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Lixiang
Parking correctly in Dubai is critical to avoid fines that can reach up to 1000 AED. Whether you’re exploring Downtown, Marina, or Deira, understanding the city’s parking zones, payment methods, and regulations will save you time and money. To explore Dubai comfortably, renting a car is the best option. Brook Drive offers over 400 models with No Deposit required, 24/7 support, and transparent pricing. This guide covers everything you need to know about parking in Dubai in 2025: zones, tariffs, SMS and WhatsApp payment formats, free parking spots, and how to avoid penalties.
Parking System Overview & Hours
Dubai’s parking system operates with clearly defined hours and tariffs. Paid parking zones are active Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to 22:00. On Sundays and public holidays, most parking is free. During Ramadan 2025 (which began in early March), parking hours remain standard — there is no reduction in paid hours as in previous years. Always check the RTA Dubai app for any zone-specific updates.
Parking is divided into 11 zones (A-K) and further categorized into Category 1 (General) areas — including Deira, Bur Dubai, and Jumeirah — and Category 2 (Other areas). Tariffs vary from 2 AED to 10 AED per hour depending on the zone and location type (commercial, residential, premium).
If you’re driving a large vehicle, be mindful of parking space dimensions, especially in older garages. A fine of 500 AED applies for blocking other vehicles or parking outside marked lines. Here are some spacious models from Brook Drive that require extra attention in tight spots:
| Model | Daily Price | Parking Context | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadillac Escalade Sport Platinum | 1290 AED | Requires extra attention in older parking garages due to width | Book Now |
| Nissan Patrol LE Platinum | 990 AED | Popular but bulky for standard roadside spots | Book Now |
| Dodge RAM TRX | 1290 AED | Extremely wide pickup, avoid tight commercial zones | Book Now |
Dubai Parking Zones Explained: Categories, Codes & Pricing
Understanding parking zones is essential for choosing the right spot and avoiding overpayment. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of all 11 zones with their location types, key areas, standard hourly rates, and daily caps (where applicable).
| Zone Code | Location Type | Key Areas | Standard Price | Daily Cap (approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Commercial (Roadside) | Deira, Bur Dubai (main streets) | 4 AED/hr | 16 AED (4 hrs max) |
| B | Commercial (Lots) | Less crowded commercial areas | 3 AED/hr | 20 AED |
| C | Residential (Roadside) | Non-commercial residential streets | 2 AED/hr | 11 AED (4 hrs max) |
| D | Residential (Lots) | Al Qusais, Al Nahda | 2 AED/hr | 10 AED |
| E | Waterfront/Underground | Deira Waterfront, Underground lots | 4 AED/hr | 16 AED |
| F | Tecom Zone | Dubai Media City, Internet City | 4 AED/hr | Standard rates |
| G | Downtown Premium | Burj Khalifa, Marasi Bay | 4-6 AED/hr | 16+ AED |
| H | Free Trade Zones | Silicon Oasis | 4 AED/hr | Standard rates |
| I | JLT Premium | Jumeirah Lake Towers | 10 AED/hr | Short-term priority |
| J | JLT Standard | Jumeirah Lake Towers | 2.3 AED/30min | Prices increase with time |
| K | Multi-story/Lots | Various locations | 2 AED/30min | Up to 32 AED |
Commercial vs Residential Areas (Category 1 & 2)
Category 1 (General) includes high-traffic commercial zones like Deira, Bur Dubai, and Jumeirah. These areas have higher tariffs (typically 4 AED/hr) and shorter maximum parking durations (4 hours on roadside spots). Category 2 (Other areas) covers residential and less central districts with lower rates (2 AED/hr) and more flexible daily caps.
If you’re parking in busy commercial zones (A, B, E), a compact car can save you time and stress. Here are top picks from Brook Drive for easy maneuvering:
| Model | Daily Price | Parking Benefit | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiat Abarth 595 | 390 AED | Perfect for tight spots in Deira | Rent Fiat |
| Mini Cooper S Convertible | 490 AED | Manoeuvrable in busy Zone A streets | Rent Mini |
| BMW 230i Coupe | 590 AED | Compact sport coupe for city driving | Rent BMW |
Zone Codes (A-K) Breakdown with Landmarks
Here’s how to match popular tourist and business districts with their parking zones:
- Zone G (Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa): Premium pricing at 4-6 AED/hr during peak hours (08:00-10:00 and 16:00-20:00). Arrive in style at the most prestigious locations. Rent luxury car in Dubai or choose a Lamborghini for an unforgettable entrance.
- Zone F (Tecom, Media City, Internet City): Ideal for business meetings in Media City. Rent sedan cars in Dubai or a Mercedes S-Class for comfort and professionalism.
- Dubai Marina/JBR: Enjoy the open-air drive near the beach. Rent convertible cars in Dubai like the Ferrari Portofino for a stunning coastal experience.
