Sharjah has recently made a change to its parking rules. From November 1, 2024, people will have to pay for parking for longer hours in areas marked with blue signs. These areas often found in busy commercial and residential zones will now have paid parking until midnight.

While this change might seem like a small thing, it’s a big deal for many residents. By making people pay for longer hours, the city hopes to free up parking spaces previously taken up by people who don’t live or work in the area. While residents and workers will have a better chance of finding a parking spot.

Sharjah Implements Longer Paid Parking Hours

On 27 October 2024, Sharjah authorities made changes to its parking rules. From November 1, 2024, people will pay for parking from 8 AM to midnight instead of 8 AM to 10 PM. This change is to help reduce traffic and make sure everyone can find a parking spot, especially in the evenings when it’s busy.

The rapid growth of the city brings in more residents and tourists, increasing the need for more parking spaces. By making people pay for parking for longer hours, the city hopes to discourage long-term parking by non-residents in the same spot all day.

As a result, it will free up more space for people who live and work in Sharjah. The new rules marked by blue signs in the affected areas, are a good way to deal with the growing need for parking and support the city’s development.

Is the Paid Parking System a Success?

Many Sharjah residents have shared positive feedback about the new extended parking hours.

Abu Ahmed, a long-time resident of Sharjah used to have trouble finding parking near his home because other cars would take up all the spaces at night. Now, with the extended parking hours, it will be easier for him to find a parking spot.

Delivery boys like Mashooq Khan are also happy with the new rules. Before, it was difficult for them to find parking, especially in the evenings. Now, with the extended 16-hour paid parking, they will be able to find parking more easily and deliver their goods more efficiently.

The new parking rules are also good for visitors and tourists. They can now spend more time exploring Sharjah without worrying about finding a parking spot. It will also boost Sharjah’s local economy.

Overall, the new parking rules are a positive change for Sharjah. These rules will reduce traffic congestion, make parking easier, and improve the quality of life in the city.

Parking Fees And Payment Method

The Sharjah City Municipality has announced that paid parking hours in “blue zones” have been extended and now apply every day of the week, including official holidays. To use paid parking zones in Sharjah, drivers need to pay fees based on how long they park.

The fees can be paid through the SMS parking service, which is easy and convenient. The following parking fees will be payable:

Parking Time	Fees Applicable
1 Hour	Dh 2
2 Hours	Dh 5
3 Hours	Dh 8
5 Hours	Dh 12

Parking Subscription

Sharjah has introduced a new parking system. You can now buy a parking pass which lets you park in specific places for a set time. You can still pay for parking daily, but the pass is a more convenient option. There are primarily two kinds of subscriptions available:

Personal Subscriptions

All Areas Subscription: Allows subscribers to park in any public parking space in Sharjah. The parking fees are:

Duration	Fees Applicable
10 Days	Dh 170
20 Days	Dh 290
30 Days	Dh 390
3 Months	Dh 850
6 Months	Dh 1400
12 Months	Dh 2300

Two Areas Subscription: Allows you to park in two specific areas of your choice.

Duration	Fees Applicable
1 Month	Dh 166
3 Months	Dh 500
6 Months	Dh 900
12 Months	Dh 1700

Business Subscriptions

All Areas in Sharjah: This subscription plan is perfect for businesses requiring wide access to public parking throughout the city.

Duration	Fees Applicable
10 Days	Dh 170
20 Days	Dh 290
30 Days	Dh 390
3 Months	Dh 1050
6 Months	Dh 1750
12 Months	Dh 2850

Two Commercial Areas Subscription: This plan allows you to park in two specific commercial areas of Sharjah.

Duration	Fees Applicable
3 Months	Dh 600
6 Months	Dh 1100
12 Months	Dh 2100

Economic Benefits

Sharjah’s new parking rules are good for both residents and the city. Making people pay for longer parking can help the city earn more money. This money can be used to improve things like roads and schools. Even though people will pay more for parking, many think the benefits are worth it.

For example, it’s easier to find a parking spot, which saves time and reduces stress. Businesses also benefit because more people can visit them in the evenings and on weekends. This is similar to what other cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have done.

Residents Face Higher Parking Costs

As more people are moving to Sharjah, especially near Dubai there is a growing need for parking spaces. The increased demand has led to higher prices for private parking lots. People, who rely on private parking are now paying more for their parking spots.

For example, the cost of a private parking spot has increased from Dh 250 to Dh 300 per month. As private parking lot owners know that public parking is often full, they can charge higher prices. Though Sharjah is trying to make parking easier, it’s still important to know that private parking is getting more expensive.

Downsides of New Parking Rules

While Sharjah’s new parking rules aim to improve traffic and parking, there are some drawbacks as well. People who park for longer periods will pay more. Finding a parking spot during busy times might be harder, which could affect businesses.

While, some residents worry about higher parking costs, especially for those with lower incomes. There is also a concern that more people might park in popular areas, leading to traffic jams.

However, city officials are aware of these issues and are working on solutions like different pricing options or special permits for residents.

Conclusion

Overall, the new parking rules in Sharjah are a big change. While many people are happy with the longer parking hours, others have concerns about the cost and availability of parking spaces.

For UAE residents and visitors, it’s important to be aware of these changes and plan accordingly. Understanding the new rules avoiding parking fines and using the available parking options wisely can save most of your time. And you can have a more fun time exploring the city.

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