All You Need to Know About the New Parking System at Dubai Mall: Free Areas, Exemptions & More

New Parking System at Dubai Mall — one of the most anticipated upgrades in Dubai’s retail and tourism hub — is finally here. Starting July 1, 2024, The Dubai Mall has rolled out a technologically advanced, barrier-free parking system operated by Salik Company PJSC, the same authority that manages the city’s electronic toll system.

At UAE Explorer, we’ve put together a complete, easy-to-understand guide covering everything you need to know about the new parking system at Dubai Mall — including free parking areas, exemptions, charges, registration process, and useful tips for visitors.

Understanding the New Parking System at Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall, being the largest shopping and entertainment destination in the world, attracts more than 100 million visitors annually. Managing such a massive number of vehicles has always been a challenge. The new parking system has been introduced to improve traffic flow, minimize congestion, and enhance the visitor experience by making parking more efficient and transparent.

This smart system integrates with Salik’s automatic number plate recognition technology to track entry and exit without any barriers or physical tickets. The result? A smooth, contactless parking experience that saves time and eliminates queues during busy hours.

1. What Makes the New Parking System Different?

Unlike the old system where drivers collected paper tickets or waited at barriers, the new Dubai Mall parking system is fully automated and barrier-free. As soon as a vehicle enters, its license plate is detected by Salik’s smart cameras. The same process happens at exit, and the corresponding parking fee is automatically calculated and deducted from the driver’s Salik account.

This automation ensures:

• No manual intervention or physical barriers.
• Real-time monitoring of parking duration.
• Reduced congestion at entry and exit points.
• Seamless payments through existing Salik accounts.

2. When Was the System Introduced?

The new parking system officially went live on July 1, 2024, marking a major step in Dubai’s smart mobility initiatives. The system was launched in collaboration between Emaar Malls (Dubai Mall’s management) and Salik PJSC.

This partnership reflects Dubai’s long-term vision of becoming a global smart city, where digital solutions simplify everyday activities such as shopping, entertainment, and transportation.

3. Who Operates the New System?

The Salik Company PJSC, famous for its toll-gate network across Dubai, is responsible for the operation and management of this new system. Salik’s involvement ensures accuracy, reliability, and integration with existing toll payment infrastructure, making it convenient for millions of residents and tourists who already use Salik for road tolls.

4. Barrier-Free Entry and Exit System

The core highlight of the new parking system at Dubai Mall is the barrier-free entry and exit. With this technology:

• Vehicles can enter or leave without stopping.
• Number plates are automatically recognized by Salik cameras.
• Parking fees are calculated precisely based on your total duration.

This feature has significantly reduced traffic jams that were common at the mall’s parking entrances, particularly during weekends or large events.

5. Paid Parking Zones and Free Parking Areas

Not all parking areas at Dubai Mall are paid. The management has smartly divided parking zones into paid and free sections to balance visitor convenience and crowd control.

Paid Parking Zones

• Fashion Parking
• Grand Parking
• Cinema Parking

These are premium and high-demand zones, located closest to luxury retail areas, cinemas, and the Fashion Avenue. They now operate under the Salik-enabled paid system.

Free Parking Zones

• Zabeel Parking
• Fountain Views Parking

Visitors can still enjoy free parking in these zones, which offer convenient access via internal walkways or shuttle connections to the main mall area.

6. Parking Fee Structure: Complete Breakdown

Weekdays (Monday – Thursday)

Weekends (Friday – Sunday)

This structure allows visitors to enjoy shopping, dining, or entertainment without immediate concern about parking fees for short stays. The charges mainly target extended parking durations, discouraging misuse of the spaces by non-shoppers.

7. Parking Fee Calculation and Automatic Payment

The parking fee is calculated automatically once your vehicle exits the parking zone. The system measures the total time your vehicle stays within the paid zones and deducts the fee directly from your Salik balance.

How It Works:

1. Enter the parking zone – your vehicle number is captured automatically.
2. Enjoy your time at Dubai Mall – shop, dine, or explore.
3. Exit the parking zone – your total duration is calculated.
4. Fee deduction – the charge is automatically debited from your Salik account.

No paper tickets, no queues, and no manual payment steps. It’s fast, accurate, and secure.

8. Salik Account Requirements

To use the new parking system, you must:

• Have an active Salik tag on your vehicle.
• Ensure you have sufficient balance in your Salik account.
• Register your vehicle correctly with the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

If your Salik balance is insufficient, you may face a pending charge which must be cleared before your next use. Regularly checking your balance helps avoid inconveniences.

