Frustrations are building up due to parking problems in Abu Dhabi. The problem has persisted despite the government’s introduction of a management programme “Mawaqif”, which operates all the parking spaces in the UAE.
Mawaqif managed parking spaces are subject to parking fees which can be managed through Pay and Display tickets from machines placed at strategic locations in the parking sectors. These in turn are monitored by Parking Inspectors who are available to provide guidelines and regulations of parking usage to motorists.
However, a year after the introduction of the programme residents are still complaining about overcrowding of parking spaces due to recent construction projects, which do not have adequate parking lots of their own. Motorists have also brought to attention the need of greater visibility for parking metres.
There seems to be a need for clearly marked signals and indicators as to where the parking fees are to be paid. The parking problems in Abu Dhabi have become enough of an irritant for some motorists to resort to public transport even though this may not be suitable for them considering the additional commute time.