The parking system in Dubai is highly efficient and plays a crucial role in managing the city’s traffic flow. This guide covers everything you need to know about parking zones, payment methods, and fines in Dubai.
Parking Zones and Types of Parking in Dubai
Finding a good parking space in Dubai can be challenging. The city has different parking zones, each with specific tariffs and timings.
Parking Zones
Dubai is divided into multiple parking zones with specific tariffs and timings. Here’s a table summarizing the key details for each zone:
| Zone | Type | Tariff | Timing | Ramadan Timings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Commercial | AED 2 (0.5 hr), AED 4 (1 hr), AED 8 (2 hrs), AED 16 (4 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
| B | Commercial | AED 3 (1 hr), AED 6 (2 hrs), AED 20 (24 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
| C | Non-commercial | AED 2 (1 hr), AED 5 (2 hrs), AED 11 (4 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
| D | Non-commercial | AED 2 (1 hr), AED 10 (24 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
| E | Special Areas | AED 4 (1 hr), AED 16 (4 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 11:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
| F | Tecom Areas | AED 2 (1 hr), AED 11 (4 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 6:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| G | Downtown | AED 4 (1 hr), AED 16 (4 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm |
| H | Silicon Oasis | AED 2 (0.5 hr), AED 16 (4 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
| I | JLT Prime | AED 10 (1 hr), AED 40 (4 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
| J | JLT Short Stay | AED 2 (0.5 hr), AED 22 (4 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
| K | Short Stay | AED 2 (0.5 hr), AED 32 (24 hrs) | Mon-Sat, 8:00 am – 10:00 pm | 8:00 am – 6:00 pm, 8:00 pm – 12:00 am |
Parking Area Categories
Dubai parking areas are categorized into two types:
- Category One: Includes zones A and B (e.g., Deira, Bur Dubai, Jumeirah).
- Category Two: Covers all other zones not in Category One.
How to Pay Parking Charges in Dubai
Paying for parking in Dubai is straightforward with multiple methods available:
Payment Methods
- mParking: Pay via SMS by sending a message to 7275 (PARK) in the format:
number plate-space-area code-number of hours. - RTA Dubai or Dubai Drive App: Register your vehicle and follow the app instructions to pay.
- Paid Parking Machines: Use coins to buy parking tickets and display them on your dashboard.
- Prepaid Cards: Available in AED 30, AED 50, and AED 100 denominations.
- Seasonal Parking Cards: Valid for three months, six months, or a year for selected parking lots.
- Nol Card: Use your Nol card to pay for parking.
- RFID Bank Cards: Pay with RFID-enabled bank cards by tapping at the payment device.
- NFC on Smartphones: Use NFC technology on your phone to make payments.
- WhatsApp: Send a message to RTA’s chatbot Mahboub at 971588009090 in the format:
[Plate Number] [Space][Zone Number] [Space][Duration].
Parking Fines in Dubai
Here are the common parking fines in Dubai:
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Unpaid parking or invisible ticket | AED 150 |
| Overstaying the parking time | AED 100 |
| Exceeding maximum parking hours | AED 100 |
| Obstructing or misusing parking facility | AED 200 |
| Parking on sidewalks | AED 200 |
| Forbidden parking | AED 200 |
| No number plate | AED 1,000 |
| Unauthorized use of special needs parking | AED 1,000 |
| Parking in reserved spots without a permit | AED 1,000 |
| Damaging parking equipment | AED 1,000 |
| Unauthorized parking umbrellas | AED 1,000 |
FAQs About Car Parking in Dubai
1. Is parking free on Fridays in Dubai?
No, parking is not free on Fridays. Paid parking is enforced from Monday to Saturday, and parking is free on Sundays and public holidays.
2. How can I find out which parking zone I am in?
You can identify your parking zone by looking for the orange-colored paid parking signs in each area. These signs display the zone number and relevant parking information.
3. How can I pay for parking via WhatsApp?
To pay via WhatsApp, send a message to RTA’s Chatbot at +971 588 009 090 in the format: [Plate Number] [Space] [Zone Number] [Space] [Duration]. This method saves you from the additional 30 fils charge applied to SMS payments.
4. Are there any areas exempt from parking fees?
Yes, the Al Khail Gate area is currently exempt from parking fees. Additionally, parking is free during Iftar hours in Ramadan and on public holidays.
5. Can I use my Nol card for parking payments?
Yes, Nol card users can pay for parking by tapping their card at designated payment devices.
6. What should I do if I receive a parking fine?
You can pay parking fines through the RTA website, mobile apps, or at designated payment kiosks. It’s important to settle fines promptly to avoid additional penalties.
7. How can I appeal a parking fine?
To appeal a parking fine, you can submit your request through the RTA website or visit an RTA customer service center. Provide all relevant details and documentation to support your appeal.
8. Are there any special parking provisions for people with disabilities?
Yes, there are designated parking spaces for people with disabilities. Unauthorized use of these spaces or expired permits may result in a fine.
Information is gathered from the Official RTA Website, and Dubizzle.
