Parkin to Manage Mosque Parking Across Dubai with One-Hour Free Access During Prayers

Dubai’s leading parking operator, Parkin, is set to take over the management of around 2,100 parking spaces across 59 mosques in the city. This new initiative, aimed at improving traffic flow and accessibility during prayer times, is expected to roll out in phases starting August 2025.

Free Hour During Prayer, Paid Outside

Under the new system, worshippers will be granted one hour of free parking during designated prayer times. Outside of those hours, the parking spaces will follow standard paid parking rules. The initiative balances community needs with organized parking enforcement, a growing necessity as Dubai continues to urbanize.

“We want to ensure that worshippers have access without disruption, while also maintaining order throughout the day,” a spokesperson from Parkin said. The integration of smart payment systems and clear signage will help guide drivers on when charges apply.

Part of a Broader Smart Parking Push

This mosque-focused expansion supports Dubai’s broader goal of modernizing its urban infrastructure under the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Parkin, which recently became a publicly listed company, already operates over 197,000 paid parking spaces in the emirate through government support.

The inclusion of mosques in Parkin’s portfolio reflects an effort to streamline parking across both commercial and community zones. It also reduces illegal parking and traffic congestion during peak worship hours, particularly on Fridays.

The implementation will begin gradually, with the first wave expected in early August. Worshippers are advised to check for signage and updates near participating mosques to avoid fines during non-prayer hours.