How to Pay Parking in Abu Dhabi

Finding parking in Abu Dhabi may feel frustrating at first, but the polished Mawaqif parking system transforms the experience into a practical and time-saving process; from premium to standard parking zones, understanding how to pay for parking in Abu Dhabi helps prevent penalties and promotes a smoother journey across the city. Whether you're a frequent resident driver or a first-time visitor, this full guide by MOOV By Al-Futtaim will walk you through parking fees, permits, payment formats, and tips for trouble-free parking.

Understanding Abu Dhabi’s Parking System

Growing steadily since its launch in 2009, Mawaqif is the main paid parking system governed by the Department of Transport and managed today by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) in Abu Dhabi; and the mission of the Mawaqif parking system is to manage parking spaces, minimize congestion, and maintain smooth traffic movement throughout the city. If you're looking to grasp how to pay Mawaqif Abu Dhabi parking fees, whether through SMS or mobile apps, multiple trusted methods make the process quick and manageable.

Types of Parking Zones in Abu Dhabi

Standard Parking Zones (Black and White Curbs)

Standard parking spaces, distinguished by black and white curbs, are scattered across residential districts and less dense commercial areas. It demands AED 2 per hour or AED 15 for the day. Set Mawaqif parking fees are charged from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM, while drivers enjoy free parking on Sundays and designated public holidays.

Premium Parking Zones (Blue and White Curbs)

Premium parking zones, clearly marked with blue and white curbs, are positioned in crowded city centers and commercial complexes. Premium parking charges are priced at AED 3 per hour, permitting a maximum stay of four hours. Perfect for quick visits to malls, civic offices, and bustling community spots, these spaces cater to drivers needing convenient, short-term parking.

Parking Fees in Abu Dhabi

Understanding parking fees is crucial when figuring out how to pay the parking fee in Abu Dhabi. Here's a quick breakdown:

Methods to Pay for Parking in Abu Dhabi

1- Abu Dhabi Parking Paying via SMS

Operating the system to pay for parking by SMS in Abu Dhabi is simple and practical. If you're wondering how to pay for parking by SMS in Abu Dhabi, just follow these steps:

• Open your messaging app.
• Set up a new message.
• Provide the required details in this format: City & Plate Code <space> Plate Number <space> Parking Type (S or P) <space> Parking Duration.
• Send the SMS to 3009.
• Shortly after, you'll receive a confirmation message.
• Prepare to get a reminder 10 minutes before your parking session expires.

This straightforward process, called the mawaqif parking sms or sms parking system, supports vehicles registered in all UAE emirates and ensures quick parking payments without hassle.

2- Using the uParking App

The Parking app allows drivers to pay for Mawaqif parking across Abu Dhabi seamlessly. As the most practical option available, it provides a simple path for motorists wondering how to pay for parking in Abu Dhabi online.

To pay for parking using the uParking app, follow these steps:

Step-by-Step Guide to Using uParking App for Abu Dhabi Parking:

1. Register / Log In

Open the app and sign up using your mobile number and vehicle details.

2. Add Vehicle Information

Enter your car’s plate number, plate code, and the emirate (e.g., AUH for Abu Dhabi).

3. Choose a Parking Zone

Select whether you're in a Standard (S) or Premium (P) parking area.

4. Select Duration

Choose how long you want to park (e.g., 1 hour, 2 hours, etc.).

5. Confirm and Pay

Proceed to payment and confirm the transaction. You’ll receive an in-app confirmation of your parking session.

6. Session Reminders

The app will notify you before your parking session ends so you can extend it if needed.

Using the uParking app not only helps you manage your parking efficiently but also avoids common SMS errors and saves time.

3- Parking Meters

Traditional turquoise meters, readily recognizable across Abu Dhabi, make parking payments manageable. These meters accept regular coins and Mawaqif rechargeable cards, offering motorists a reliable method to manage their parking without turning to SMS or mobile apps.

4- DARB App

The DARB app allows you to not only pay for toll gates in Abu Dhabi, but also includes Abu Dhabi Mawaqif, which allows you to pay for parking through the app. The updated Mawaqif parking system makes your life much easier to pay for parking with numerous payment methods:

Here's the step-by-step instructions to pay for parking in Abu Dhabi through Mawaqif on the DARB app:

Step 1: Install the DARB app on iOS or on the Play Store

Step 2: Set up your account

Step 3: Navigate to "Pay for Parking"

Step 4: Enter your vehicle information and tap on the parking type.

