Zen Cluster Parking Woes: A Community's Struggle

Parking Dispute in Discovery Gardens: Zen Cluster Tenants Feel Disadvantaged

In the Dubai Discovery Gardens residential community, a widespread issue has resurfaced: the misunderstandings and unequal treatment surrounding the introduction of paid parking. The new system, activated on January 19, seemed at first glance to offer a uniform solution, allowing all residents to use available parking spaces according to clear regulations. However, tenants of studio apartments in the Zen Cluster, also known as the pink buildings (residential buildings numbered 1 to 20), quickly realized that their situation does not fit into this general framework.

Introduction of the Parkonic System and Initial Promise

The Parkonic system, which oversees community parking at Discovery Gardens, previously informed residents that all living units without private parking would be entitled to a free parking permit. Those using additional vehicles could purchase a paid subscription through the app for 945 dirhams per month. According to this rule, studio apartment tenants—traditionally parking on the street—thought they would be entitled to at least one free street parking space.

Numerous residents immediately registered via the Parkonic app, uploaded their Ejari documents, received a PIN code, and their status appeared as 'approved,' leading them to conclude they were entitled to free parking.

New Circular and Start of Misunderstandings

A few days later, however, a new circular arrived—this time specifically addressed to Zen Cluster residents—clearly stating that studio apartment tenants are only eligible for a parking space if it is located in the basement of their own building, i.e., designated as private parking. Since no such basement parking spaces are allotted to studio apartments, the tenants living there have effectively lost the option of free parking. This means Zen Cluster residents can only park on the street under visitor rates, regardless of whether they live there or not.

Residents' Reactions: Community Outrage

The decision has sparked significant dissatisfaction. In a WhatsApp group where more than 75 residents share community news, several have noted that Parkonic does not provide enough parking spaces in the basements, forcing studio tenants to pay for a service that is free elsewhere.

Several residents have raised the point that residents of other clusters, such as those living in lower-level, non-pink buildings, automatically receive the free street parking permit regardless of the type of apartment they live in. This unequal treatment is seen as unfair and discriminatory in the eyes of Zen Cluster residents.

Depth of the Issue: More Than Just Parking

The dispute is not just about who gets to park where. Residents also pointed out that all community facilities—like the pool, tennis court, or gym—are located on various streets. As per the new rule, cars parked outside their building are automatically deemed 'unauthorized,' meaning even a short visit incurs a cost. One resident explained that even stopping for a few minutes in front of a shop or pharmacy means they have to pay for parking. This not only causes inconvenience but can also result in a significant expense by the end of the month.

Financial and Emotional Burden on Residents

Most Zen Cluster studio tenants are middle-class families already paying high rents, many of whom have lived in the same apartment for years. Based on earlier promises, they legitimately felt entitled to at least one parking space, even if not in the basement. Now, they are faced with a choice: either pay the visitor rate or find parking elsewhere—a task becoming increasingly difficult within Dubai.

Proposed Solutions, Discussions, and Expectations

Several residents have reached out to their landlords and building management, seeking clarity and fair judgment. One property management company noted that negotiations with Parkonic are ongoing, attempting to find a compromise solution.

The common standpoint among residents is that now that the new system has eliminated illegal parking and significantly improved the parking situation, there should be no hindrance for Zen Cluster studio tenants to also enjoy the benefits of free street parking like everyone else.

Summary: Issue of Trust and Equality

The Discovery Gardens community has always sought peace and comfort. The principles of the new parking system are understandable: regulation, order, entitlement. However, the system only truly works if all residents receive equal treatment. The fact that some Zen Cluster residents now suffer disadvantages is problematic not only from a practical but also an emotional viewpoint.

Residents are not asking for luxury but a fair provision of a fundamental daily necessity—parking. It is hoped that decision-makers will listen to this voice and modify the current regulations to truly reflect the interests and needs of the entire community.

(Source: Based on Parkonic announcement.)