Dubai, the third most populated city in the UAE, is known for its fast-paced lifestyle and crowded streets. Although the government has taken significant steps to improve traffic management and parking systems, finding a parking space can still be challenging due to the city’s constant activity. Whether you’re heading to a shopping mall, a business district, or a popular tourist attraction in Dubai, securing a parking spot could take time. Fortunately, RTA has developed an efficient solution for car owners—SMS parking.
This innovative system allows drivers to pay for parking through SMS, eliminating the need for cash or a physical parking meter. It’s a convenient way to pay for parking on the go. By sending a simple text message, you can easily park your car without the trouble of searching for loose change or worrying about expired tickets. In this article from Lookinsure mag, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using the Dubai parking SMS system, from how it works to the various benefits it offers.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. How do I pay parking in Dubai by SMS?
To pay for parking in Dubai via SMS, send a message to 7275 (PARK) in this format: <plate number> <plate code> <zone number> <duration in hours> (e.g., A12345 01 345B 2). You’ll get a confirmation SMS with your parking details, and the amount will be charged to your phone balance.
2. What is the non-Dubai car parking SMS format?
For non-Dubai registered cars, use this format: <plate code> <plate number> <zone number> <duration> and send it to 7275 (PARK). You’ll receive a confirmation message, and the fee will be deducted from your mobile credit or postpaid account.
3. How to put parking through SMS in Dubai for Abu Dhabi cars?
To pay for parking for an Abu Dhabi-registered car in Dubai, send a text message with the Dubai parking SMS format to 7275 (PARK). This format is: <plate code> <plate number> <zone number> <duration in hours>. You’ll get a confirmation with parking details.
4. How to pay parking by WhatsApp in Dubai?
Currently, there is no official option to pay for parking via WhatsApp in Dubai. The SMS service remains the most reliable method for paying parking fees.
5. What is the best app to pay parking in Dubai?
The best apps for paying parking in Dubai are the RTA’s Dubai Drive and RTA Dubai apps. These official apps allow you to easily pay for parking, check spaces, and manage your sessions.
6. How do I pay for parking in Dubai for a rental car?
You can pay for a rental car’s parking using SMS or the RTA apps. Send an SMS to 7275 with the car’s plate number, code, zone, and duration, just like you would for any other vehicle.
What is mParking Dubai?
M-Parking, or mobile parking, is a cashless parking solution that allows drivers to pay for their parking in Dubai through SMS. This system is part of the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) services and has simplified the way people find parking in the city. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you can register your car and use your mobile phone to pay for parking without needing to download any apps.
MParking works for both Dubai-registered vehicles and vehicles from other Emirates. If you regularly drive around Dubai, this service is incredibly beneficial, as it helps you avoid parking violations and hefty fines.
Benefits of Using Dubai SMS Parking
Dubai parking SMS offers certain benefits that make it a popular option for car owners in the city. Firstly, it’s convenient. You don’t need to carry cash or deal with a payment machine. All you need is your mobile phone. Secondly, the system is quick and easy to use, requiring just a few seconds to send a text message. Additionally, you can extend your parking time via SMS without having to return to your car, making sure you don’t get a parking fine.
The Dubai parking SMS system sends a confirmation text once your parking payment is successful, giving you peace of mind. You can also receive a reminder before your parking time expires, allowing you to extend the duration if necessary. Finally, the system is accessible to both Dubai-registered vehicles and cars with plates from other Emirates, including Abu Dhabi and Ajman.
Steps to Send Parking SMS in Dubai
Sending a parking SMS in Dubai is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:
- Open the SMS app on your mobile phone.
- The Dubai parking SMS format is quite simple, type your vehicle’s plate number, followed by a space, the parking zone code, another space, and the duration of your parking in hours. If you need help figuring out which parking zone is the closest, read our guide to parking zones in Dubai.
- Send the SMS to the Dubai parking SMS number 7275.
For example, if you have a Dubai plate number ABC1234 and you’re parking in Zone A for 2 hours, your text message would look like this: ABC1234 A 2. Once you send the SMS, you will receive a confirmation message stating that your parking session has begun.
Example of the Dubai Parking SMS Format
The SMS format for Dubai parking depends on the Emirate where your car is registered. Here’s a quick example of how to send an SMS for a car with a Dubai plate:
For a Dubai-registered car:
- Type the plate number followed by the parking zone and the duration of your stay.
