Muscat – The new paid parking lots in Ruwi, Al Khuwayr and Al Khoudh, which were suppose to start operations on Sunday have been suspended by Muscat Municipality until further notice.

A statement issued by Muscat Municipality said, ‘Muscat Municipality has suspended the decision to start parking meters in some locations in Muscat which were to start on March 6.’

The areas include Al Khoudh Market area behind the Ooredoo store, the area around Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Ruwi and Sultan Qaboos Street in southern Al Khuwayr and opposite commercial buildings.

Muscat Municipality added that these areas will have free parking until further notice.

Meanwhile, paid parking will be applicable in other areas daily from 8am to 1pm and from 4pm to 9pm, except Fridays, Saturdays and public holidays announced by the authorities.

Those who wish to reserve a parking slot can do so by sending an SMS to 90091 containing the car number, alphabetical code, and the time period required (in multiples of 30 minutes, to a maximum of 300 minutes). This can be extended following the same steps.

Users also have the option of reserving parking though the Baladiyeti app or via Muscat Municipality’s website http://www.mm.gov.om/ to obtain, renew a parking permit or inquire about/pay fines.