Car parking in Dubai - A Comprehensive Guide
Dubai has always been a vibrant, modern city packed with attractions, stunning infrastructure, events, and activities; and amidst this city buzz, finding a place to park your car can be a difficult task. With the city’s infrastructure constantly evolving, it gets difficult to know where to go and what the rules are when it comes to car parking in Dubai. Parking spaces can be hard to come by, especially during peak times. To help you navigate the parking system in Dubai, CARS24 has created this comprehensive guide to give you the information you need to find a spot and know what to expect when it comes to parking fees and payment methods.
Parking systems in Dubai
Dubai has a well-developed parking system that caters to the needs of both residents and tourists. The city has implemented various parking regulations and initiatives to address the issues of the right parking spots. Dubai follows a systematic parking policy. Designated areas in Dubai are divided into different parking zones, each with a specific parking fee. The parking fees are determined by the location and the duration of the parking spot.
Read More : Best Budget Cars Under 50,000 AED
TYPES OF PARKING ZONES IN DUBAI
The parking zones in Dubai are divided into three categories, consisting of a total of 11 zones labelled A to K. The availability of these zones depends on the area, as they are not uniformly distributed across the city. Each zone has specific parking regulations and fees that drivers need to be aware of while parking their vehicles.
The car parking zones are categorized into three main types: commercial, non-commercial, and special areas.
- Commercial: Commercial parking is located in areas where there are high commercial activities, such as business districts, shopping centers, and commercial buildings. These zones have higher parking fees and shorter parking durations to maintain the availability of the parking spot for customers and visitors.
- Non-commercial: Non-commercial zones also known as residential zones are located in residential areas, where the parking fees are relatively lower, and the parking duration is longer. These zones are intended for residents and their visitors.
- Special: Special parking is designated for specific purposes, such as loading and unloading zones, disabled parking, and VIP parking. These zones have their specific rules and regulations, and parking in these zones is only allowed for the intended purpose.
There are 11 kinds of zones they are divided by the areas with different charges
Read More : 6 USEFUL TIPS TO DRIVE DURING A DUST STORMS IN THE UAE
Ramadan Timing: 8:00 am to 6 pm and 8:00 pm to 12:00 am
How to pay car parking charges in Dubai
The car parking payment system in Dubai is relatively straightforward, and there are several ways to pay for parking, including:
- Dubai Car Parking SMS payment: Drivers can also pay for parking by sending an SMS to the designated number (7275) with the parking zone and duration information. The payment is charged to the driver's mobile phone bill where the amount is easily deducted as per your parking charges.
SMS Format: (Vehicle no)space(Area code-zone)space(Duration).
- Prepaid cards: You can reload your pre-paid card and use it to pay off the parking charges. Just insert the card into the machine and the fee will get auto-deducted.
- Nolcard: Parking meters are widely available throughout the city, and drivers can pay for parking through prepaid parking cards which are also used in buses and the metro. The same card you can punch and get your parking ticket according to the parking fee depending on the parking zone, duration, and time of day.
- RTA Dubai app: RTA (Road and Transport Authority) Download the RTA Dubai app or Dubai drive app on your mobile where you can easily register your vehicle and pay. It also, allows users to find available parking spaces, pay for car parking, and manage their parking history. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices, and users can pay for parking using their credit or debit card.
- WhatsApp: To pay for parking in Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) provides a convenient WhatsApp service where drivers can easily pay for parking by sending a message to RTA's chatbot 'Mahboub' on WhatsApp at the number +97158 8009090. It enables users to pay parking fees, receive parking details, and even top-up their accounts using WhatsApp.
If you pay via WhatsApp, you will save 30 fils on the SMS parking payment.
WhatsApp Format: (Vehicle no)space(Area code-zone)space(Duration)
Make sure to follow the Police violations laws in Dubai while driving.
Dubai Police have installed 700 radars so that they can spot each car from every corner of Dubai. So, think twice before overspeeding, taking an illegal U-turn, driving the wrong way, or crossing a red signal, this action can cause you heavy fines.