- Example of a Dubai parking SMS code: D12345 A 2 (Plate number D12345, parking in Zone A for 2 hours)
For non-Dubai plates, you’ll need to include the Emirate code:
- Example for Abu Dhabi cars: AUH12345 A 2
How to Register for Dubai SMS Parking
Before you can use Dubai’s SMS parking service, you need to ensure your vehicle is registered with the RTA. This can be done either by visiting the RTA’s website or using the Dubai Drive app. Registering your car enables you to take advantage of all RTA services, including Mparking.
After registration, you’ll be ready to use the SMS parking system. The good news is that even visitors or cars with plates from other Emirates, such as Abu Dhabi or Sharjah, can easily use this service.
How to Use SMS Parking in Dubai?
To use SMS parking in Dubai, all you need is your mobile phone. Here’s how to use it:
- Park your car in a designated parking zone.
- Check the signage near your parking space to identify the zone code.
- Send an SMS with your car plate number, the zone code, and the number of hours you want to park.
- Wait for the confirmation message that your parking session has started.
How to Pay for Parking in Dubai via SMS
For access to Dubai paid parking SMS service, simply send a text message to 7275, the Dubai SMS parking number, with the following information:
- Plate number
- Parking zone code
- Duration of parking (in hours)
Dubai parking SMS example: ABC1234 B 3 means you’re parking a car with plate ABC1234 in Zone B for 3 hours. After sending the SMS, you’ll receive a confirmation message from the RTA, confirming that your payment has been processed.
How to Pay for Parking by SMS in Dubai for Other Emirates?
If your car is registered in another Emirate, such as Abu Dhabi or Ajman, you can still use the Dubai SMS parking system. The process is similar to that of Dubai-registered vehicles, but you’ll need to include the Emirate code before your plate number. For example, an Abu Dhabi-registered car would send an SMS like this: AUH12345 C 1.
Here is a complete list of emirate codes for SMS parking in Dubai.
| Emirate Code | Emirate |
| AUH | Abu Dhabi |
| SHJ | Sharjah |
| AJM | Ajman |
| UAQ | Umm Al Quwain |
| RAK | Ras Al Khaimah |
| FUJ | Fujairah |
| KSA | Saudi Arabia |
| KWT | Kuwait |
| BAH | Bahrain |
| OMN | Oman |
Another thing that comes with insurance processes is understanding black points in Dubai or any other emirate you live in. By the way, if you’re living in Dubai or go there a lot, try finding a quote from car insurance companies in Dubai to have an easier process.
Dubai SMS Paid Parking Timings and Fees
Paid parking zones in Dubai typically operate from 8 AM to 10 PM, but the specific timings and fees can vary depending on the area. In commercial zones, parking may be free on Fridays and public holidays, while residential zones might have different timings. Always check the parking signs in your area for exact details.
The fees for Dubai paid parking zones also vary by location. In general, you’ll find the following categories:
- Zone A (commercial areas): AED 4 per hour
- Zone B (non-commercial areas): AED 2 per hour
- Zone C (residential areas): AED 2 per hour
How to Extend Parking Time in Dubai via SMS
If your parking session is about to expire and you need more time, you can easily extend it via SMS. Simply send another SMS with the same format as before, specifying the additional time you need. For example, if your original parking session was for 2 hours and you need another hour, send a new SMS with your plate number, parking zone, and 1 hour as the duration.
Car parking in Dubai, as with any big city, is sometimes a challenge; so, read this quick and complete guide and you’ll never have to worry about it.
Conditions for Dubai SMS Parking Service
There are a few conditions to keep in mind when using the SMS parking service in Dubai:
- Ensure you send the SMS before leaving your car to avoid fines.
- You will receive a confirmation SMS from the RTA when your payment is successful.
- If you fail to extend your parking time, you may be fined for overstaying.
- The SMS service works for cars registered in Dubai and other Emirates, but always use the correct format for your plate.
Conclusion
Dubai’s SMS parking system has simplified parking for both residents and visitors, making it easier to pay for parking on the go. With just a quick SMS, you can secure a parking spot, extend your stay, and avoid the hassle of parking tickets. Whether you drive a car registered in Dubai or another Emirate, the process is simple, fast, and convenient. As long as you follow the correct format and keep an eye on your parking time, you can enjoy stress-free parking in the city.
