The AI-powered public parking lot in Sharjah. SHARJAH CITY MUNICIPALITY

Sharjah City Municipality has taken a significant step towards modernizing its infrastructure by introducing two public parking facilities powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). The new smart parking lots are located in Al Khan and Al Nad within the Al Qasimia area, designed to cater to the growing urban, population, and tourism demands in the emirate. According to Khalid Bin Falah Al Suwaidi, Director of Customer Service at Sharjah City Municipality, this initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand smart parking areas across Sharjah. “Smart inspection and artificial intelligence are integral to the operation of the public parking service,” Al Suwaidi said, adding that these technologies are key components of the municipality's plans to enhance services for residents and visitors. The municipality revealed that several other areas in the city are being prepared for the rollout of AI-powered parking systems. These parking lots aim to provide organized and efficient solutions to parking challenges, ensuring compliance with regulations and enhancing user convenience.

How the AI-powered parking system works

Hamed Al Qaed, Director of the Public Parking Department, explained that the parking facilities feature advanced technologies, including smart inspection and digital payment systems. Vehicles entering the lots are automatically scanned by smart cameras at designated entrances, recording their license plates. Upon exit, the system calculates the parking duration, notifying the vehicle owner through the "Mawaqif" smart application. “The advanced mechanism not only saves time but also ensures a seamless experience for users,” Al Qaed said. The "Mawaqif" app, available on major app stores, allows users to subscribe to parking services for durations ranging from one hour to a full year, offering flexibility and ease of use. The two parking facilities collectively offer 392 spaces, with options for short-term parking and seasonal subscriptions. These spaces are expected to alleviate parking congestion, particularly in tourist and commercial areas. Al Qaed emphasized the importance of addressing the increasing demand for public parking, noting that continuous monitoring and adjustments are part of the municipality's long-term strategy. “This initiative supports our efforts to save time and effort while providing services digitally. The smart parking areas are part of our commitment to optimizing public infrastructure,” Al Qaed said. The initiative is expected to serve as a model for future urban development projects in the region. ICA/Expat Media
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