How To Put Parking In Dubai

Driving in the busy streets of Dubai and finding parking is really testy. But how much is understood by the locals or the visitors about how to put parking in Dubai? This post will take you through all you need to know: the different types of parking zones, payment methods, and some tips on how not to attract fines.

Understanding Parking Zones in Dubai

Before you can effectively implement parking in Dubai, you have to understand the various parking zones within the city.

Types of Parking Zones

• Commercial Zones:

These are usually located next to business districts and shopping centers.

Rates usually tend to be higher because of high demand for spaces.

• Residential Zones:

These usually cater to the local residents.

Rates are cheap and might offer free-of-cost options.

• Special Zones:

Those around tourist attractions, events, and festivals.

Prices change according to events or seasons of the year.

Parking Rates and Operational Hours

Dubai rates range from AED 2 to AED 4 per hour. Operating hours are from 8 AM to 10 PM, from Saturday to Thursday. It is advised, however, that one should always check local signs since there might be a variation in the rates or operational hours.

Free Parking:

Sunday is usually free in most areas.

Some of the public holidays may be free, but it is always good to make sure through signage.

How to put Parking in Dubai:

1. By Parking Meters

It is one of the standard ways people pay for parking in Dubai. How to do it is explained as under:

• Find a Parking Meter: Meters are generally available on your right-hand side, commonly on commercial and public areas.
• Check the Zone: Check for the zone number on the signs across the meter. Insert Coins: Pay for parking using AED 1 and 50 fils coins.
•  Enter Plate Number: When prompted, enter your vehicle’s plate number. Confirmation: You will get an SMS as confirmation for parking, which is proof. 

2. SMS Parking

One of the least troublesome and fastest-growing ways to make a parking payment is SMS parking. Following are the steps to park your car in Dubai with the help of SMS, step by step:

Register for SMS Parking

• Visit the RTA Website: Access the SMS parking sign-up section.
• Enter Information: Enter your vehicle plate number, your mobile number, and your Emirates ID.
• Payment Option Selection: You can choose between a prepaid or post-paid account.
• Get Activation: Get an acknowledgement message.

Sending an SMS

• Find the Parking Zone Number: Check this on the parking sign.
• Type Your Message: In this format:
• Plate Code Zone Number Duration
• Example: “A1234 1234 2” for two hours.
• Send SMS to 7275: Compose and send your message to the indicated number.
• Confirmation SMS: You will receive a confirmation message with your payment.

3. RTA Dubai App

The RTA Dubai app pays for parking in the city on a very modern note. Here’s how to do it:

• Download the App: It is available on both Android and iOS devices.
• Register Your Vehicle: Fill in the details of your vehicle, including the plate number and zone.
• Choose an Option: Choose your parking zone and duration of stay.
• Pay using Card: Confirm your pay using a credit/debit card.
• Auto-Renewal Option: You can enable this feature to renew your parking lot automatically. This won’t let you forget to renew the parking and, as a result, face a fine.

4. Payment using WhatsApp

WhatsApp for the purpose of paying parking charges is one more innovative method for making a payment. Here is how to do that:

• Add the RTA Number: Save +971 58 800 9090 to your contacts.
• Compose Your Message: Format it as:
• Plate Number Zone Number Duration
• Example: “A00000 000A 2”.
• Send the Message: Send through WhatsApp.
• Confirmation SMS: You will receive a confirmation SMS linked to your plate number.

5. NOL Card

The NOL card is a smart card that comes with various services, including parking. Here is how to pay for parking in Dubai using a NOL card:

• Obtain a NOL Card: Available at kiosks and retail outlets. 
• Tap at Meter: Tap your NOL card at the parking machine.
• Choose Duration: Choose the time period for which you have to park.
• Take Ticket: Take the printed ticket for your record.

6. Digital Wallet

Digital wallets are fast catching up as one of the most modern ways to pay for parking in Dubai. Presently, this is how they work:

• Open Your Digital Wallet: Open using Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Huawei Pay.
• Tap to Pay: Tap your phone at the parking payment machine.
• Confirm Payment: Follow the on-screen prompts to completion.

7. Seasonal Parking Cards

If one does frequent parking in Dubai, seasonal parking cards are the economical way to go about it. Here is what you need to know:

• Duration: You will get the cards for three months, six months, or one year.
• Flash Card: Although physically the cards are not necessarily required to pay the fee, you may be asked to activate them from the RTA app.
• Save on Fines: In this way, you are exempted from daily payments to park your vehicle using these cards.

How to Avoid Fines for Parking in Dubai

Learning how much to pay to park in Dubai is just one half of it – as significant as knowing how not to get fined. Following are some very useful tips:

1. Read Signs Carefully

Always give attention to parking signs, as they have very important information about the rate and operation hours.

2. Renew Your Parking Session in Time

If later your plans change and you have to stay longer, then renew the session prior to its expiration. You can use SMS or the RTA app for prompt extensions.

3. Register for SMS Parking

If you are a frequent parker in Dubai, then get yourself registered for SMS parking; it makes paying easier and you will not have to pay the fine.

4. Seasonal Parking Cards – Use Them Wisely

For the frequent users, seasonal cards not only save money but time also. Just keep in mind the activation of cards as and when required.

5. Be Aware of the Restriction Areas

Be well aware of restricted parking zones so that you will avoid parking in such areas to prevent fines and towing.

6. Utilize Parking Apps

Parking apps facilitate one finding space availability, paying for the same. Applications provide real-time parking availability.

Understanding Fees and Fines

Parking comes with a fee; one risks facing fines in case one fails to address the rules. Here is a quick overview of how much it costs to park in Dubai:

Common Parking Fees

Basic parking fee: AED 2- AED 4, depending on the zone.

Overnight parking: rates differ-check with the signs.

Common Fines

Parking without buying a ticket: AED 150

Illegal Parking: AED 500

Parking in a Handicap Spot without Permit: AED 1,000

Blocking Driveways: AED 500

Special Considerations for Tourists

If you’re visiting Dubai to have a few more details on how to do parking in Dubai:

1. Know About the Local Rules

Not all rules may be the same for tourists. Find out the particular rule being implemented for tourists.

2. Hotel House Parking

Many hotels do have guest parking facilities, so if you happen to stay in one, consider making use of it for convenience.

3. Avail Public Transportation

Dubai has a fine public transport network. For those who would like to see the city, it would be much better to make use of a metro or buses so that they can keep themselves away from the headache of finding a parking space.

Conclusion

Everybody who comes here should know how to park in Dubai. You will find it easy getting around, as you will understand the different methods of paying for parking, such as parking meters, SMS parking, the RTA App, WhatsApp Payments, and NOL Cards. Always know your parking zone, the rate, and the rules to avoid fines. With this detailed guide, you are adequately prepared to park in Dubai with efficiency and confidence.