Motorists in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO) will soon need to budget for on-street parking, as a new ticketless, fully digital system prepares to go live across the community.
Managed by Parkonic, the initiative introduces a time-based pricing structure and integrates directly with drivers’ Salik accounts for automatic billing, marking a significant shift from traditional parking models in Dubai.
The official activation date has yet to be confirmed.
Tiered parking fees
Under the new regulations, parking charges will apply from Monday to Saturday, with free parking on Sundays and public holidays.
The hourly rates are structured as follows:
- Dh4 per hour: 8am to 4pm
- Dh6 per hour (peak): 4pm to 8pm
- Dh4 per hour: 8pm to midnight
The higher evening tariff is designed to manage demand during peak hours, particularly in mixed-use residential and commercial zones.
How the cashless system works
Unlike conventional paid parking zones in Dubai, DSO will not have:
- Physical ticket machines
- Cash payment options
- QR code payment points
Instead, the system operates entirely through digital number plate recognition.
Drivers will have two payment options:
1. SMS Parking
Motorists can send an SMS to the number displayed on signage to initiate a parking session.
2. Automatic Salik Deduction (Default Method)
If no SMS session is activated, the system will automatically deduct the parking fee from the vehicle’s Salik account upon exit.
The vehicle’s Salik account is the default payment method unless SMS payment is successfully initiated.
Advice for drivers without Salik card
The parking policy applies to all vehicles, including those belonging to People of Determination (POD).
Drivers without a Salik account, or those with insufficient balance, are advised to use the SMS payment option. Failure to pay may result in:
- Fines
- Possible enforcement measures, including blacklisting
Salik deductions remain subject to the toll operator’s standard terms and conditions.
What residents and visitors should do
With activation pending, residents and regular visitors to Dubai Silicon Oasis are encouraged to:
- Ensure their Salik account is active and sufficiently funded
- Familiarise themselves with the tiered rate structure
- Monitor official announcements from Parkonic for the confirmed start date
The move reflects Dubai’s continued push toward smart city infrastructure and automated mobility systems, while also reshaping parking habits in one of the emirate’s fastest-growing communities.