Step 5: Add the external vehicle information

Step 6: Select parking duration and page

Resident Parking Permits

Eligibility and Application Process

Residents living in Abu Dhabi are eligible for parking permits allowing them to park near their homes. To apply, residents must submit documents such as a Tawtheeq rental contract, utility bills, and car registration via platforms like TAMM.

Fees and Validity

For non-UAE nationals, the fees are:

Meanwhile, for UAE nationals, they’re:

Extending Your Parking Session

Planning to prolong your parking session? Begin by:

• Sending “E” via SMS to 3009 before your parking time expires.
• Better yet, tap into the Mawaqif app and extend through your parking history tab.

Both techniques are practical and help you prevent getting a parking ticket for overstaying.

Car Parking Fines and Violations

Common Violations

Prevent penalties by following parking rules carefully:

• Parking without a valid fee payment: Fine of AED 200.
• Parking across two full spaces: Fine of AED 200.
• Presenting a parking ticket from a foreign area: Fine of AED 100.
• Parking in a forbidden bus or taxi spot: Fine of AED 500.

A 10-minute grace period applies after parking expiry.

Checking and Paying Fines

You can check and pay fines through:

• Abu Dhabi Police website or app.
• TAMM platform.
• Mawaqif customer care centers.

Free Parking Days in Abu Dhabi

Free parking is available on:

• Sundays.
• Official public holidays.
• Occasionally, at malls and special event venues, they provide limited-time promotions.

Valet Parking Services in Abu Dhabi

Major hotels, central malls, commercial centres, and medical clinics commonly offer valet services. It’s a convenient choice for motorists who may struggle to find car parking during crowded peak hours.

Tips for Hassle-Free Parking in Abu Dhabi

• Prepare by using the Mawaqif app to pin point available parking spaces efficiently.
• Double-check parking restrictions displayed on signs to dodge unexpected fines.
• Find and use park-and-ride facilities during major festivals and large events.
• Plan your parking approach early, particularly around densely populated areas.
• Fuel your readiness by recharging your Mawaqif rechargeable card for any parking needs.

For visitors wondering how to pay for parking in Abu Dhabi for Dubai plate numbers, the Integrated Transport Centre ensures that the Mawaqif system supports UAE-wide vehicle registrations through SMS and mobile apps, offering flexibility across all emirates.

Assisting you at every stage, this guide brings all the basic parking details for a smoother experience across Abu Dhabi. Whether you access the Mawaqif parking app, book parking through Abu Dhabi parking SMS, or swipe your Mawaqif rechargeable card, steering through Abu Dhabi’s parking system becomes simpler and smarter.

Aiming for a broader adventure? Book a car with MOOV By Al-Futtaim and set out in style. Browse our website to learn more about us, and we can support your smooth and stress-free travels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to pay for Abu Dhabi parking by SMS?

• Draft a new message on your phone.
• Build it using this format: City &Plate Code <space> Plate Number <space> Parking Type (S or P)<space> Parking Duration.
• Deliver the SMS to 3009.

Be ready to receive a confirmation and a reminder 10 minutes before your parking time ends.

How do I pay for parking for an Abu Dhabi plate in Dubai?

When parking in Dubai with an Abu Dhabi plate, use Dubai’s RTA system. SMS format:(plate code and number) to RTA number 7275, or use the RTA Dubai app.

How to pay for parking a rental car in Abu Dhabi?

For rental cars, use sms parking or the Mawaqif app. Make sure you have the plate number and the emirate code. Some rental companies offer prepaid mawaqif account options.

How much is the parking fee in Abu Dhabi?

Parking fees in Abu Dhabi are:

• Standard parking: AED 2/hour.
• Premium parking: AED 3/hour.
• Daily max (Standard): AED 15.

Is premium parking free in Abu Dhabi?

No, premium parking is only free during special public announcements or promotions. Normally, parking fees apply even on Fridays unless specified otherwise.

What is the Mawaqif parking time in Abu Dhabi?

Mawaqif parking in Abu Dhabi operates from 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM, Saturday to Thursday. This applies to both types of paid parking:

• Primary Parking (marked with turquoise and white lines)
• Subsidiary Parking (marked with turquoise and black lines)

Parking is usually free on Fridays and public holidays, but it’s always best to check local signage for any updates or exceptions.

What is the parking code for Mawaqif in Abu Dhabi?

The parking code for Abu Dhabi-registered vehicles, use AUH.

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