Sharjah parking zones are divided into public paid areas, free periods, and special high-demand zones, each with unique rules and fees. Managed by Sharjah Municipality, the system charges AED 2–5/hour depending on location, with free parking on Fridays, holidays, and overnight (10 PM – 8 AM). Ignoring zone codes or timings risks fines up to AED 500. Below, we decode Sharjah’s parking zones, long-term permits (including AED 1,000 for 6 months), and how to stay compliant.
Types of Sharjah Parking Zones
Sharjah’s parking system, managed by Sharjah Municipality, ensures organized traffic flow and fair access to parking spaces. Paid zones are color-coded (blue, pink, yellow) and regulated with clear signage. The most common payment method is SMS, but fines (AED 100–500) apply for violations like overstaying or unpaid sessions.
- Paid Public Parking Zones: these marked zones which are available in public areas and require users to pay fees during specific hours. These zones are further divided into:
- A Zones: which are located in more busy areas such as downtown and near highly-frequented places such as popular malls and government buildings. These parking areas are of course more expensive than B zones.
- B Zones are standard parking spots in areas with less traffic such as residential areas. Parking fees in B zones are less pricey compared to A zones.
- Free Parking Zones: these zones which as the name suggests do not require users to pay a fee are generally found in places with little to no traffic such as residential and suburban areas.
- Residential Parking Zones: in highly populated residential areas there are designated parking zones that are only reserved for residents. Parking in these zones requires a permit which is only issued for people living in the vicinity of the zone,
- No-Parking Zones: areas where parking is prohibited as it might affect the flow of traffic or obstruct emergency services.
Timings and Fees in Sharjah Parking Zones
| Zone Type | Hourly Rate | Daily Cap | Free Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | AED 2 | AED 8 | 10 PM – 8 AM, Fridays |
| Special | AED 5 | AED 15 | Limited to 2 hours only |
Payment Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM (Saturday–Thursday).
Sharjah Long-Term Parking Permits (Monthly & 6 Months)
What Is a Long-Term Parking Permit?
- Purpose: For residents or frequent parkers needing consistent access.
- Coverage: Specific zones (e.g., residential areas like Al Nahda).
Sharjah Parking Fee for 6 Months
- Cost: AED 1,750 (standard zones).
- Validity: Covers 6 months from issue date.
How to Apply for Sharjah Long Term Parking
- Documents: Emirates ID, vehicle registration, tenancy contract.
- Apply Online: Via Sharjah Municipality Portal.
- Renewal: Repeat the process before expiry.
Note: The Sharjah parking fee for 6 months is non-refundable. Permits do not cover special zones.
Payment Guide: Sharjah Parking Zones
SMS Parking (Step-by-Step)
- Format:
Plate Number, Duration, Zone Code(e.g.,SHJ123, 2, A1). - Send to: 5566 (AED 2/hour deducted from prepaid balance).
Parking Meters
- Accept coins or prepaid cards.
- Available in blue and pink zones.
Online Payment & Apps for Sharjah Parking Zones
- Use the Sharjah Parking app or Municipality portal for permits and top-ups.
Paid Sharjah Parking Zones Locations
As mentioned before, in busy areas in Sharjah car parking usually is not free and one is required to use paid parking zones which vary in price depending on the area. Parking in A zones for instance which are available in highly congested areas is more expensive than B zones which are usually located in areas with less traffic.
| Zone | Description | Areas Covered | Parking Rates | Parking Hours |
| Zone A | High-traffic commercial areas | Al Sur, Al Ilya, Al Nabba | AED 2/hour | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 10 PM |
| Zone B | Busy residential areas | Al Mahta, Al Shahba, Al Musala | AED 2/hour | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 10 PM |
| Zone C | Industrial areas | Al Qudaiba, Al Munakh, Al Yarmouk | AED 2/hour | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 10 PM |
| Zone D | Central areas | Al Khan, Umm Al Tarfa, Du Dang | AED 2/hour | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 10 PM |
| Zone E | Commercial hubs | Al Jubail, Al Mara, Al Marija | AED 2/hour | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 10 PM |
| Zone F | Mixed-use areas | Al Shawahen, Al Nasirya, Maysaloon | AED 2/hour | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 10 PM |
| Zone G | Industrial zones | Industrial Areas 4, 5, 6 | AED 2/hour | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 10 PM |
| Zone H | Central business districts | Al Majaz | AED 2/hour | Sat-Thu: 8 AM – 10 PM |
Free parking in Sharjah
Although paid parking in Sharjah is the most common way to find a spot for your car, there are places in the city where you can park your car without having to pay a fee. These places include:
| Time | Days | Details |
| 10:00 PM – 8:00 AM | Sat-Thu | Free parking outside paid parking hours |
| All Day | Fridays & Public Holidays | Free parking throughout the city |
Where to park for free in Sharjah?
