Are you driving to Dubai International’s bustling Terminal 1 and wondering where to park without breaking the bank? Whether you’re dropping off family, picking up colleagues, or jetting off on a trip yourself, Terminal 1 parking rates can be confusing with multiple options. This guide strips away the complexity. We’ll give you the exact, up-to-date prices for every lot, reveal a hidden free period almost everyone misses, and show you the definitive strategy to choose between short-term convenience and long-term savings. Stop overpaying—park smart at DXB’s busiest terminal.
Terminal 1 Parking: Know Your Lots
Before you see the rates, know your options. T1 has two main official parking types, and choosing the right one is the key to your budget.
- Short-Term Car Park (P1): The closest parking to the terminal. Direct, indoor, air-conditioned access.
- Long-Term Car Park (LT): The most economical option for trips. Located further away, served by frequent free shuttles.
Crucial: The “Long-Term” car park is still very close compared to most global airports. Don’t let the name fool you—it’s the smart choice for most travelers.
Terminal 1 Parking Rates 2025: The Exact Price Table
Here is the official, current pricing structure. Bookmark this.
Short-Term Car Park (P1) – For Convenience
| Duration | Cost (AED) | Best For… |
|---|---|---|
| First 15 Minutes | FREE | Lightning-fast pickups. Your passenger must be ready at the curb. |
| First 2 Hours | 25 | Standard wait for arrivals (if flight has just landed). |
| Each Additional Hour | 15 | The cost escalates quickly here. |
| Daily Maximum (24 hours) | 200 | Never use this for an overnight or multi-day trip. |
→ Walking Time to T1 Check-in: 2-4 minutes via covered sky bridge.
Long-Term Car Park (LT) – For Value
| Duration | Cost (AED) | Best For… |
|---|---|---|
| First 2 Hours | 25 | Same as short-term. |
| 3 to 5 Hours | 40 | Already cheaper than short-term. |
| 6 to 12 Hours | 50 | Significant savings for a half-day. |
| 24 Hours | 70 | This is the magic number. Compare to AED 200 in short-term. |
| Each Additional Day | 50 | For a 3-day trip: AED 170 total. In short-term, it would be AED 600. |
→ Access to T1: Frequent, free shuttle buses run 24/7. The journey takes 5-7 minutes. Look for the clearly marked “Long Term Car Park Shuttle” signs at the terminal curb.
The T1 Parking Strategy: A Simple Decision Flowchart
Follow this to make the perfect choice every time.
- Are you ONLY doing a quick drop-off or picking up someone who is READY at arrivals?
- YES → Use the FREE first 15 minutes in the Short-Term (P1) car park. Pro Tip: Call your passenger before you enter. If they are at the curb, you can do the entire pickup for free.
- NO → Go to question 2.
- Are you waiting for an arriving passenger (flight just landed)?
- YES → Use Short-Term (P1). Pay for 2 hours (AED 25). Use a flight tracker to time your entry.
- Are you traveling away for 1 night or more?
- YES → Use Long-Term (LT) Parking. This is non-negotiable for savings. The shuttle is efficient.
- Do you have massive luggage, small kids, or value absolute door-to-door ease?
- YES → You can use Short-Term (P1) for a premium, or consider the Valet service (if available—check DXB website for latest offering).
How to Pay at Terminal 1 Parking
The system is fully automated and cashless.
- Keep your entry ticket safe.
- Pay at the pre-pay machines located near the elevators in the parking area before returning to your car. Use a card.
- Or, pay directly at the exit barrier with your card.
- Lost your ticket? This incurs a “lost ticket fee,” typically the maximum daily rate for several days. Avoid this at all costs.
5 Must-Know Rules to Avoid Fines at T1
- The Arrivals Curbside Lane is NOT a Waiting Zone. It is for active loading only. If your passenger isn’t there, you must park. Cameras enforce this, and fines start at AED 200. This is the #1 mistake.
- The “First 15 Minutes Free” is Your Best Friend. Use it strategically for efficient pickups.
- Long-Term Shuttles are Easy. Don’t be intimidated. Follow signs from baggage claim. Buses run constantly.
- Note Your Parking Spot. The P1 and LT lots are huge. Take a photo of your level and row number (e.g., “P1, Level 3, Row D”).
- No Friday Freebies. Unlike public street parking, airport parking is charged 24/7, including Fridays and holidays.
FAQs: Terminal 1 Parking Questions Answered
Q1: Is there any completely free all-day parking at Terminal 1?
No. The only free period is the first 15 minutes in the Short-Term (P1) car park. All other parking incurs charges.
Q2: How long does the Long-Term shuttle take?
The ride is about 5-7 minutes. Buses are air-conditioned and depart every 10-15 minutes 24 hours a day.
Q3: What if my flight is delayed and I overstay my paid time?
You will be charged for the additional time based on the rate card. For long-term parking, you’ll simply pay the next incremental rate (e.g., if you’re into the next 24-hour period, you pay an extra AED 70).
Q4: Is the Long-Term car park safe for my car for a week?
Yes. It is a secured, fenced, and well-lit area within the airport’s operational boundary with regular security patrols. It is very safe for extended stays.
Q5: Can I pre-book or get a monthly pass for T1 parking?
For general public use, it’s typically pay-as-you-exit. For frequent travelers or corporate clients, Dubai Airports may offer business products. Check the official Dubai Airports website for the latest on pre-booking or subscription services.
Final Verdict: The Smart Parker’s Choice
For Terminal 1 parking rates, the rule is simple:
- Under 4-5 hours and value time? Short-Term (P1) is worth the premium.
- Over 5 hours or traveling overnight? Long-Term (LT) is the only financially sane choice, offering massive savings with minimal hassle.
By understanding these two options and using the free 15-minute window wisely, you’ll master T1 parking. Drive up with confidence, park with strategy, and keep your travel budget firmly on the ground.
