The Abu Dhabi Department of Transport has announced that there will no longer be free parking in the capital starting from August 18th. The announcement aims to reduce improper parking across the Emirate. The Abu Dhabi Department of Transport has expressed to all motorists and motor vehicle owners to acquire residential parking permits before the 18th of August to avoid any fines.
Paid parking in Abu Dhabi was first introduced in 2009. Since its inception, light blue and black parking spaces cost AED 2 per hour, while light blue and white spaces or premium bays cost AED 3 per hour. Now in its ninth year of operation, paid parking has expanded into residential areas to combat parking issues some residents face.
From August 18th, areas including Al Bateen and Al Muroor that were previously free, drivers will have to pay to park in these areas. Those who currently reside in these free-to-park areas can obtain a residential permit (unless they want to pay for parking). Motorists without a residential permit are not allowed to park in residential allocated areas between the hours of 9 PM and 8 AM.
Annual residential parking permits for expats will cost AED 800 for the first permit and AED 1,200 for the second permit. Additionally, permits can also be bought bi-annually with prices starting at AED 400 for the first car and AED 600 for the second car.
