Certain individuals in Abu Dhabi have taken to offering unwanted parking assistance in exchange for money, residents have complained.

Such assistance is mostly offered at peak times when parking lots in downtown Abu Dhabi tend to be congested, and drivers say that it is quite a nuisance.

“The parking lot behind my office block tends to be especially congested around noon. It’s very difficult to find a place, and recently I’ve noticed that certain motorists take up available spots and wait for others to come along so they can earn some money,” M. Mohammad, an engineer from Sri Lanka, told Gulf News.

“When the driver of the parked vehicle notices someone else who wants to park and is in a hurry, they beckon them over and offer to move in exchange for some cash,” he explained.

While the amount is not specified, those trying to cash in by giving up a spot expect at least about Dh20.

Mohammad’s office is located in sector E11, which is bound by Zayed the First Street, Al Falah Street, Shaikh Zayed Street and Fatima Bint Mubarak Street. The block, though largely residential, also houses a number of office towers and government headquarters.

“Finding parking near my office is often a challenge, especially when one is in a hurry. These individuals are trying to take advantage of others, and it just makes the situation more difficult. Though I have encountered it, I have so far not had to resort to taking the offered spot. But I can see why many people would if they are pressed for time and perhaps late for a meeting,” Mohammad said.

Downtown Abu Dhabi has long suffered from a lack of sufficient parking. A mandatory paid parking system was introduced in late 2009 by the emirate’s urban regulator, the Department of Municipal Affairs and Transport (DMAT). In addition, parking structures have also been built in some locations. However, the shortage persists during peak hours, especially in localities that house many office buildings or retail outlets.

Another form of unwelcome parking assistance involves individuals who provide directions to drivers trying to park their vehicles.

Noha Saad, a 24-year-old medical interpreter from Egypt, said she has come across this practice both nearby malls and near her residence off Shaikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street.

“One time, I was looking for parking in front of Marina Mall at about 9 PM. This man came out of nowhere as if he was helping me to park my car. Even after I stepped out, the individual was standing nearby and obviously waiting for some money as a payment for his help, even though I did not ask for it,” Saad said.

A similar accident occurred when she was trying to park near her house after a long day at work. This time, Saad was directed to an empty parking spot and also given directions.

“It is really annoying because these men make you feel obligated to pay. Though they did not ask me for money outright, they stood around looking at me expectantly,” she said.

Residents added that authorities need to step in and prevent such practices that make them feel harassed.

A comment from the DMAT about the legality of offering unwanted parking assistance, and any applicable penalties, was not available by print deadline.