Residents of Dubai who frequently visit Dubai Mall and drive their own cars should brace themselves for an additional expense starting July 1. With the introduction of the paid parking system, a leisurely day out or a quick shopping trip could cost more than expected, particularly for those who tend to stay longer than a few hours.
The new parking charges are designed to encourage quicker turnover of parking spaces, but for many visitors, it feels like an unforeseen burden. This move may catch regular visitors off guard, adding an unwelcome cost to their daily routines. Families who usually spend extended hours shopping, dining, or watching movies will need to be particularly vigilant to avoid hefty charges.
Salik System Integration
The integration of the Salik system into Dubai Mall’s parking management brings a modern and hassle-free approach to toll collection. Unlike traditional methods that require toll gates and barriers, this system enables automatic deductions from registered Salik accounts as vehicles enter and exit the parking areas.
Breakdown of Parking Rates
The new parking fees apply as follows:
Weekdays (Monday to Thursday):
- Up to 4 hours: Free
- 4 to 5 hours: AED 20
- 5 to 6 hours: AED 60
- 6 to 7 hours: AED 80
- 8 to 12 hours: AED 100
- 12 to 24 hours: AED 500
- Over 24 hours: AED 1,000
Weekends (Friday to Sunday):
- Up to 6 hours: Free
- 6 to 7 hours: AED 80
- 7 to 8 hours: AED 100
- 8 to 12 hours: AED 200
- 12 to 24 hours: AED 500
- Over 24 hours: AED 1,000
Areas Affected
These fees will be enforced at the Grand Parking, Cinema Parking, and Fashion Parking sections. However, Zabeel and Fountain Views offer some reprieve, remaining free of charge—for now.
But how long can residents rely on these exceptions? There’s concern among the residents that it’s only a matter of time before the free zones also fall under the paid system, adding to the overall frustration.
Here is a post from Dubai Media Office confirming this recent news update for the shopping complex:
. @TheDubaiMall, in collaboration with @Salik_ae, will introduce a paid parking system starting Monday, July 1. The new parking system aims to enhance guest experience, improve parking availability, and streamline the process. pic.twitter.com/nXjaS3vuBu
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) June 19, 2024
Here is another post on Twitter on the official account of Dubai Mall about the Salik collaboration:
ابتداءً من 1 يوليو، ستكون تجربتك في #دبي_مول أكثر سلاسة مع نظام المواقف للسيارات من سالك
Starting 1 July your experience at #DubaiMall will be seamless like never before with @Salik_ae free flow parking system pic.twitter.com/MQ9qGCFRMo
— Dubai Mall by Emaar (@TheDubaiMall) June 21, 2024
For Dubai residents who love visiting Dubai Mall but need to drive, this new system feels like an unnecessary strain. The objective might be to manage traffic and parking space more efficiently, but for the everyday visitor, it ironically adds more congestion—of the financial kind. As July 1 approaches, regular visitors will need to rethink their plans or prepare to pay up.