Read More : Tips to keep your parked car cool in the UAE heat
Some Common Fines in Dubai Parking System:
You definitely have to bear the parking fines, in case of violation of the rules:
Parking spaces for people of determination
Dubai is amongst the most accessible cities in the world with social development. The UAE government has given people an opportunity and various facilities to the people with disabilities to be independent. Dubai is one of the cities with the tallest buildings and biggest malls. In Dubai, parking areas for people of determination are available in most public places, including Dubai shopping malls, hospitals, government buildings, and almost every other area, these parking spaces are usually located close to the entrance and are marked with the international symbol of accessibility. To use these spaces, the person of determination must display a valid Dubai disability parking permit, which is issued by the Dubai RTA sectors. The permit allows the holder to park in designated disabled parking spaces free of charge. If you are parking illegally in a disabled parking space without a valid permit you can result in fines or the vehicle being towed directly.
Read More : GUIDE TO SELL ANY USED CAR IN DUBAI
Public Transport in Dubai
Owning a car is a lifestyle choice. But if you are one of those who prefer public transport over personal vehicles, Dubai offers several modes of public transportation.
Dubai metro is the major lifeline of public transport in Dubai it connects every corner of cities and provides the easiest way to transport. Dubai's public transport system is divided into seven zones, and the fare for each journey is based on the zones. You need to have a Nol card which means a Fare card for traveling on any public transport like Bus, Metro, Tram, Waterbus, and Taxi.
Whether you are a resident or a visitor if you are looking for free parking, paid parking, or special parking zones, there are a variety of options available in Dubai. And with the help of the RTA’s mParking system, finding and reserving a parking spot has never been easier.
The parking system in Dubai can be confusing and difficult to navigate, but with the right information and some patience, you can find a spot to park your car. Make sure to look for signs, utilize parking apps, and ask for help if you need it. And, if you are staying for a while, consider getting a monthly pass to save money on parking fees. We hope this comprehensive guide to car parking in Dubai has been helpful. With a bit of planning and research, finding a parking spot in Dubai doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.
Long-Term Parking Option
If you are seeking long-term parking options in Dubai for almost a month to 6months, you need to opt for a seasonal permit card. A Seasonal Permit card allows you to station your vehicle as per the tenure you select for a month, 2 months, 3 months, or even 6 months to a year. With a seasonal permit card, you can park in public zones A, B, C, and D. The fees vary as per the parking slot and tenure.
For a General Permit in Zone A, B, C, and D
It begins from AED500 for a month
AED 1400 for 3 months
AED 2500 for 6 months
AED 4500 for a year
For a Plot Permit in Zone B, and D
It begins from AED 250 for a month
AED 700 for 3 months
AED 1300 for 6 months
AED 2400 for a year
You can apply for a Seasonal Parking card through the RTA link: https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/driver-and-carowner/parking/SeasonalParkingCard?lang=en
FAQs
How to pay for car parking by phone?
To pay for the car parking from your phone you can easily just SMS your parking information on this no “7275” Once you send the parking details you will receive a confirmation message on the same number, where you can easily pay.
SMS Format: (Vehicle no)space(Area code-zone)space(Duration).
What are the rules for parking in Dubai?
Dubai is divided into 11 different parking zones from A to K, each with different parking fees and time limits. Make sure to check the signage in the area you're parking in to avoid any fines also, there are designated parking spots where parking is not allowed such as emergency lanes and for people with disabilities, marked with blue and white signs. Make sure not to park in these spots without a valid disabled parking permit.
Where can I find parking in Dubai, and what are the options for long-term parking?
Dubai has parking zones divided as per the area. We have listed all the parking zones from A to K so that you can find a relevant spot for yourself. Dubai also facilitates long-term parking to help you plan your travels accordingly. Dubai International Terminal 1 and 2 offer parking spaces for long-term usage. Also, you may find options for long-term parking in many of the well-known hotels in Dubai where they have a huge car parking basement allotted for long-term parking facilities.