- Residential Areas: Al Nahda, Al Majaz, Al Qasimia
- Tourist Destinations: Al Qasba, Sharjah Aquarium
- Shopping Malls: Festival City Mall, Ibn Battuta Mall, Mercato Mall
Airport Sharjah Parking Zones
Sharjah Airport offers different solutions to parking for those passengers who like to use their own cars upon their arrival, or seek Sharjah long term parking depending on the duration of your trip.
Short-Term Airport Parking Fees
Sharjah parking zones designated for short-term parking are located near the terminal and are ideal for those who are there just to drop off or pick up a passenger. For this mode of parking, you will be charged by the hour.
| Duration | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| 1 Hour | 16 |
| 2 Hours | 27 |
| 3 Hours | 37 |
| 4 Hours | 48 |
| Each Additional Hour | 11 |
| Day 2 Onwards (per day) | 200 |
| Exceeding 30 Days Penalty | 2000 |
| Lost Ticket Fee | 200 |
Sharjah Long-Term Parking Fees for Airports
Long-term parking is reserved for those who want to go on a trip and prefer to have their car in the lot upon their arrival. Remember to check the updates prices for Sharjah parking fee for 6 months before you leave your car at the airport. This lot is usually farther away from the terminal; however, there are regular buses you can use for transfer.
| Duration | Price (AED) |
|---|---|
| 1 Hour | 16 |
| 2 Hours | 27 |
| 3 Hours | 37 |
| 4 Hours | 48 |
| 4:01 Hours – 24 Hours | 95 |
| Day 2 Onwards (per day) | 95 |
| Exceeding 30 Days Penalty | 2000 |
| Lost Ticket Fee | 200 |
Parking Fines and Violations in Sharjah
- Common Fines:
- Non-payment: AED 150
- Overstaying: AED 200
- Unauthorized zone: AED 500
- How to Pay: Check fines via SMS (send
FINE <Plate Number>to 5566) or online.
Tips for Parking in Busy Areas
- Buy a 6-month permit to avoid daily payments in residential zones.
- Use SMS alerts to renew sessions remotely.
- Avoid Al Rolla Street during rush hours (8–10 AM, 5–7 PM).
Discover Sharjah Parking Zones
Although car parking in Sharjah can be quite a challenge sometimes, there are ways you can make it easier and less stressful. By using online services or through SMS messages, it is now possible to find, reserve, and pay for a parking spot for yourself before getting somewhere. Make sure your car remains protected when parked by checking your car insurance Sharjah validity.
Frequently Answered Questions
1. Are there different parking zones in Sharjah?
Yes, Sharjah has three main parking zones:
1️⃣ Blue Zones: Paid parking (AED 2/hour) in commercial areas like Al Majaz and Al Khan.
2️⃣ Pink Zones: Lower-cost parking (AED 1/hour) in residential neighborhoods.
3️⃣ Special Zones: High-demand areas (AED 5/hour) near hospitals or government offices.
2. What time is parking in Sharjah blue zone?
Parking in the Sharjah blue zone is typically regulated from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Saturday through Thursday. Make sure to adhere to these hours to avoid any fines.
3. Where to park for free in Sharjah??
There are a few areas where you can find free parking in Sharjah, often near parks or suburban areas. However, it’s important to double-check for any temporary restrictions or changes in regulations.
4. How do I pay Sharjah parking fee for 6 months?
Paying for parking in the UAE is available through parking meters, online services, and SMS.
5. How do I pay parking in Sharjah by SMS?
To pay the fees for car parking in Sharjah via SMS, you must send an SMS to 5566 in the format below:
Plate Source + [space] + Plate Number + [space] + Duration (number of hours)
For example: SHJ 5119 2 (SHJ stands for Sharjah)
6. What is the area code for parking in Sharjah?
The area code for parking in Sharjah varies by zone. For specific parking locations, you can usually refer to signs in the respective parking zones or consult local guides for detailed information.
