The emirate of Sharjah has announced new rules for daily parking zones. Starting November 1, motorists will be charged for parking spaces from 8am to midnight, extending the payment period by two hours from the previous schedule of 8am to 10pm, Khaleej Times has reported. Sharjah Municipality said the new 16-hour schedule applies to all weekdays and public holidays, and the changes are aimed at improving parking efficiency and accessibility in the city’s central and commercial areas.
These “blue and white” (or “blue”) zones are marked with appropriate road signs indicating the rules and rates. Motorists are invited to pay for their parking using SMS messages or through parking tickets purchased at special terminals. Those who frequently use municipal parking services can take out a prepaid subscription and avoid paying for each hour or day.
Extended operating hours and updated parking rates
According to the municipality, the decision to extend the paid parking period was made in order to better regulate parked vehicles in high-traffic areas and increase the rotation of cars in parking lots. Thus, in the “blue zones” the daily fee is charged from 8:00 to 00:00, seven days a week. The following payment rates are currently in effect (per transaction):
| Hours | Fees |
| 1 hour | Dh2 |
| 2 hours | Dh5 |
| 3 hours | Dh8 |
| 5 hours | Dh12 |
The municipality emphasizes that drivers should pay close attention to parking signs and comply with payment requirements to avoid fines. Convenient SMS payment services and electronic platforms provide drivers with additional flexibility, which is especially convenient during peak hours and for those who visit commercial areas on business.
Subscription options for businesses and individuals
To reduce the time spent on regular payments, Sharjah authorities offer prepaid subscriptions for residents and companies that allow them to use public spaces in selected areas or throughout the city. Different subscription levels are designed to accommodate flexible needs: for example, if a driver or company mainly operates in two specific areas, they can choose a subscription just for them, or, if coverage is required much wider, a subscription for the entire emirate. Below are examples of subscriptions aimed at businesses:
Commercial parking for all areas:
| Duration | Cost |
| 10 days | Dh170 |
| 20 days | Dh290 |
| 30 days | Dh390 |
| 3 months | Dh1,050 |
| 6 months | Dh1,750 |
| 12 months | Dh2,850 |
Commercial parking is only available for two areas:
| Duration | Cost |
| 3 months | Dh600 |
| 6 months | Dh1,100 |
| 12 months | Dh2,100 |
The municipality emphasizes that the calculations for private individuals may differ depending on whether the user plans to park regularly throughout the city or only in specific areas. For many residents, such a subscription turns out to be more profitable than purchasing parking tickets daily. Experts in the field of urban transport note that the extended duration of paid parking allows for more rational use of available parking spaces, while increasing driver discipline.