Dubai has always been a vibrant, modern city packed with attractions, stunning infrastructure, events, and activities; and amidst this city buzz, finding a place to park your car can be a difficult task. With the city’s infrastructure constantly evolving, it gets difficult to know where to go and what the rules are when it comes to car parking in Dubai. Parking spaces can be hard to come by, especially during peak times. To help you navigate the parking system in Dubai, CARS24 has created this comprehensive guide to give you the information you need to find a spot and know what to expect when it comes to parking fees and payment methods.
Parking systems in Dubai
Dubai has a well-developed parking system that caters to the needs of both residents and tourists. The city has implemented various parking regulations and initiatives to address the issues of the right parking spots. Dubai follows a systematic parking policy. Designated areas in Dubai are divided into different parking zones, each with a specific parking fee. The parking fees are determined by the location and the duration of the parking spot.
Read More : Best Budget Cars Under 50,000 AED
TYPES OF PARKING ZONES IN DUBAI
The parking zones in Dubai are divided into three categories, consisting of a total of 11 zones labelled A to K. The availability of these zones depends on the area, as they are not uniformly distributed across the city. Each zone has specific parking regulations and fees that drivers need to be aware of while parking their vehicles.
The car parking zones are categorized into three main types: commercial, non-commercial, and special areas.
- Commercial: Commercial parking is located in areas where there are high commercial activities, such as business districts, shopping centers, and commercial buildings. These zones have higher parking fees and shorter parking durations to maintain the availability of the parking spot for customers and visitors.
- Non-commercial: Non-commercial zones also known as residential zones are located in residential areas, where the parking fees are relatively lower, and the parking duration is longer. These zones are intended for residents and their visitors.
- Special: Special parking is designated for specific purposes, such as loading and unloading zones, disabled parking, and VIP parking. These zones have their specific rules and regulations, and parking in these zones is only allowed for the intended purpose.
There are 11 kinds of zones they are divided by the areas with different charges
Read More : 6 USEFUL TIPS TO DRIVE DURING A DUST STORMS IN THE UAE
Ramadan Timing: 8:00 am to 6 pm and 8:00 pm to 12:00 am
How to pay car parking charges in Dubai
The car parking payment system in Dubai is relatively straightforward, and there are several ways to pay for parking, including:
- Dubai Car Parking SMS payment: Drivers can also pay for parking by sending an SMS to the designated number (7275) with the parking zone and duration information. The payment is charged to the driver's mobile phone bill where the amount is easily deducted as per your parking charges.
SMS Format: (Vehicle no)space(Area code-zone)space(Duration).
- Prepaid cards: You can reload your pre-paid card and use it to pay off the parking charges. Just insert the card into the machine and the fee will get auto-deducted.
- Nolcard: Parking meters are widely available throughout the city, and drivers can pay for parking through prepaid parking cards which are also used in buses and the metro. The same card you can punch and get your parking ticket according to the parking fee depending on the parking zone, duration, and time of day.
- RTA Dubai app: RTA (Road and Transport Authority) Download the RTA Dubai app or Dubai drive app on your mobile where you can easily register your vehicle and pay. It also, allows users to find available parking spaces, pay for car parking, and manage their parking history. The app is available for both Android and iOS devices, and users can pay for parking using their credit or debit card.
- WhatsApp: To pay for parking in Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) provides a convenient WhatsApp service where drivers can easily pay for parking by sending a message to RTA's chatbot 'Mahboub' on WhatsApp at the number +97158 8009090. It enables users to pay parking fees, receive parking details, and even top-up their accounts using WhatsApp.
If you pay via WhatsApp, you will save 30 fils on the SMS parking payment.
WhatsApp Format: (Vehicle no)space(Area code-zone)space(Duration)
Make sure to follow the Police violations laws in Dubai while driving.
Dubai Police have installed 700 radars so that they can spot each car from every corner of Dubai. So, think twice before overspeeding, taking an illegal U-turn, driving the wrong way, or crossing a red signal, this action can cause you heavy fines.
