Dubai Introduces Paid Parking at Key Supermarkets

Paid Parking at Spinneys and Waitrose Stores: A New Era in Dubai Shopping Parking

Dubai's urban infrastructure is dynamically evolving, especially in terms of the efficiency and sustainability of its transportation systems. One of the latest examples is the introduction of a paid parking system at some popular grocery chains, Spinneys and Waitrose. The initiative aims to reduce congestion, optimize parking space utilization, and ensure that shoppers have access to parking spots, particularly during busy peak times.

New Parking System: Transforming the Shopping Experience

Based on an agreement between Parkin—Dubai's largest paid parking provider—and the grocery chains, the system will be implemented at six selected locations. At Spinneys stores, paid parking will commence at Trade Center Road, Karama, Motor City, Al Meydan, and Umm Suqeim, while for Waitrose, it will be introduced at Motor City and Al Thanya branches.

Every location will feature a modern parking system equipped with automated entry systems, control solutions, and integration with the Parkin mobile app. This allows customers to conveniently pay for parking via their smartphones, enhancing transparency, convenience, and saving time.

Two Hours Free, Then Pay-per-Hour

The essence of the system is that the first two hours of parking remain free—enough time for a regular shopping trip. After this period, an hourly parking fee takes effect. This model encourages visitors to leave within the necessary time frame, thus increasing turnover rates and ensuring that excessive waiting times do not develop for other shoppers.

Thus, the system not only generates revenue but also offers significant traffic management advantages. The frequent congestion and lack of space around stores are expected to ease while accessibility for actual shoppers improves.

Parkin’s Role in Modernizing Urban Traffic System

Parkin has not played a key role for the first time in developing the city’s parking system. By the end of 2025, the company had nearly 219,000 paid parking spots in Dubai. Recently, it introduced paid parking in city areas like International Academic City, Sports City, Studio City, and Outsource City. Their latest project affects the International City area, with the paid system set to start on February 1st.

Parkin continually expands its offerings with new solutions. In October 2025, for instance, the company announced plans to construct five new multi-story parking facilities over the next two years. These new establishments will further strengthen Dubai’s parking infrastructure, particularly in densely populated, busy urban districts.

Variable Tariff, Dynamic Urban Management

In April 2025, Parkin introduced a variable parking tariff policy, differing rates within the city according to time, demand, and location. Higher fees apply during peak times, whereas lower rates are valid during less busy hours. This system not only leads to a transformation in parking habits but also aids in more effective traffic distribution.

The model aims to reduce the number of long-term occupied parking spaces and encourages quicker turnover—especially in commercial and service areas. Dynamic pricing also assists the municipality in better managing the growing vehicle traffic and supporting the spread of sustainable transportation alternatives.

Why Is This Step Important for Shoppers and the City?

The introduction of paid parking may not initially seem like a popular decision, but in the long run, it can bring clear advantages. Shoppers can expect a more predictable, smoother experience, as they won't have to circle the store multiple times to find a free spot. Additionally, stores benefit as the parking spaces truly become available for their customers, not for those who occupy them for long hours for other purposes.

From the city's perspective, traffic reduction, environmental impact mitigation, and more efficient use of public space all bring significant benefits. The issue of parking has long been a critical point in Dubai life, and such intelligent solutions play a crucial role in shaping the city of the future.

Summary: Digital Parking in Everyday Life

Dubai’s paid parking strategy takes a new level by appearing in the immediate environment of the shopping experience. Implementing it at Spinneys and Waitrose stores is just the first step. Payment through mobile apps, automated systems, and dynamic pricing all contribute to a more modern, organized, and efficient urban operation.

In the future, parking in Dubai will no longer be merely a necessary evil but a service that aligns with the city's digital transformation—in an intelligent, fair, and shopper-friendly manner.

(Source: Based on Parkin company announcement.)