Abu Dhabi Launches Automated 'Free Flow' Parking System
Drivers in Abu Dhabi can now say goodbye to the hassle of physical parking tickets and payment machines, thanks to the new "Free Flow Paid Parking" system. Managed by Q Mobility under the guidance of the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), this innovative service utilizes artificial intelligence and license plate recognition to automate the entire process. Once a vehicle enters a participating facility, the system automatically begins a parking session and deducts the fee—priced at Dh2 per hour or a maximum of Dh15 for a full day—directly from the user's Darb wallet upon exit.
The system is currently operational in several key areas, including public multi-storey buildings on Abu Dhabi Island and specific commercial sectors within Mohamed Bin Zayed City. To ensure a seamless experience and avoid potential fines, motorists are encouraged to keep their Darb wallets sufficiently topped up. By eliminating the need for SMS payments or manual kiosks, this transition aims to significantly reduce traffic congestion and streamline the parking experience, further cementing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a hub for smart, sustainable, and inclusive urban infrastructure.