Dubai's Cutting-Edge Automated Parking Revolution
Dubai's New Automated Parking System: All You Need to Know
Dubai once again proves that it is at the forefront of technological advancement and innovation worldwide. The city has now introduced a fully automated, ticketless, hassle-free parking system that makes drivers' everyday lives easier. This system is already operational in the eastern part of Palm Jumeirah and offers numerous benefits compared to traditional parking methods. But how exactly does this new technology work, and what are the costs involved?
The Future of Parking: Ticketless and Barrier-Free
The main advantage of the new parking system is that it is fully automated and ticket-free. Drivers no longer have to exchange parking tickets or stand in line at parking machines. Instead, they simply park in an available spot, and the system automatically recognizes the vehicle. Sensors built into the parking spaces and cameras placed at ground level (approximately 45 centimeters high) record the vehicle's license plate number and the start time of parking. The system then automatically calculates the parking fee, which must be settled upon vehicle departure.
Parkonic, the private company operating the system, highlights that parking is now completely seamless: there are no barriers, tickets, or long wait times. Drivers only need to park in an available spot and then simply drive away upon departure. The cameras automatically record the parking time, eliminating the need for manual input or ticket management.
How Does the System Work?
When a vehicle enters the parking area, sensors and cameras immediately recognize its license plate. Vehicles must park parallel to the road for the cameras to read both the front and rear license plates. The system then automatically registers the start of parking and calculates the fee upon vehicle departure. Payment can be made in several ways: online via the Parkonic website, by scanning a QR code, with cash or card at payment machines located in the parking area. Additionally, Parkonic staff present in the area can provide assistance if needed.
How Much Does Parking Cost?
The parking spaces located between the Rixos and Anantara hotels on the eastern part of Palm Jumeirah cost 10 dirhams per hour. The parking lot operates 24 hours a day, making it accessible anytime. Interestingly, parking spaces on the western part of Palm Jumeirah remain free. Due to the flexibility of the payment process and technological advancement, the new system greatly simplifies the parking experience.
The Technology Behind: Artificial Intelligence and Collaboration
Parkonic is introducing this innovative parking system not only on Palm Jumeirah but in other areas as well. For example, there is already an 'obstacle-free, AI-powered parking system' operational in the Dubai Harbour area. Here, cameras that record vehicle license plates automatically deduct the parking fee from the vehicle's Salik account, an electronic payment system widely used on Dubai's road network. This solution is similar to the system already implemented in the Dubai Mall, where parking fees are also automatically deducted.
The collaboration between Parkonic and Salik was established in November 2022 and is valid for five years. According to the agreement, Parkonic favors Salik among payment methods and handles a portion of parking revenue through the Salik eWallet system. This partnership covers more than 135,000 parking spaces in the United Arab Emirates, including popular locations like Global Village, The Beach – JBR, and Central Park in Dubai.
Where Else is Parkonic Available?
The Parkonic system is already operational in numerous popular locations in the UAE. In Dubai, places like Global Village, The Beach – JBR, Central Park, Arc Towers, and Marsa Al Bateen use this technology. In Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Festival (P4) and Khorfakkan Beach, and in Sharjah, Al Qasba and Majaz Park P1 benefit from this innovative parking system. Additionally, Umbrella Beach in Fujairah has also joined the Parkonic network.
Conclusion
Dubai's new automated parking system not only makes drivers' lives easier but also demonstrates how modern technology can be integrated into everyday life. The ticketless, barrier-free, and fully automated system not only saves time but also reduces stress associated with parking. The use of artificial intelligence and cameras ensures a seamless and efficient parking experience, while the payment process is extremely flexible. If you love the advantages of modern technology, you are sure to appreciate this new system, which is slowly but surely spreading across the entire country.
