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Wrong Parking: Fines & How to Report it in UAE

Wrong parking in the UAE isn’t just frustrating, it’s a real roadblock. From blocking driveways to occupying multiple parking bays in public spaces, such violations put pressure on traffic flow, slow emergency response times, and create safety risks for other vehicles and pedestrians. In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where structured parking zones are vital for smooth transportation, understanding what counts as wrong parking and how to report it, is key to keeping roads clear and communities safe.

In this blog post by MOOV By Al-Futtaim, we’ll walk you through what wrong parking refers to, including double parking, misusing disabled spots, blocking pedestrian crossings, and other illegal actions. You’ll learn the full list of violation types, typical fines across Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and how to report wrong parking using official tools like the Dubai Police app, Abu Dhabi Police apps, Darb, and more. We’ll also provide a step-by-step guide for submitting a successful wrong parking complaint with all the necessary details and evidence, and how you can help improve UAE road safety.

What Counts as Wrong Parking in the UAE

No auto parking sign

Drivers must park properly to prevent danger and delay. Wrong parking violations include:

  • Double parking: Leaving a vehicle parked alongside another in a single lane.
  • Blocking driveways: Prevents vehicle owners from entering or exiting their properties.
  • Parking on pedestrian crossings or sidewalks: Obstructs public walkways and poses safety risks.
  • Misusing disabled parking spaces: Reserved strictly for those with valid permits.
  • Occupying multiple parking bays: Especially in paid parking zones, this reduces available space.

Each of these actions disrupts traffic, delays other drivers, and can endanger pedestrians. Parking in such a way, even for a few minutes, can result in fines, complaints, and even your parked car being towed.

Fines for Wrong Parking in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Fines for wrong parking vary depending on the violation type, vehicle obstruction, and emirate:

Dubai (Dubai Police & Roads and Transport Authority):

  • Blocking roads/driveways: AED 1,000 + towing
  • Double parking: AED 500
  • Misusing disabled parking: AED 1,000 + 4 black points
  • Parking in emergency lanes or hard shoulders: AED 1,000
  • No payment in paid zones: AED 150
  • Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi Police & Integrated Transport Centre):
  • Obstructing vehicles: AED 500
  • Parking on sidewalks: AED 400
  • Wrong use of restricted zones: AED 300
  • Unauthorized disabled parking use: AED 1,000 + 4 black points

Fines can be linked to your traffic file number, and you may receive a parking ticket or an SMS. Ignoring repeat offenses may lead to car impoundment or more parking fines. Always check your fine number on official portals or dispute fines online if necessary. For related rules and processes, you can also read our guide on Dubai driving licence renewal, fees, and fines.

How to Report Wrong Parking in Dubai

A women getting into her parked car

Residents can report wrong parking with speed and ease using digital Dubai Police tools:

1. Dubai Police App:

  • Download via App Store or Google Play.
  • Tap “Report Traffic Violation” > select “Wrong Parking.”
  • Upload clear photos showing the license plate, violation type, and exact location.
  • Provide your Emirates ID, vehicle details, and optional supporting documents.

2. Calling Dubai Police (901):

  • Share the vehicle number, location, and issue (e.g., blocking roads).

3. RTA Website (‘My Vehicle’ Service):

  • Use your UAE Pass to log in.
  • Report via the “Report Vehicle Obstruction” form.

Providing accurate info helps authorities act fast. False complaints or unclear descriptions can delay the process or be rejected. If you're looking to avoid fines altogether, check out our guide on where to find free parking in Dubai.

How to Report Wrong Parking in Abu Dhab

white and black no parking sign

Abu Dhabi has several smart services for stopping wrong parking:

1. Darb Mobile App Download:

  • Tap “Report Violation.”
  • Add vehicle plate number, photos, and location coordinates.

2. Abu Dhabi Police App:

  • Use your UAE Pass to access services.
  • Submit details like vehicle number, violation type, and area.

3. Call Abu Dhabi Police (800 3333):

  • Ideal for urgent cases like vehicle blocking emergency lanes or ambulance access.

Your report must include clear images, proper location pins, and a short description (e.g., “parked across driveway in Al Khalidiya”). For everyday parking compliance, here’s how to pay for parking in Abu Dhabi using official methods.

Tips for Filing a Successful Wrong Parking Complaint

To ensure a successful dispute or fast complaint response:

  • Take clear, close-up photos of the license plate, surroundings, and violation.
  • Capture exact location via GPS or nearby building name.
  • Clarify the issue concisely, avoid vague descriptions like "bad parking."
  • Check for repeated violations before reporting.
  • Comply with city-specific procedures (e.g., RTA in Dubai, ITC in Abu Dhabi).

Submissions with strong visual evidence, accurate details, and matching formats will be processed more efficiently by the transport authority.

Why Reporting Wrong Parking Matters

Stopping wrong parking helps support:

  • Safer roads for pedestrians and other drivers
  • Respectful parking behavior in public spaces
  • Reduced congestion in high-traffic areas
  • Reliable access to emergency lanes and disabled parking
  • Responsible vehicle use across all parking zones

When you report such violations, you’re not just protecting your parking lot, you’re playing a role in smarter, safer urban mobility across the UAE.

Final Thoughts: Park Right, Report Smart, Drive Better

Wrong parking might seem minor, but its impact is massive, from safety concerns to traffic jams. Whether you’re a resident or visitor, staying informed about wrong parking violations, using official apps like Darb or the Dubai Police app, and reporting problems can protect you and your community.

If you're ready to stay compliant, avoid penalties, and explore smarter mobility, contact MOOV By Al-Futtaim today. Our flexible car subscriptions include full support for registration, parking access, and roadside help, so you can drive smarter, safer, and stress-free.

Check out our latest car collection and move through the UAE the right way, with MOOV by Al-Futtaim.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the fine for wrong parking in Dubai?

Fines vary from AED 150 for unpaid parking to AED 1,000 for blocking roads or misusing restricted zones. Violations may also add black points to your license.

What is the new parking rule in Dubai?

New rules require drivers to use smart meters or apps to pay for paid parking zones. Non-payment results in a AED 150 parking fine.

What is the maximum fine for a parking ticket?

The highest parking fine is AED 1,000 for violations like blocking emergency lanes or misusing disabled parking spaces. Vehicle towing charges may apply.