Why Do Parkonic's Parking Fees Differ?

Why Do Parkonic's Parking Fees Vary by Location and Charge on Holidays?

The parking system in the United Arab Emirates has undergone significant transformations in recent years, particularly in rapidly growing cities like Dubai. Parkonic, as one of the leading parking service providers, has introduced its digital pay-parking system at over 200 locations, most recently in the Discovery Gardens residential area. Nevertheless, many residents and motorists are asking valid questions: why must they pay more in certain areas? Why are they not subject to the free parking rules typically in place on weekends or holidays? In this post, we delve into the specifics of the Parkonic system and examine the workings of the local community parking framework.

A Non-Uniform Tariff System, but Community-Specific Approach

According to Parkonic's official stance, parking fees are not based on a centrally determined city rate, but rather on a parking framework tailored to each community. This means that fees, coverage, and inspection schedule can vary by location. Each neighborhood is different, with varying land ownership backgrounds, urbanization levels, traffic behavior, and the number of available parking spaces.

In some areas, for example, there is greater vehicular traffic or fewer private parking spaces for the apartments, necessitating more controlled regulation. In other areas, a less strict system may suffice, allowing for more favorable rates.

Why Don’t Discovery Gardens Residents Have Unlimited Outdoor Parking?

In Discovery Gardens, the number of public parking spaces is limited, and these are used by hundreds of residents and visitors daily. If certain buildings or residential units were given exclusive outdoor parking, it would significantly reduce others' access and distort the traffic balance.

Instead, Parkonic implemented a system that operates parking within regulated frameworks, balancing the needs of residents, visitors, and through traffic. The purpose of paid parking is not exclusion but demand regulation and ensuring accessibility.

Why is the Monthly Permit in Discovery Gardens 945 Dirhams?

The 945-dirham monthly parking permit does not apply to all residents, only those who wish to register an additional vehicle beyond the default free resident allocation. This fee is part of the approved parking framework for the community, which takes several factors into account:

the intensity of demand,

control and maintenance costs,

the infrastructure of the digital system,

as well as the specific requirements of the area.

It is important to note that Parkonic does not unilaterally set prices but works jointly with relevant authorities based on approved regulations. Resident feedback is recorded and can modify conditions through official channels if necessary.

Why Must You Pay on Sundays and Holidays?

Many people are accustomed to free parking on weekends and holidays in municipal RTA parking areas within Dubai. However, this applies only to public parking spaces managed by the RTA. Systems operated by Parkonic, such as those in Discovery Gardens, function as private residential zones with separate regulations.

Here, paid parking may apply on Sundays and holidays if indicated by on-site signs and the community framework. This is important as community operation and parking occupancy may not necessarily decrease on those days.

Prohibited Private Rental and Space Exchange

Parkonic’s system is digital and operates only based on verified and approved permits, registrations, and resident data. It is not permitted to illegally rent or sell parking spaces—such as subletting a space to another person. Such actions distort the system, increase the chances of abuse, and undermine legitimate access.

However, Parkonic is open to authorized parking-sharing programs. These operate within structured, regulated frameworks and ensure equitable access and transparency among users.

Conclusion: Regulation, Transparency, Digital Control

The introduction of paid parking in many areas of the UAE—including various residential districts in Dubai—serves not merely to increase revenue. The aim is to eliminate previously rampant, chaotic, and often unjust parking practices while safeguarding the interests of residents and traffic efficiency.

The systems operated by Parkonic are location-specific, digitally monitored, and long-term planned. While their introduction can cause initial tension among residents, the goal is to provide orderly, equal access, which in the long run improves urban mobility and community quality of life.

More residential communities are expected to adopt similar regulations in the future—it is advisable to become informed and understand how these systems operate and how to participate in them knowingly, lawfully, and effectively.

(Source of the article: Based on Parkonic's announcement.)