Madinat Jumeirah now charges for parking, after 10 years of no fees

The traditional Arabian souq, known for its souvenir shops, luxury brands, restaurants and theatre, said it will charge visitors Dh10 for the second hour and Dh5 for every subsequent hour.

It now costs motorists Dh10 for the second hour and Dh5 for every subsequent hour to park at the souq at Madinat Jumeirah. Jaime Puebla / The National

DUBAI // After nearly 10 years of free parking, the souq at Madinat Jumeirah is now charging visitors who leave their vehicles for more than an hour.

The traditional Arabian souq, known for its souvenir shops, luxury brands, restaurants and theatre, is charging visitors Dh10 for the second hour and Dh5 for every subsequent hour.

The parking charges came into effect last month. The first three hours are free when dining in some restaurants and using the valet parking service.

“Parking has long been a challenge at the souq and after extensive research it was recognised that paid parking would ensure appropriate use of the parking space, allowing visitors a better chance of parking,” said a spokesman for parent company Jumeirah Group.

“In addition to offering the first hour for free and a small charge for subsequent periods, we have introduced a valet parking service to further enhance the experience of visiting the souq.

“The primary aim of the new system is to reduce congestion in the parking area and improve the overall visitor experience. The feedback from visitors so far has been overwhelmingly positive.”

There are 476 underground spaces.