9. How to Top Up or Manage Your Salik Account

Motorists can easily manage their Salik accounts through:

• Salik official website (salik.ae)
• Salik mobile app
• RTA Dubai app
• Authorized recharge centers and petrol stations

Payments can be made using credit/debit cards, direct bank transfers, or UAE digital wallets.

10. Exemptions for People of Determination

One of the most appreciated features of the new parking system at Dubai Mall is its inclusivity. People of Determination (individuals with disabilities) are fully exempted from parking fees when they register their vehicles through Salik’s special exemption program.

How to Apply:

1. Visit the Salik website or a Customer Happiness Centre.
2. Provide necessary documents such as vehicle registration and People of Determination ID.
3. Once approved, your vehicle is automatically recognized for free parking.

This initiative aligns with Dubai’s commitment to accessibility and equal convenience for all residents and visitors.

11. Dispute Resolution and Customer Support

If you face any issue such as incorrect charges, failed deductions, or Salik balance errors, assistance is easily available. You can:

• Call Salik’s 24/7 helpline.
• Email support@salik.ae.
• Visit a Customer Happiness Centre located across Dubai.

Always keep your vehicle plate number and Salik account details ready for quick resolution.

12. Purpose Behind the New System

The main objectives of the new parking system are:

• To reduce parking congestion during peak shopping hours.
• To encourage shorter stays and better space availability.
• To enhance visitor experience through automation and speed.
• To support Dubai’s smart mobility goals.

By managing parking demand effectively, Dubai Mall can accommodate more visitors without expanding physical parking space.

13. Impact on Visitors and Shoppers

While some shoppers were initially concerned about paid zones, most have welcomed the efficient, hassle-free process. Benefits include:

• Faster entry/exit with zero waiting time.
• Less traffic chaos inside parking structures.
• Transparency in fee calculation.
• Clear distinction between premium and regular parking zones.

Frequent visitors can plan their trips better, opting for free parking zones during longer visits or weekdays.

14. Tips to Save on Parking at Dubai Mall

Here are some practical ways to save money and time under the new system:

• Use Zabeel or Fountain Views parking for free access.
• Visit during weekends if your stay is under 6 hours (it’s free).
• Keep your Salik balance topped up to avoid penalties.
• Use public transport such as the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa Metro Link Bridge for quick access.
• Arrive early to find spots closer to mall entrances.

15. Integration with Dubai’s Smart City Vision

This system isn’t just about convenience — it’s part of Dubai’s grand Smart Mobility plan. Salik’s collaboration with Emaar integrates AI-based vehicle recognition, digital payments, and real-time data analytics to support sustainability.

It minimizes paper waste, fuel consumption, and idle vehicle time, contributing to Dubai’s green and digital transformation goals.

16. Future Developments and Expansion Plans

Dubai Mall plans to continuously enhance this parking model. Possible upcoming features include:

• Mobile notifications when free time is about to end.
• Real-time parking space tracking via the app.
• Integrated loyalty programs where frequent shoppers earn free parking hours.
• Expanded barrier-free parking to other Emaar properties like Dubai Marina Mall and Springs Souk.

17. Why This Change Was Needed

Before 2024, The Dubai Mall experienced significant congestion during weekends and holidays. Vehicles often queued for 15–20 minutes just to exit the parking. By implementing Salik’s automatic system, these delays have been reduced dramatically.

This initiative also discourages long-term parking by non-shoppers, ensuring availability for genuine visitors.

18. Visitor Reactions and Public Feedback

Early feedback has been mostly positive. Visitors appreciate the smooth process, accurate billing, and time savings. Some have suggested adding more clear signages and notifications for free zones, which Emaar has promised to implement in upcoming updates.

Social media discussions highlight that the convenience outweighs the cost, especially for short or moderate visits.

19. Comparison with Other Dubai Malls

While Dubai Mall is the first to adopt a Salik-operated system, similar solutions are expected in other major shopping centers. Malls like Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Mirdif may soon follow this example to enhance parking management and improve customer experience.

20. Environmental Benefits of the New System

Beyond convenience, the system contributes to sustainability by:

• Reducing vehicle idling and fuel waste.
• Minimizing paper ticket usage.
• Lowering carbon emissions due to shorter waiting times.
• Encouraging use of digital systems over manual ones.

This aligns perfectly with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 vision.

