How Pay For Parking in Dubai

2023/03/08

Dubai is a bustling metropolis with a rapidly growing population and an ever-increasing number of vehicles on the roads. As a result, finding a parking spot can be challenging, and paying for it can sometimes seem like a hassle.

Quick navigation

  1. What is mParking?
  2. How to pay for car parking by SMS in Dubai
  3. Pay for parking in Dubai VIA WhatsApp
  4. Other ways to pay the parking free
  5. RTA Dubai or Dubai Drive Application
  6. Coins
  7. NOL Card
  8. Prepaid cards
  9. FAQs

Despite that, the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has implemented a variety of convenient payment options for parking, including mobile payments through SMS and WhatsApp. Also, there are more traditional methods like coins and prepaid cards.

In this guide, we'll explore the various ways you can pay for parking in Dubai and provide some tips to help make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible. So whether you're a seasoned resident or a first-time visitor to this vibrant city and have decided to rent a car, read on to learn how to pay for parking in Dubai.

What is mParking?

As abovementioned, Dubai is an iconic metropolis renowned for its cutting-edge technology and modern amenities. To simplify acquiring a parking spot and paying the required fees mParking has been created. By taking advantage of this service using either Du or Etisalat sims, you will receive a virtual ticket by covering your charges through your mobile phone in only four easy steps:

  • Sign up for the mParking service and begin by entering your vehicle's plate number.

  • Select the parking zone where you plan to park and estimate how long you'll be there.

  • Create a text with your registered car information, parking area code, and estimated length of stay – then send an SMS message to 7275 (PARK).

In a few moments, you'll receive an SMS confirmatory message that can serve as your parking ticket. Keep this notification secure; if the SMS isn't on your device within five minutes of paying, choose another payment method or contact RTA customer service at 800-9090 for assistance.

When using mParking to pay for parking costs in Dubai, adhere to the following instructions: Unregistered users must structure their SMS like this - Plate number, zone number and duration. Registered users must type out their Nickname followed by Zone Number and Duration. There is a small fee of 30 fils per SMS sent. Note that virtual tickets are only valid within certain areas; make sure your ticket matches the area where you intend to park.

How to pay for car parking by SMS in Dubai

If you're planning to drive in Dubai and need a convenient way to pay for parking, SMS is probably the best option. All you have to do is format an SMS with the required information that we mentioned previously and send it off. Just follow the next directions and be ready to hit the open road without worrying about where and when you can park.

When using the message system for parking, remember to include your plate number, zone number and length of time you wish to park - A12345 317C 1 is an example. If it's only half an hour in Zone A then use any of these formats: .5, .50, 0.5,0.50, 30min or 30 minutes, so they know exactly how long you're staying.

Remember that the half-hour rate is only valid for Zone A; if your car has a number plate from Abu Dhabi or Sharjah, you must include either the country code or emirate code. When everything is ready, hit send--you will get an SMS confirming your successful transaction. It's important: to have enough talk time/SMS balance beforehand, so there are no surprises! Use RTA's built-in payment system on their Smart Application to dodge any extra costs.

Pay for parking in Dubai VIA WhatsApp

Road and Transport Authority (RTA) provides an opportunity to pay securely for your parking through WhatsApp. Just save Mahboub as a contact on your phone by calling 00971-58-800-9090 in WhatsApp, then shoot them a message structured like this: plate code & number > area code > hours parked ...and that's it! Your payment will be processed instantaneously with just one tap. Here is how the information should look when sent: A00000 000A 2.

Other ways to pay the parking free

Dubai offers a range of convenient options for paying your parking fees. If you're an Apple user, Apple Pay is a perfect choice. With its compatibility across all Apple products, you can quickly pay your parking fees safely and securely.

Samsung users can benefit from the Galaxy Pay service, which guarantees the safest possible payment method. Its advanced MST and NFC capabilities make it accepted at more locations than any other mobile payment method.

For those who prefer the traditional bank card option, RFID-enabled cards are a reliable choice. This service allows for simple, secure transactions that make paying your parking fees a breeze.

RTA Dubai or Dubai Drive Application

By introducing the Dubai Drive app, travelling in Dubai has never been easier. This innovative tool provides a hassle-free and convenient way for drivers to access multiple Road and Transport Authority services, such as paying public parking fees.

Get the Dubai Drive app on iPhone App Store, Google Play or HUAWEI AppGallery to begin - it's a simple process. Once you have downloaded and registered your vehicle, payments can be made quickly with just a few clicks.

Coins

The parking lots in the emirate are equipped with machines that are programmed to receive 50 fils and one dirham coin as payment. It's quite a simple process.

Just insert the coins corresponding to your parking duration and collect the ticket. Place the ticket on your vehicle's dashboard to show that you have paid for parking.

NOL Card

Did you also know you could use the NOL Card to pay your parking fees in Dubai? The RTA has installed designated machines in parking lots across the city to streamline the process of paying for parking.

These machines accept NOL Card payments, deducting the parking fee from your NOL balance. They also issue a parking ticket in return.

Prepaid cards

Dubai also offers seasonal prepaid cards for parking that motorists can use in public parking spots. These cards come in three, six, or twelve-month validity options and are available at various prices based on the permit and zone.

The general permit subscription starts from AED 500 for one month and goes up to AED 4,500 for twelve months, while the plots permit subscription ranges from AED 250 to AED 2,400. You can apply for the seasonal card on the RTA website or app by adding vehicle and card details, selecting the card category and duration, and making the payment.

FAQs

Is free parking still available in Dubai on Fridays?

Unfortunately, this is no longer the case; however, you can get free parking every Sunday. The regular paid rate applies from 8 a.m to 10 p.m Monday through Saturday and they have shifted their weekend days from Friday-Saturday to Saturday-Sunday for convenience.

How can I pay the parking fine in Dubai?

There are several ways to pay it with ease. The simplest is online payment via the RTA and Dubai Police websites. After processing your fee, you'll receive confirmation of your payment along with a reference number.

How do I know which parking zone I am in?

Dubai parking areas are distinguished by orange boards with parking codes. Older areas use A, B, C & D, while JLT flats use unique codes like J and K.

What is the non-Dubai car parking SMS format?

For those who don't own a car in Dubai, there's a required SMS format to use when paying for parking. It varies depending on the emirate where your vehicle is registered, and here are some examples:

  • For Sharjah plates - SHJ2 12345 335A 2

  • Abu Dhabi plate holders - AUH13 12345 335A 1

  • And Saudi plates – KSA 123ABC 335A 4

How can I extend my Dubai-paid parking ticket?

In Dubai, you can maximize your parking time with the SMS reminder service that notifies you 10 minutes prior to expiration. To extend your ticket for the same duration, simply respond with a 'Y', or send an additional message to adjust it further.

How can I put parking for a motorcycle in Dubai by SMS?

When settling parking fees in Dubai for motorcycles, take advantage of the easy SMS payment method. All you have to do is prefix your car format with a "B" letter. For example: B AUH14 00000 335A 1.