In the United Arab Emirates, 2022 heralds a slew of new developments. The UAE will enjoy a two-and-a-half-day weekend, and few things will change. Paid parking in Dubai will stay free on Sundays instead of Fridays. What’s more, Dubai residents can now pay for parking via WhatsApp and save more. The payment mode allows users to save about 30 fils as compared to the other payment platforms. All you need to do, is, drop a message to RTA’s chatbot ‘Mahboub’ on WhatsApp with its number +97158 800 9090 in the format ‘[Plate Number] Space [Zone Number] Space [Duration]’. You will then receive an SMS to confirm the parking ticket linked to the plate number.
You can pay public parking fees in #Dubai easily via #Mahboub on WhatsApp +971588009090 & following the mentioned steps to save 30 fils on the regular SMS cost. This is also available for visitors with international phone numbers. #RTA #RTA_Digitalhttps://t.co/J71f0HVY48 pic.twitter.com/Jym3QneGIz
— RTA (@rta_dubai) April 4, 2022
Paid Parking System In Abu Dhabi Remains Unaffected
The paid street parking (Mawaqif) and toll gate (Darb) systems in Abu Dhabi will remain unaffected by the new UAE weekend system until further notice, according to authorities. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Abu Dhabi Department of Municipalities and Transport tweeted: “We’d like to remind everyone about the services that will be offered during the new weekly work schedule. Please note that Mawaqif and Darb services will remain operational until further notice.” According to the Khaleej Times.
The Darb Toll Gate System Is Open During Peak Hours From Saturday To Thursday
The Darb toll gate system is open during peak hours from Saturday to Thursday (from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.). There is no charge on Fridays and public holidays. The current Saturday-Thursday (8 a.m. to 12 a.m.) system will be used for Mawaqif till further notice. Monday through Thursday (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and Friday (7 a.m. to 3 p.m.) will be the hours of operation for ITC’s customer satisfaction centres (7 am to 12 pm).
Also Read: New UAE Weekend: You Will Have To Pay For Parking On These Days
The Regular Public Bus & Ferry Schedules Will Be Followed
For public buses and ferries, the usual schedule will be observed. Motorists passing through the Darb toll gates must pay a Dh4 toll tax during peak hours from Saturday to Thursday (7 am to 9 am and 5 pm to 7 pm). The daily toll was set at Dh16, with the first car paying Dh200 per month, the second car costing Dh150, and any further cars costing Dh100.
Also Read: Emirates Offers UAE Nationals & Residents A Quick Escape To Maldives This Summer