Lifestyle
New paid visitor parking in Dubai communities begins
Some master developers are introducing paid parking for visitors in previously free zones, affecting how residents host guests. Here is what you need to know.
By 19Network Editorial Team · Aug 21, 2026 · 3 min read
Master developers in several Dubai communities have begun charging for visitor parking, a shift from the previously free system. This affects residents in communities by Emaar, Nakheel, and Dubai Properties, who now need to register guests to avoid fees.
New paid parking systems are being implemented for visitors in several of Dubai’s major gated communities, impacting residents who previously enjoyed free parking for their guests. The move, initiated by master developers like Emaar and Nakheel, aims to curb misuse and ensure residents have adequate parking, but it requires new steps for households hosting visitors. ## What changed? Visitor parking spaces in certain communities managed by major developers are no longer free of charge. To manage the new system, developers have partnered with parking management companies like Salik and Mawaqif. Visitors must now have their parking validated or registered by the resident they are visiting to avoid hourly or daily fees. For example, in Emaar communities, visitors can get free parking for a limited duration, after which charges apply. Residents can register their guests via community portals or apps, such as the Emaar One app, to provide them with a code for complimentary parking. Fees can be substantial, with some areas charging up to AED 10 per hour after an initial free period. ## Who is affected? This change primarily affects residents and their guests in communities managed by Dubai’s largest developers: - **Emaar Communities:** Residents in areas like Arabian Ranches, The Springs, and Emirates Living now need to pre-register their visitors. - **Nakheel Communities:** Areas such as Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC) and Jumeirah Islands have seen the introduction of paid visitor…