Read More : Tips to keep your parked car cool in the UAE heat
Some Common Fines in Dubai Parking System:
You definitely have to bear the parking fines, in case of violation of the rules:
Parking spaces for people of determination
Dubai is amongst the most accessible cities in the world with social development. The UAE government has given people an opportunity and various facilities to the people with disabilities to be independent. Dubai is one of the cities with the tallest buildings and biggest malls. In Dubai, parking areas for people of determination are available in most public places, including Dubai shopping malls, hospitals, government buildings, and almost every other area, these parking spaces are usually located close to the entrance and are marked with the international symbol of accessibility. To use these spaces, the person of determination must display a valid Dubai disability parking permit, which is issued by the Dubai RTA sectors. The permit allows the holder to park in designated disabled parking spaces free of charge. If you are parking illegally in a disabled parking space without a valid permit you can result in fines or the vehicle being towed directly.
Read More : GUIDE TO SELL ANY USED CAR IN DUBAI
Public Transport in Dubai
Owning a car is a lifestyle choice. But if you are one of those who prefer public transport over personal vehicles, Dubai offers several modes of public transportation.
Dubai metro is the major lifeline of public transport in Dubai it connects every corner of cities and provides the easiest way to transport. Dubai's public transport system is divided into seven zones, and the fare for each journey is based on the zones. You need to have a Nol card which means a Fare card for traveling on any public transport like Bus, Metro, Tram, Waterbus, and Taxi.
Whether you are a resident or a visitor if you are looking for free parking, paid parking, or special parking zones, there are a variety of options available in Dubai. And with the help of the RTA’s mParking system, finding and reserving a parking spot has never been easier.
The parking system in Dubai can be confusing and difficult to navigate, but with the right information and some patience, you can find a spot to park your car. Make sure to look for signs, utilize parking apps, and ask for help if you need it. And, if you are staying for a while, consider getting a monthly pass to save money on parking fees. We hope this comprehensive guide to car parking in Dubai has been helpful. With a bit of planning and research, finding a parking spot in Dubai doesn’t have to be a stressful experience.
Long-Term Parking Option
If you are seeking long-term parking options in Dubai for almost a month to 6months, you need to opt for a seasonal permit card. A Seasonal Permit card allows you to station your vehicle as per the tenure you select for a month, 2 months, 3 months, or even 6 months to a year. With a seasonal permit card, you can park in public zones A, B, C, and D. The fees vary as per the parking slot and tenure.
For a General Permit in Zone A, B, C, and D
It begins from AED500 for a month
AED 1400 for 3 months
AED 2500 for 6 months
AED 4500 for a year
For a Plot Permit in Zone B, and D
It begins from AED 250 for a month
AED 700 for 3 months
AED 1300 for 6 months
AED 2400 for a year
You can apply for a Seasonal Parking card through the RTA link: https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/driver-and-carowner/parking/SeasonalParkingCard?lang=en
FAQs
How to pay for car parking by phone?
To pay for the car parking from your phone you can easily just SMS your parking information on this no “7275” Once you send the parking details you will receive a confirmation message on the same number, where you can easily pay.
SMS Format: (Vehicle no)space(Area code-zone)space(Duration).
What are the rules for parking in Dubai?
Dubai is divided into 11 different parking zones from A to K, each with different parking fees and time limits. Make sure to check the signage in the area you're parking in to avoid any fines also, there are designated parking spots where parking is not allowed such as emergency lanes and for people with disabilities, marked with blue and white signs. Make sure not to park in these spots without a valid disabled parking permit.
Where can I find parking in Dubai, and what are the options for long-term parking?
Dubai has parking zones divided as per the area. We have listed all the parking zones from A to K so that you can find a relevant spot for yourself. Dubai also facilitates long-term parking to help you plan your travels accordingly. Dubai International Terminal 1 and 2 offer parking spaces for long-term usage. Also, you may find options for long-term parking in many of the well-known hotels in Dubai where they have a huge car parking basement allotted for long-term parking facilities.