- Zone E (Deira Waterfront, Underground lots): Standard 4 AED/hr. Great for exploring the Gold Souk and traditional markets.
- Zones D and C (Al Qusais, Al Nahda, Residential streets): Cheapest parking at 2 AED/hr with daily caps around 10-11 AED. Suitable for long-term parking if you’re staying in residential areas.
How to Pay for Parking: 5 Easy Ways
Dubai offers multiple convenient payment methods to suit every preference. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular options in 2025.
RTA & Dubai Drive Apps (Best Option)
The RTA Dubai and Dubai Drive apps are the most reliable and user-friendly methods. Download them from the App Store or Google Play:
- RTA Dubai: App Store, Google Play
- Dubai Drive: App Store, Google Play
Register your vehicle, select the parking zone, duration, and pay directly through the app. You can extend parking sessions remotely, which is ideal for avoiding fines.
SMS & WhatsApp Format
For those without smartphones or apps, SMS and WhatsApp payments remain viable alternatives. However, WhatsApp is recommended over SMS because it incurs no additional commission (SMS charges 0.30 AED per message).
SMS Payment (Number: 7275)
Format: [Plate Source] [Plate Number] [Zone Number] [Duration in hours]
Example: A 55555 333A 1
- Plate Source: Single letter code (A for Dubai, D for Abu Dhabi, etc.)
- Plate Number: Your license plate number
- Zone Number: The parking zone code (e.g., 333A)
- Duration: Number of hours (1-24)
You will receive a confirmation SMS. Note the 0.30 AED commission per SMS.
WhatsApp Payment (Number: +971 58 058 0580)
- Add the RTA bot number to your contacts: +971 58 058 0580
- Send a message with your plate number and parking zone (follow the bot’s instructions)
- Confirm the payment amount
- Receive a digital receipt
WhatsApp payment is faster and commission-free, making it the preferred choice for many drivers in 2025.
Terminals, Cards (Nol), and NFC
Physical payment methods are still widely available:
- Parking Terminals: Accept coins (1 AED to 50 fils). After payment, attach the ticket to your windshield in a visible spot.
- Prepaid Parking Cards: Available in 30, 50, or 100 AED denominations at most supermarkets and malls. Insert the card into a terminal to deduct the required amount.
- Seasonal Cards: Unlimited parking for 3, 6, or 12 months in Zones A and B. Ideal for frequent parkers.
- Nol Cards: Rechargeable cards that can be topped up and used for parking and public transport.
- NFC and RFID: Tap your contactless bank card or smartphone at the terminal for instant payment.
Where to Park for Free: Malls, Metro & Public Holidays
Free parking is a great way to save money while exploring Dubai. Here are the best spots and conditions in 2025.
Shopping Malls Policies
Dubai Mall offers free parking for visitors during daytime hours. The first 4 hours are free Monday to Thursday, and 6 hours are free Friday to Sunday. After that, hourly rates apply. Overnight parking is prohibited and can result in towing. Valet parking and VIP zones are available for a fee starting at 50 AED. Free electric vehicle charging is available at Fashion Parking for registered users.
If you’re planning a shopping trip or visiting Burj Khalifa, plenty of space is available for family vehicles. Rent family cars in Dubai or choose a spacious SUV for maximum comfort.
For those arriving in luxury vehicles, valet parking is the most convenient option. Here are top luxury models from Brook Drive perfect for Dubai Mall and Fashion Avenue:
| Model | Daily Price | Category | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rolls Royce Cullinan Black | 4290 AED | Luxury SUV | Rent Rolls Royce |
| Lamborghini Urus Violet | 2990 AED | Sports SUV | Rent Urus |
| Ferrari F8 Spider | 3390 AED | Sports Convertible | Rent Ferrari |
Mall of the Emirates follows a similar policy with free parking for the first few hours, followed by hourly charges. Always validate your parking ticket at the mall’s customer service desk if you make purchases, as some retailers offer extended free parking.
Park & Ride (Metro Stations)
Dubai’s Park & Ride system allows drivers to leave their cars at designated metro stations for free when using public transport. The most popular station is Ibn Battuta Metro Station on the Red Line. Other stations like Dubai Investment Park may also offer this service.
Conditions for Free Park & Ride:
- You must have a valid Nol card and use the metro for your journey.
- Validate your Nol card upon entering and exiting the station.
- Parking is free only during daytime travel. Overnight parking is strictly prohibited and will result in fines.
- Maximum parking duration is typically limited to the day of travel.
This system is ideal for tourists and commuters who want to avoid parking fees in central areas while exploring the city via metro.
Special Categories: EV (Green) Parking & Disabled Permits
Electric Vehicles (Green Parking)
Electric vehicle owners in Dubai enjoy several benefits, including access to designated EV charging stations and, in some cases, free or discounted parking at eco-friendly zones. While a special sticker is not required in Dubai (unlike some other regions), EV owners can use charging stations at malls like Dubai Mall (Fashion Parking) for free if registered with the RTA.
