Parking in Dubai 101: SMS Codes, Zones, and How to Avoid Fines

Driving in Dubai is a joy, but parking can feel like solving a puzzle. With new smart sensors, changing tariffs, and a myriad of codes, even long-term residents get confused. As a tourist, a simple parking mistake can lead to unwanted fines that sour your trip.

Whether you are cruising in a rental sedan or a luxury SUV, mastering the RTA parking zones and payment systems is essential. Here is your ultimate 2025 handbook to parking smart, using mParking codes, and saving money with our valet parking guide.

1. Decoding the RTA Parking Zones for 2025

The city is divided into specific RTA parking zones, each with its own price tag and rules. In 2025, the system is evolving into a “Variable Tariff” model, meaning the cost changes based on the time of day.

• Commercial Areas (Zone A & B): These are the busiest RTA parking zones. Located in Deira and Bur Dubai, they have higher turnover.
• Residential Areas (Zone C & D): These RTA parking zones are cheaper but often crowded overnight.
• Premium Zones (Zone I, J, K): Found in Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) and event venues. These RTA parking zones have unique pricing structures.

Understanding the difference between these RTA parking zones is the first step to avoiding penalties. For example, a permit for Zone C is not valid in RTA parking zones marked A. Always check the orange sign on the pavement; it will clearly list which of the RTA parking zones you are standing in. Ignoring these signs is the fastest way to end up paying parking fines Dubai authorities issue.

2. How to Master mParking Codes via SMS

Gone are the days of hunting for coins. The most efficient way to pay is using mParking codes via SMS to the number 7275 (PARK).

The format is simple but strict. To use mParking codes correctly, type:

[Plate Number] [Space] [Zone Code] [Space] [Duration in Hours]

• Example: A54321 335A 1

Using the correct mParking codes is vital. If you make a typo in the mParking codes, you will still be charged, but your car won’t be registered in the system, leading to a fine. We recommend saving your plate number and common mParking codes in your phone notes. Additionally, you can now use WhatsApp for mParking codes to save on SMS fees. Just send the same format to the RTA’s chatbot. Mastering these parking codes ensures you never have to run back to the meter in the heat.

Also Read – Big Relief for Drivers! UAE Announces Lower Fuel Prices for November 2025

3. The Golden Rule: Free Parking on Sundays

For years, Friday was the free day. This has changed. The current rule is free parking on Sundays. This applies to almost all public street parking.

If you plan your shopping trips around free parking on Sundays, you can save significantly. However, be careful: multi-story garage buildings often do not offer free parking on Sundays. 

They run on private meters 24/7. Also, free parking on Sundays is valid for a full 24 hours, unlike public holidays which may have specific shifts.

Many tourists mistakenly pay on Sundays because the machines still accept coins. Don’t be one of them! Enjoy the perk of free parking on Sundays to visit areas like the Gold Souk or Jumeirah Beach. 

Just remember, while free parking on Sundays is a great benefit, finding a spot can be harder due to high demand. We advise arriving early to truly capitalize on free parking on Sundays.

4. A Strategy for Paying Parking Fines Dubai

If you return to your car and find a small slip on the windshield, don’t panic. Paying parking fines Dubai style is a fully digital process. You do not need to visit a police station.

You can handle paying parking fines Dubai charges you directly through the RTA website or the “Dubai Drive” App.

• Tip: If you are driving a rental, let us handle it. We receive a notification instantly. We usually manage the process of paying parking fines Dubai issues on your behalf and deduct them from your deposit.

The most common reason for paying parking fines Dubai visitors face is “overstaying” the paid time by just 10 minutes. The digital scanners are precise.

To avoid the hassle of paying parking fines Dubai later, always enable “SMS Reminders” when you park. It is cheaper to extend your parking for AED 2 than to risk paying parking fines Dubai sets at AED 100 or more.

Also Read – What About Fuel Charges? Who Pays for the Petrol (Gas) in a Rental Car in Dubai?

5. The Ultimate Valet Parking Guide

Sometimes, you just want to feel like a VIP. This is where our valet parking guide comes in. In Dubai, valet is not just for luxury hotels; it is available at most malls and hospitals.

• Mall Valet: According to our valet parking guide, standard valet at Mall of the Emirates or Dubai Mall costs between AED 50–100. However, many “VIP” entrances offer complimentary valet if you hold certain premium credit cards.
• Hotel Validation: A key tip in our valet parking guide is to always stamp your ticket. If you dine at a hotel restaurant, your expensive valet fee is often waived.
• Safety: Using a valet is often safer than street parking. As per our valet parking guide, damages in valet lots are covered by the operator’s insurance.

If you rent a luxury car from us, using valet is often the best way to protect the vehicle from door dings. Follow this valet parking guide to add a touch of luxury to your trip without breaking the bank.

A good valet parking guide always reminds you: keep your ticket safe! Losing it can incur a “lost ticket fee” far higher than the parking cost.

6. Understanding Premium vs. Standard Zones

With the 2025 updates, some RTA parking zones are now designated as “Premium.” These high-demand areas cost more during peak hours. When using mParking codes in these areas, ensure you have enough credit on your phone, as the rate might be AED 6 per hour instead of AED 4.

Even in premium zones, the rule of free parking on Sundays still applies, giving you a chance to visit high-end districts like Downtown Dubai for free once a week.

Also Read – What documents are required to rent a car in Dubai, UAE?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know which zone code to use for mParking?

Look for the orange sign closest to your car. It will display the Zone Code (e.g., 335A) prominently. You must use this exact code in your mParking codes SMS to 7275. Using a code from across the street (which might be a different zone) can result in a fine.

2. Is free parking on Sundays applicable in Dubai Mall?

No. The Dubai Mall and most other mall parking lots are privately managed. They have their own rules (usually free for the first 4 hours). The rule of free parking on Sundays applies strictly to public RTA street parking spots (the ones with orange signs).

3. What is the process for paying parking fines Dubai if I am in a rental car?

You don’t need to worry about the logistics. The fine is linked to the car’s plate. We receive the alert and pay it to clear the vehicle’s file. We will then present you with the receipt and deduct the amount from your security deposit. We handle the task of paying parking fines Dubai so you can focus on your holiday.

4. Can I use WhatsApp instead of SMS for parking?

Yes! You can send the same mParking codes format to the RTA’s WhatsApp number (+971 58 800 9090). This saves you the 30 fils SMS charge. It is a smart addition to any valet parking guide or budget tips list.

5. Are there RTA parking zones where I can park for days?

Yes, RTA parking zones C and D allow for long-term parking, but you must pay the daily fee. However, be careful not to leave the car dirty, as a dirty car can be towed even if parked legally. For long-term storage, ask us about our monthly rental solutions which include maintenance.

6. Does the valet parking guide apply to the airport?

Yes. Dubai Airport offers valet service at Terminal 1 and 3. However, our valet parking guide suggests using the standard “Long Term” parking for trips exceeding 2 days, as airport valet rates are significantly higher than mall rates.

7. When does the “Free Parking” time start at night?

In most RTA parking zones, parking is free from 10:00 PM until 8:00 AM the next morning. This, combined with free parking on Sundays, means you can park Saturday night at 10 PM and not pay anything until Monday morning at 8 AM!

Also Read – Benefits of Renting a Car on a Monthly Basis in Dubai