21. Common Misconceptions About the New Parking Rules

Many visitors misunderstood initial announcements. Here’s clarification:

• Not all parking is paid — Zabeel and Fountain Views remain free.
• You don’t need a new tag if you already have an active Salik tag.
• Parking fees are not linked to toll gate charges; they are separate transactions.
• Tourists with rental cars can use the system as long as their rental agency’s Salik account is active.

22. Parking Etiquette and Safety Tips

Even with automation, responsible parking matters. Follow these tips:

• Park only within marked bays.
• Avoid double parking or blocking exits.
• Respect People of Determination spaces.
• Keep emergency exits and pedestrian crossings clear.
• Follow staff instructions in case of any technical glitch.

23. For Tourists and Short-Term Visitors

Tourists driving rental cars can use the new system effortlessly. Most rental agencies already have Salik tags installed, so charges are deducted automatically and billed at return.

If you’re unsure whether your rental has Salik, ask the agency before parking at Dubai Mall.

24. For Long-Term and Frequent Visitors

Frequent shoppers or workers who regularly visit the mall may benefit from upcoming membership or loyalty integrations with Emaar Rewards or Emirates Skywards. These programs might offer complimentary parking hours or discounts based on spending levels.

25. What Happens If You Don’t Have a Salik Tag?

If a vehicle enters without an active Salik tag, it’s still recognized via plate scanning, but the system will flag it for manual review. The visitor may receive a notification or fine for unpaid parking, so it’s always best to activate your tag before visiting.

26. Role of Emaar in the New Initiative

Emaar Malls has worked closely with Salik to ensure the system blends with Dubai Mall’s overall digital infrastructure. The mall’s management views this move as a step toward smart retail integration, where convenience, efficiency, and technology combine to enhance customer satisfaction.

27. Parking for Electric Vehicles and Valet Services

Dubai Mall also offers EV charging stations within selected parking zones. These areas remain accessible under the new system, with regular or free time limits depending on your stay.

Valet parking remains available for visitors preferring personalized service, with charges separate from Salik’s automated system.

28. Importance for the UAE’s Tourism and Retail Sectors

The Dubai Mall parking upgrade directly supports the UAE’s tourism strategy by:

• Making large-scale retail spaces more organized.
• Improving visitor turnover and satisfaction.
• Reflecting Dubai’s innovation in customer experience.
• Reducing operational inefficiencies for mall management.

This sets a new benchmark for malls worldwide.

29. Integration with Future Transport Systems

Dubai is planning to connect smart parking with AI traffic management systems, autonomous vehicles, and digital transport cards in the future. The new Dubai Mall system is a pilot example of how mobility and retail experiences can merge seamlessly.

30. Final Thoughts: The Future of Parking in Dubai

The new parking system at Dubai Mall represents more than a convenience upgrade — it’s a symbol of Dubai’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and world-class visitor experience.

By embracing digital solutions like Salik-powered automation, Dubai continues to strengthen its reputation as a global leader in smart city transformation.

At UAE Explorer, we believe this initiative will inspire other malls and facilities across the UAE to follow suit, bringing a more organized, eco-friendly, and time-efficient parking culture for all.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the FAQs of new parking system at dubai mall:

1. What is the new parking system at Dubai Mall?
It’s an automated, barrier-free parking solution powered by Salik PJSC that calculates and deducts parking fees automatically through your Salik account.

2. When did the new system start?
The system became active on July 1, 2024.

3. Which parking zones are paid?
Fashion, Grand, and Cinema parking zones are paid.

4. Which areas remain free?
Zabeel and Fountain Views zones offer free parking.

5. How are fees deducted?
Fees are automatically deducted from your linked Salik account based on your parking duration.

6. Do I need a Salik tag to park?
Yes, all vehicles must have an active Salik tag for seamless entry, exit, and payment.

7. Are People of Determination exempted?
Yes, they can apply through Salik for free parking privileges.

8. What happens if I stay beyond the free hours?
Charges apply as per the fee table, starting from AED 20 on weekdays after 4 hours.

9. Can tourists use the system with rental cars?
Yes, rental cars equipped with Salik tags will have fees automatically billed.

10. What should I do if I’m charged incorrectly?
Contact Salik’s customer support via phone, email, or visit a Customer Happiness Centre to resolve any disputes.

In summary, the new parking system at Dubai Mall blends technology with convenience, ensuring visitors enjoy smoother access, faster payments, and a more pleasant shopping experience. Whether you’re a frequent shopper, tourist, or local resident, understanding how the system works helps you make the most of your visit — the UAE Explorer way.