- Late Evening: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM (2 hours)
- Total Off-Peak Hours: 8 hours daily
Off-peak rates vary by zone, typically ranging from AED 2 to AED 4 per hour depending on the specific location.
Free Parking in Dubai 2025
When Is Parking Free in Dubai?
Dubai offers several free parking windows throughout the week and year:
Daily Free Parking
Overnight Hours: 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM (10 hours)
Every night, most public parking zones become free during these hours, providing convenient overnight parking for residents and visitors.
Weekly Free Parking
Sundays: All day, every week
Sunday remains a completely free parking day across Dubai’s standard public parking zones.
Public Holidays Free Parking
Dubai provides free parking on all official UAE public holidays, including:
- New Year’s Day (January 1)
- Eid Al Fitr (dates vary based on lunar calendar)
- Eid Al Adha (dates vary based on lunar calendar)
- Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (Mawlid)
- UAE National Day period
Important: Always check official RTA/Parkin announcements for confirmed free parking dates, as Islamic holiday dates follow the lunar calendar.
Exceptions: Where Parking Is NEVER Free
Not all parking facilities follow the standard free parking rules. These locations charge fees 24/7, including Sundays and public holidays:
Multi-Level Car Parks (MLCPs)
- Operating Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
- Rate: AED 5 per hour
- Daily Maximum: AED 40
- Free Parking Status: NO free periods
Al Khail Gate (Zone N.365)
- Operating Hours: 24 hours, 7 days a week
- Rate: Starting at AED 4 per hour
- Daily Maximum: AED 30
- Free Parking Status: NO free periods (even on Sundays and holidays)
Event Parking Zones
- Rate: AED 25 per hour during active events
- Locations: Dubai World Trade Centre, Expo City
- Free Parking Status: Only when events are not scheduled
Dubai Parking Zones and Rates 2025
Understanding the Variable Tariff System
The Variable Tariff System categorizes parking into Premium and Standard zones:
Premium Zones (AP, BP, GP)
Locations: Near metro stations, high-traffic areas
- Dubai Marina
- The Dubai Mall vicinity
- Business Bay
- Jumeirah areas
Peak Rate: AED 6 per hour Off-Peak Rate: AED 2-4 per hour (zone-dependent)
Standard Zones (A, B, C, D)
Locations: General residential and commercial areas
- Zone A: Commercial roadside parking
- Zone B: Mixed-use commercial areas
- Zone C: Residential roadside parking
- Zone D: Budget areas (Al Qusais, Al Nahda)
Peak Rate: AED 4 per hour Off-Peak Rate: AED 2-4 per hour (zone-dependent)
Quick Reference: Dubai Parking Hours Table
| Time Period | Hours | Days | Status |
| Paid Parking | 8 AM – 10 PM | Mon-Sat | PAID |
| Overnight | 10 PM – 8 AM | Daily | FREE* |
| Sundays | All Day | Weekly | FREE* |
| Public Holidays | All Day | Varies | FREE* |
*Exceptions apply to Multi-Level Car Parks and Zone N.365
Money-Saving Tips for Dubai Parking 2025
1. Avoid Peak Hours When Possible
Plan your trips during off-peak hours (10 AM – 4 PM) to benefit from lower rates, especially in Premium zones where you can save up to AED 2-4 per hour.
2. Use Multi-Level Car Parks for Long Stays
If parking for more than 6-7 hours in high-demand areas, multi-story facilities with their AED 40 daily cap often work out cheaper than street parking.
3. Take Advantage of Free Parking Windows
Utilize overnight parking (10 PM – 8 AM) and Sunday free parking for personal errands and shopping trips.
4. Use Digital Payment Methods
The RTA/Parkin app provides accurate zone identification and automatic calculation, helping you avoid underpayment penalties.
Parking Enforcement in Dubai 2025
Parkin PJSC now manages Dubai’s approximately 200,000 paid parking spaces with enhanced enforcement capabilities. Parkin employees have been granted law enforcement authority to record parking violations, making compliance more critical than ever.
How to Pay for Parking in Dubai
- RTA/Parkin Mobile App: Most convenient option
- SMS Parking: Text with zone code and vehicle details
- Parking Meters: Accept coins, NOL cards, and card payments
Special Parking Schedules
Ramadan Parking Hours
During the Holy Month of Ramadan, parking schedules are adjusted to accommodate changed daily routines. Historically, this includes split charging periods such as:
- Morning period: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Evening period: 8 PM – 12 AM
Always check official announcements for exact Ramadan timings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is parking free on Friday in Dubai?
No, Friday is a paid parking day during standard hours (8 AM – 10 PM). Only Sunday offers all-day free parking.
What time is parking free in Dubai?
Parking is free from 10 PM to 8 AM every night in standard zones, all day Sunday, and on public holidays (with exceptions).
How much is parking in Dubai 2025?
Peak hours: AED 4-6 per hour depending on zone Off-peak hours: AED 2-4 per hour depending on zone Multi-level car parks: AED 5 per hour (AED 40 daily max)
Is parking free in Dubai on public holidays?
Yes, in most standard zones. However, multi-level car parks and Zone N.365 (Al Khail Gate) remain paid even on holidays.
Conclusion
Navigating Dubai’s parking system in 2025 requires understanding the new Variable Tariff System, recognizing peak versus off-peak hours, and knowing which zones are exempt from free parking policies. By planning your parking strategically and using digital payment methods, you can minimize costs and avoid penalties while enjoying convenient parking across Dubai.
Always verify current rates and schedules through the official RTA/Parkin app or website, as regulations and holiday schedules may be updated throughout the year.
Last Updated: October 2025 | Information based on official Parkin PJSC and RTA guidelines