Dubai International Airport Launches Fully Digital, Ticketless Parking with Salik E-Wallet
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is transforming the passenger experience by introducing a fully ticketless, cashless parking system across all its terminals. Starting January 22, 2026, drivers can enjoy a seamless entry and exit process, with payments automatically deducted via the Salik e-wallet, eliminating paper tickets and payment kiosks.
A 10-Year Partnership for a Digital Upgrade
This major initiative is part of a 10-year partnership between Dubai Airports and Salik Company PJSC, Dubai’s road toll operator. The system will cover approximately 7,400 parking spaces across Terminals 1, 2, 3, and the Cargo Mega Terminal, leveraging Salik’s established digital payment ecosystem used by millions in the UAE.
How the Seamless System Works
The process is designed for maximum convenience:
Ticketless Entry: Upon entry, cameras capture your vehicle’s license plate. No need to take a paper ticket.
Automatic Payment: When exiting, the parking fee is automatically charged to your linked Salik e-wallet account.
Efficient Exit: No stopping at payment machines—just drive out, reducing queues and improving traffic flow around the terminals.
With over 4.7 million vehicles already linked to Salik, the transition will be intuitive for most drivers. Alternative payment methods will remain available for those without an account.
Aligning with Dubai’s Smart City Vision
Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, emphasized that parking is a critical first and last touchpoint for travelers. This digitization is a key part of DXB’s strategy to enhance the overall journey and support Dubai’s broader Smart City and Smart Mobility ambitions.
The move follows Salik’s expansion into automatic parking solutions across the city, using similar license-plate recognition technology to reduce congestion and administrative overhead.
Tangible Benefits for Travelers
The new system offers clear advantages:
No lost tickets or fumbling for cash/cards.
Faster exits, especially during peak hours.
A predictable, automated payment process for frequent users.
This upgrade complements DXB’s other digital initiatives, like mobile check-in and QR-based pickup services, creating a more integrated and passenger-centric travel ecosystem.
Also Read: Dubai Deploys AI Cameras to Catch Littering, Issues Fines Up to Dh500
Setting a Global Precedent
The rollout at DXB sets a new benchmark for automated, ticketless parking at major global transport hubs. It demonstrates how effective public-private partnerships can drive innovation that simplifies daily life for millions, making travel more efficient and aligned with a digital future.
