Planning to Drive in Dubai? Think Ahead About Parking
If you plan to get around Dubai by car, it’s worth thinking in advance about where to park. Despite the city’s well-designed transport system, parking in busy areas isn’t always straightforward.
Types of Parking
🅿 Municipal (Paid) Parking
City-run parking areas, managed by the RTA, are the most common. They’re marked by gray meters and yellow/blue curb markings. Usually active from 08:00 to 22:00 (Friday is free). Rates vary by zone: typically AED 2–4 per hour.
Note: Once time expires, fines add up quickly.
🆓 Free Parking
Found near small mosques, local grocery stores, or in residential areas. But don’t count on finding a spot easily—especially on weekday evenings.
🏬 Mall Parking
For example, Dubai Mall offers 4 hours free. After that, hourly fees apply. Lost your parking ticket? The fine might exceed your daily car rental cost.
🏨 Hotel Parking
Hotels often offer valet parking—convenient if you’re a guest. It may be complimentary, but not always. If you’re visiting a hotel restaurant, ask if parking is included.
How to Pay for Parking
- Coins at the meter (dirhams required)
- SMS from a local number—convenient, but you’ll need to know the zone code
- RTA Dubai app — fastest and easiest option
- Nol transport card — works at certain terminals
Common Fines
| Violation | Fine (AED) |
|---|---|
| Parking outside designated zone | 200 |
| Overtime parking | 150–300 |
| Blocking an exit | 500–1000 |
| Parking in disabled zone without permit | 1000–2000 |
📌 Some fines are automatically deducted from your rental deposit—you might not even know about the violation until you return the car.
Practical Tips
- Always read signs — in some areas, parking is free during the day and paid at night, or vice versa.
- R-zones (residential parking) may require a permit. Parking without one is risky.
- Don’t trust every empty curb. Lack of signs doesn’t always mean it’s okay.
- Yellow curbs = no parking. See red-and-white paint? Just drive away.
Conclusion
Dubai’s parking system is logical—if you know the rules. It’s better to research the zones around your hotel in advance than spend your vacation paying fines. Or even better: book a hotel with underground parking.