Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company ADQ has launched Q Mobility to operate both the toll gate system (Darb) and the parking system (Mawaqif) in the Capital. Darb, launched in 2021, manages eight toll gates in Abu Dhabi, while Mawaqif, established in 2009, provides structured public parking facilities. The Mawaqif system is fully digitalized, allowing for mobile phone payments and integration with the Darb smart application. The operations of the toll gates and parking systems will remain unaffected by this transition, according to Abu Dhabi Mobility.
Under the supervision of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, Q Mobility will provide smart and sustainable transport solutions in Abu Dhabi. Part of ADQ’s transportation and logistics portfolio, the company will work with the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) to enhance customer experience and ensure service continuity. This strategic move aims to strengthen partnerships with leading companies, improve the transportation system, and develop the sector in Abu Dhabi. In addition, expanding the portfolio with Darb and Mawaqif is expected to be an attractive proposition for commuters and generate significant synergies for sustainable financial returns.
Parking fees in Abu Dhabi are structured under the Mawaqif system, where all public parking zones are paid from 8 am to 12 am, with free parking on Sundays and public holidays. The two types of zones in Abu Dhabi include Premium (White and Blue) at Dh3 per hour with a maximum parking time of 4 hours, and Standard (Black and Blue) at Dh2 per hour or Dh15 per 24 hours with a maximum parking time of 24 hours. Residents’ parking spaces are part of the standard parking spaces located in residential areas and are marked with a blue line or ‘Resident Permit Only’ Mawaqif signage, enforced from 9 pm to 8 am.
For residents’ permits, UAE nationals residing in apartments receive free permits for up to four vehicles, while UAE nationals in villas also receive free permits. Non-UAE nationals are charged Dh800 for the first vehicle and Dh1,200 for the second vehicle. In multi-storey parking spaces in the emirate, the tariff applies at Dh21 for 1 hour, Dh15 for 1 day, Dh136 for 3 months, Dh273 for 6 months, and Dh547 for 12 months. These fees and regulations aim to streamline parking and ensure efficient usage of parking spaces in Abu Dhabi.
Mansour AlMulla, Deputy Group CEO of ADQ, stated that expanding the portfolio with Darb and Mawaqif will improve urban mobility, facilitating the seamless movement of people and goods in Abu Dhabi. The integration of these systems with other assets in the transport and logistics sector will contribute to the evolution of a smart, safe, and sustainable transport network. The strategic partnership between ADQ and the Department of Municipalities and Transport aims to enhance transportation services, strengthen existing assets, and promote the use of environmentally friendly transport options in Abu Dhabi.
In conclusion, Abu Dhabi’s adoption of Q Mobility to manage the toll gate system and parking facilities demonstrates a commitment to innovation and efficiency in the transportation sector. By leveraging digital technologies and strategic partnerships, the city aims to enhance customer experience, improve transportation services, and encourage the use of sustainable transport solutions. The integration of Darb and Mawaqif under ADQ’s transportation and logistics portfolio signifies a step towards building a smart and eco-friendly transport network in Abu Dhabi, aligning with the city’s vision for a modern and efficient urban environment.
