How to pay for parking in Dubai has become simple and convenient, thanks to the city’s modern public parking system. There are many different ways a car owner can pay for parking in Dubai, making it very easy for people to park their vehicles. Car owners have several methods available for them to park their vehicles. They could send an SMS or Whatsapp message or purchase a Seasonal Card. The payment methods provided by the government are very quick and easy to use and will save you time.
Payment systems for parking in Dubai are evolving to be more flexible. The SMS method allows for instant payment via cell phone while seasonal cards offer an extensive option for frequent users. In the article, we’ll outline more ways to pay for parking in Dubai and provide steps for making payment easy for both the user and the parking authority.
Ways to Pay for Parking in Dubai
Dubai has a smart system which enables users to pay for their parking very quickly and easily. The RTA has developed a number of different methods for making payments to provide convenience to both residents and visitors. Payment methods include using SMS or Whatsapp, using credit/debit cards, or by using parking machines. All payment methods will function well throughout the various parking zones. However, drivers will need to make sure that they are using the correct payment format. As well as look at the zone information to ensure that they do not receive a fine for a mistake.
What is the mParking Service?
mParking is an electric service offered by the management organization (The Roads and Transport Authority) RTA that allows drivers to pay for their parking fee via their mobile phone in all designated parking areas in Dubai. Many drivers have found mparking to be a convenient way to pay for their parking and they enjoy the ease and simplicity of being able to process their payments quickly which saves them a great deal of time.
Requirements for SMS Parking Payment
To use SMS parking payment, please ensure you have met the following criteria:
- Registered on the RTA website (www.rta.ae) for SMS parking payment.
- Have an active local Dubai phone number.
- Have sufficient credit in your account.
- Know your vehicle’s plate number.
- Know your parking zone code.
How to Find the Parking Zone Code
To find your zone code, look for the blue or orange sign boards located within each parking area. The sign board will show the zone number and code for that area. Alternatively, you can use the RTA’s website or mobile application to find your parking zone code.
How to Pay for Parking Through SMS (Dubai Plates)
To pay for a parking spot with SMS in Dubai follow the below procedure:
- Type your SMS in the following format “ Plate number space Zone Number space Time Period”
- Send the SMS to the number 7275 (PARK).
Example: A00000 444A 2
Once received, the system will send you a return message confirming your payment.
SMS Format for Vehicles from Other Emirates
Cars registered in other Emirates will need to enter their information differently than stipulated below:
“Emirate Code space Plate Code space Plate Number space Area Code space Time Period”
Examples:
- Abu Dhabi: AUH13 00000 000A 1
- Sharjah: SHJ2 00000 000A 2
- Ajman: AJM 00000 000A 4
- Fujairah: FUJ 00000 000A 5
- Ras Al Khaimah: RAKN 00000 000A 3
Any driver from any emirate can use the SMS parking service while they are in Dubai.
Parking Reminder and Extension
A reminder message will be sent to you approximately 10 minutes before your parking expires, therefore, it is easy for you to avoid fines. To extend your parking time you must send the letter ‘Y” to the number 7275.
How to Pay via WhatsApp
Parking fees can also be paid through Whatsapp by RTA. To pay for parking via whatsapp follow the following steps:
- Save RTA chatbot Mahboub on Whatsapp +971 58 800 9090.
- Start a chat.
- Send the Plat Number space Zone Number space Duration following the format.
- You will receive a confirmation message once you complete the payment.
Dubai Parking Charges
The city of Dubai has numerous parking zones where rates and operating hours differ by area. Each parking zone has its own respective rate structures.
| Zone | Timing | ½ Hour | 1 Hour | 2 Hours | 3 Hours | 4 Hours | 5 Hours | 24 Hours |
| A | 08:00–22:00 | 2 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 | ||
| B | 08:00–22:00 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 14 | 20 | |
| C | 08:00–22:00 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 11 | |||
| D | 08:00–22:00 | 2 | 4 | 5 | 7 | 10 | ||
| E | 08:00–23:00 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 | |||
| F | 08:00–18:00 | 2 | 5 | 8 | 11 | |||
| G | 08:00–22:00 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 | |||
| Multi-Storey | 24 Hours | 5 Per Hour |
A driver can extend their parking time via SMS as required and the charges are based on both the area and duration of the parking stay. All rates mentioned above are in AED.
Other Parking Payment Options
Dubai has a variety of ways to pay for your car:
- Coins for parking are paid at the machine
- Credit or debit cards
- eParking cards
- Salik
- Nol Card
- RTA mobile application
- Apple Pay
- Cash
- Samsung Pay
Free Parking Days in Dubai
You can continue to enjoy free parking on public holidays and weekends. Therefore, you can park without charge on these holidays and weekends unless there are special regulations in effect in your area.
Dubai Parking SMS Updates 2025
Dubai launched several changes to the parking system in 2025. These changes focus on managing traffic and reducing congestion during peak traffic times. Premium area parking fees are adjusted by the authorities and event based pricing was introduced at selected locations. Drivers must monitor zone signboards regularly to ensure they are aware of the latest parking rules, thereby avoiding being charged extra.
Revised Parking Charges in 2025
A new variable parking fee structure was implemented in April 2025. Premium zones have multiple rates during peak and off-peak hours.
- Peak Hours ( 8 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 8 PM ) – AED 6 Per Hour
- Off-Peak – AED 4 Per Hour
- Regular Parking Zone – AED 4 Per Hour all day
The revised structure is intended to encourage both residents and visitors to use public transportation during peak times.
Current Paid Parking Timings
Paid parking is in effect from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. There is no charge for parking on Sunday or official holidays. It is important for all drivers to review their local parking signs, especially in premium area parking, and for events in high-parked areas.
Event-Based Parking Fees
As of February 2025, an event-based parking fee structure is implemented for major events in Dubai. For example, parking in premium areas surrounding the Dubai World Trade Center will be charged a maximum of AED 25 per hour during large events. Congestion pricing, which was implemented by authorities, helps manage heavy traffic at these and other similar locations.
Conclusion
How to pay for parking in Dubai is now easier than ever, as drivers can choose from SMS, Whatsapp, cards, or parking machines based on their convenience. Updated formatting will help prevent monetary inconvenience by eliminating fines to people with inaccurate or out of date zone numbers or time frames for parking on any street. The goal of Al Riyady is to provide residents and visitors with accurate and simple directions and guidelines for understanding the parking regulations.
