SM expands smart parking with 2,421 spaces

Al Qayed stated that expanding and regulating public parking facilities remains a top municipal priority, implemented in coordination with municipalities across Sharjah. The initiative aligns with annual development plans to enhance public services in response to urban expansion, population growth, and rising tourism activity, while ensuring customer satisfaction.

AI-powered 24/7 parking system

He explained that smart parking lots operate differently from standard paid public car parks, as they operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with no free periods to guarantee continuous availability for residents and visitors.

The smart lots are equipped with dedicated signage and advanced cameras at entry and exit points that automatically read vehicle number plates and calculate parking fees. They also offer short-term parking and long-term subscription options.

Currently, the 10 operational smart lots provide 2,421 managed parking spaces via artificial intelligence systems. Work is underway to equip six additional lots, adding 1,457 parking spaces and further enhancing service capacity.

Payment through Digital Sharjah app

Al Qayed clarified that smart parking fees are paid exclusively through the “Digital Sharjah” app, unlike traditional paid parking, which allows SMS payments. The system offers flexible durations from one to five hours, as well as daily, weekly, monthly, and annual subscriptions tailored to each smart lot.

Upon entry, cameras automatically scan and record vehicle details. When exiting, the system calculates the parking duration and sends a notification via the app with the applicable fee. To complete payment, vehicle registration in the parking system via the app is required.

Al Qayed emphasised that smart parking lots offer an innovative solution to rising demand, particularly in tourist and commercial areas, noting that the municipality continuously monitors parking needs through field assessments, annual planning, and public feedback.