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Using Mall of the Emirates parking to skip traffic? You’ll now be charged, what drivers need to know

Using Mall of the Emirates parking to skip traffic? You’ll now be charged, what drivers need to know

TOI World Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Jun 08, 2025, 13:59 IST

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Mall of the Emirates implemented a barrierless parking system on February 3, 2025, following its successful launch at Deira City Centre. Motorists now experience seamless entry and exit without tickets, though parking fees remain unchanged. A Dh3 charge is imposed for using the parking lot as a shortcut, and unpaid fees after three days incur a Dh150 fine.

Using Mall of the Emirates parking to skip traffic? You’ll now be charged, what drivers need to know

New Dh3 Charge at Mall of the Emirates for Drivers Passing Through Without Parking / Image: X

The ‘barrierless parking’ system at Mall of the Emirates (MoE) in Dubai began on February 3, 2025. Over the weekend before launch, motorists who visited the mall received notifications regarding the implementation of the new system, which had already been activated at Deira City Centre in January, according to developer Majid Al Futtaim (MAF). The introduction of this paid parking system was first announced in October 2024 after MAF entered into a five-year contract with Parkin PJSC, the largest operator of paid public parking facilities in Dubai. Using Parkin’s seamless parking technology, the new system removes the need for barriers or tickets, allowing motorists to drive in and out without stopping or waiting. Despite the upgrade, MAF confirmed parking fees remain unchanged, stating:“Our new seamless parking upgrade promises a ticketless and barrierless experience so you can efficiently enter and exit hassle-free without any delays or concerns about lost tickets.”

New update: Addressing traffic abuse

A key new update relates to unauthorised use of the MoE parking lot as a traffic shortcut. Some motorists have been passing through the parking area to bypass congestion in Al Barsha’s internal roads and gain quicker access to Sheikh Zayed Road. To address this, MAF has clarified that even simply passing through the Mall of the Emirates parking area is now subject to a flat charge of Dh3.

Key features of the barrierless system

Motorists do not need to stop at any barriers on entry or exit.
First 4 hours of parking are free on weekdays.
Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) are completely free.
After the 4-hour window, charges apply and an SMS with a payment link is sent to the mobile number linked to the vehicle’s registration.

Parking fee structure:

0–4 hours: Free
4–5 hours: Dh20
5–6 hours: Dh40
6–7 hours: Dh60
7–8 hours: Dh100
More than 8 hours: Dh150
Overnight parking: Prohibited. Fine: Dh200 per day

How the system works

Parkin’s automated camera system scans license plates to track entry and exit times.

There is no need for paper tickets or mobile apps.

Motorists will receive an SMS with the total due amount and a secure payment link.
Payment can be completed via:
- Debit/Credit Card
- Apple Pay
- Parkin App

Validating free parking

Motorists can extend or waive their parking charges under specific conditions. These must be validated at designated customer service counters:

Spend Dh150 or more at the mall to get free parking for the whole day.
Visiting VOX Cinemas or Ski Dubai? You get an additional two hours of free parking (on top of the standard four), total of six hours free.
Validate at:
- Mall Customer Service Desk (receipt showing a minimum Dh150 spend)
- VOX Customer Service (show cinema ticket)
- Parking Management Office (mall receipts can be reviewed here)
- Valet Parking (validated automatically)
People of Determination (PoD): Can have fees waived at the Customer Service Desk upon showing valid documentation.

Is registration needed?

MAF said: “There is no need to register or sign up if the vehicle is already registered in the UAE.” The system is fully integrated with UAE vehicle registration data.

Motorists will be contacted via the phone number linked to the registered car.
If using a rented or borrowed vehicle, any parking charges or fines will be sent to the rental company or registered owner

What if you don’t pay?

If payment is not made within three days, the motorist will face a fine of Dh150.
MAF explained:

“Within two days of leaving, you will get an SMS reminder. On day 3, you'll get a reminder phone call to pay. If you still haven't paid after the 3rd day, you will be chargedthe standard parking violation in Dubai of Dh150.”
This is in line with standard UAE parking violation policy.

Fines for improper use

Using parking spaces reserved for People of Determination without a valid permit or failing to display it properly will result in a Dh1,000 fine.

Privacy and data storage

MAF has assured that:

Vehicle and license plate data are securely protected.
No personal information is shared with third parties.
Vehicle data is stored as long as the vehicle is registered with UAE authorities.
Transaction records are archived for three years, though this period may be shortened at any time.

What If my plate isn't recognised?

MAF said their system has a 99.99% accuracy rate in reading number plates.“In the unlikely scenario this happens, the motorist won't be charged,” the company added. Motorists can report issues to 800-Park (7275) or visit the Mall Customer Service Desk for help.

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TOI World Desk

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