Renting an EV is an excellent way to save on fuel costs and enjoy hassle-free parking. Rent electric cars in Dubai or choose a premium Tesla for zero-emission travel.
Here are the top electric vehicles available at Brook Drive with No Deposit required:
| Model | Price (1-2 days) | Price (30+ days) | Min Age/Exp | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model X | 1190 AED | 510 AED | Age 25/Exp 5 | View Tesla |
| Mercedes EQS 580 | 990 AED | 690 AED | Age 25/Exp 3 | View Mercedes |
| Hummer EV | 1990 AED | 1690 AED | Age 25/Exp 5 | View Hummer |
| Lixiang L9 | 750 AED | 500 AED | Age 23/Exp 5 | View Lixiang |
People of Determination (Disabled Permits)
Parking in spaces designated for People of Determination (disabled parking) without a valid permit is strictly prohibited. The fine for this violation is 1000 AED and 6 black points on your license — the highest parking-related penalty in Dubai. Only vehicles with a special RTA-issued permit are allowed to use these spaces. The permit can be obtained through the RTA upon providing medical documentation.
Parking Violations, Fines & How to Pay
List of Common Fines (2025)
- 150 AED: Unpaid parking or missing parking ticket
- 100 AED: Overstaying a paid parking session
- 200 AED: Parking in an unauthorized area (e.g., sidewalk, pedestrian crossing)
- 200 AED: Obstructing other vehicles
- 500 AED: Blocking an entrance or exit to a parking spot
- 500 AED: Improper parking (e.g., outside marked lines)
- 400-500 AED: Parking on sidewalks or pedestrian crossings
- 300 AED: Parking with the engine running
- 500 AED: Parking a commercial vehicle in a residential area
- 1000 AED and 6 black points: Parking in a disabled spot without a permit
Grace Period and How to Avoid Fines
In 2025, the RTA maintains a 10-minute grace period after your paid parking time expires. This means you have 10 minutes to extend your payment or move your vehicle without incurring a fine.
Important: Do not rely on this buffer — RTA scanning vehicles patrol frequently, and fines are issued quickly.
To avoid penalties:
- Always pay for parking immediately upon arrival.
- Use the RTA app to set reminders and extend sessions remotely.
- Double-check the zone code on the orange signage before paying.
- Never park in disabled zones, fire lanes, or areas marked «No Parking.»
How to Check and Dispute Fines Online
The RTA provides an online service to check and pay parking fines:
On this page, enter your vehicle number or fine reference number to view a list of all unpaid violations, including the date, time, location, and amount.
Payment Methods:
- Online via credit card (Visa, Mastercard)
- RTA Dubai mobile app (iOS and Android)
- Cash at RTA customer service centers
If you believe a fine was issued in error, you can dispute it online through the RTA app or website. Navigate to the «Dispute Fine» section, upload supporting evidence (e.g., parking receipt, photos), and submit your claim. The RTA typically responds within 5-7 business days.
If parking fines worry you, save on your rental choice. Rent economy cars in Dubai or browse our Special Offer Rental Car Price in Dubai section for the best deals.
Parking in Dubai: Frequently Asked Questions
How to determine the parking zone of a parking lot?
Look for the orange signage posted at the parking area. It contains all necessary information about the zone code, operating hours, and tariffs. You can also use the RTA Dubai app to scan the zone code or check the interactive map.
When is parking free in Dubai?
Parking in Dubai is free on Sundays and on most public holidays. Additionally, parking is free after 22:00 (10 PM) on all days. This is a great opportunity for tourists and residents to explore the city without parking fees.
When do you need to pay for parking in Dubai?
Parking must be paid during operating hours, which are typically Monday to Saturday from 08:00 to 22:00. During Ramadan 2025, hours remain standard. Always check the zone signage or RTA app for any updates.
For how long can you leave your car parked in Dubai?
The maximum parking duration varies by zone and type:
- Roadside parking (Zones A, C): Up to 4 hours
- Paid parking lots (Zones B, D, E, etc.): Up to 24 hours
- Multi-story parking (Zone K and malls): Up to 30 days (check with the specific facility)
Exceeding the maximum duration will result in fines, so always monitor your parking session via the RTA app.
Can I pay for parking with a foreign credit card?
Yes, the RTA app and most parking terminals accept international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard). NFC-enabled cards and smartphones can also be used at contactless terminals.
What should I do if I get a parking fine?
Check the fine details on the RTA portal. If the fine is valid, pay it as soon as possible to avoid additional charges. If you believe it was issued in error, dispute it online through the RTA app or website by submitting evidence and an explanation.
Are there any parking benefits for electric vehicles?
Yes, electric vehicle owners can access free charging stations at select locations like Dubai Mall (Fashion Parking). While there is no formal sticker system in Dubai as of 2025, EV drivers should register with the RTA to access these benefits. Renting an electric car from Brook Drive is a great way to enjoy these perks without ownership costs.
