Whether you own a personal vehicle or have rented a car in Dubai, you’ve probably struggled at some point with finding the right parking space and figuring out how to pay the parking fees. While parking might not be an issue in smaller and less crowded cities, it’s a daily concern in Dubai. So, what are the current parking rules in Dubai? How much does parking cost per hour or per month? Is there any free parking in Dubai? And how can you save money on parking?
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know about parking fees in Dubai, types of parking zones, payment methods, and money-saving tips for both short-term and long-term stays.
Different Types of Parking Zones in Dubai
Commercial Parking Zones in Dubai
Dubai’s malls and commercial centers are some of the city’s most popular areas, and the surrounding parking areas are classified as commercial zones. These zones are divided into Zone A and Zone B.
Zone A
Zone A includes the central, high-traffic commercial and entertainment districts such as Downtown Dubai and Dubai Mall. These areas are more expensive due to their strategic location.
| Duration | Fee |
| 30 minutes | AED 2 |
| 1 hour | AED 4 |
| 2 hours | AED 8 |
| 3 hours | AED 12 |
| 4 hours | AED 16 |
Zone B
Zone B covers areas like Business Bay and DIFC, designed for longer parking stays and at slightly lower rates.
| Duration | Fee |
| 1 hour | AED 3 |
| 2 hours | AED 6 |
| 3 hours | AED 9 |
| 4 hours | AED 12 |
| 5 hours | AED 15 |
| 24 hours | AED 20 |
Non-Commercial Parking Zones
These zones are located in residential neighborhoods, public roads, tourist spots, and beaches—offering more budget-friendly parking rates. These zones are active from 8 AM to 10 PM, every day of the week.
Zone C (Residential Areas)
| Duration | Fee |
| 1 hour | AED 2 |
| 2 hours | AED 5 |
| 3 hours | AED 8 |
| 4 hours | AED 11 |
Zone D (Lowest-Cost Residential)
| Duration | Fee |
| 1 hour | AED 2 |
| 2 hours | AED 4 |
| 3 hours | AED 5 |
| 4 hours | AED 7 |
| 24 hours | AED 10 |
Premium & Special Parking Zones
| Zone | 1h | 2h | 3h | 4h |
| E (Al Barsha and Al Quoz areas) | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 |
| F (all the Tecom areas) | 2 | 5 | 8 | 11 |
| G (Downtown Dubai area) | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 |
| H (Dubai Silicon Oasis) | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 |
| I (Hor Al Anz and Abu Hail) | 10 | 20 | 30 | 40 |
| J (Al Karama and Madinat Dubai) | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 |
| K (Jumeirah Lake Tower) | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 |
Dubai Mall Parking Fees
Dubai’s major malls typically offer free parking for short durations, but charges escalate quickly after that.
| Duration | Fee |
| 0–4 hours | Free |
| 4–5 hours | AED 20 |
| 5–6 hours | AED 60 |
| 6–7 hours | AED 80 |
| 7–8 hours | AED 100 |
| 8–12 hours | AED 500 |
| 12–24 hours | AED 1000 |
On weekends, Dubai Mall offers free parking for the first 6 hours, after which charges apply.
Other similar malls include Mall of the Emirates, City Walk, and City Centre Deira.
Dubai Airport Parking Fees
Different rates apply for short- and long-term parking at DXB terminals.
Terminal 1
Premium (A)
- 5 min: AED 5
- 30 min: AED 30
- 1 day: AED 125
Economy (B)
- 1 hour: AED 25
- 1 day: AED 85
Terminal 2
Premium
- 1 hour: AED 30
- 1 day: AED 125
Economy
- 1 hour: AED 15
- 1 day: AED 70
Terminal 3
- 5 min: AED 5
- 1 day: AED 125
How to Pay for Parking in Dubai
Dubai offers multiple digital and cashless options for paying your parking fees:
- Parking Meters: Insert coins (dirhams) in machines near the parking bay.
- RTA Dubai App: Pay digitally and receive instant confirmation via SMS.
- WhatsApp Payment: Message your license plate and zone code to RTA’s official WhatsApp number.
- SMS: Text the format [plate number] [space] [zone code] [space] [duration] to 7275.
- NFC Tap: Tap your card or phone if the machine supports contactless payment.
Where to Find Free Parking in Dubai
Looking for ways to save money? Here are free parking options available throughout the city:
- Old Residential Areas: Places like Al Raffa, Al Karama, and Deira often have free street parking.
- Timed Zones: Parking is free after 10 PM to 8 AM, and on Fridays/public holidays in most paid zones.
- Malls and Attractions: Many places offer 2–4 hours free for shoppers or diners.
- Park & Ride Lots: Locations near metro stations offer free parking to promote public transportation.
Avoiding Parking Fines in Dubai
- Always pay your parking fee using a valid method.
- Double-check signs—some streets prohibit parking even within zones.
- Don’t block driveways or pedestrian crossings.
- Use apps to set reminders and renew your parking ticket on time.
- Avoid parking in disabled or VIP areas without proper permits.
Monthly Parking Passes in Dubai
For long-term residents, RTA offers monthly parking subscriptions for office workers, frequent drivers, and long-term renters.
- Zone A & B: From AED 500/month
- Zone C & D: From AED 250–350/month
- Premium Zones (E–I): Custom pricing
Find the Right Parking Zone in Dubai
Parking in Dubai may seem complex at first, but once you understand the system, it's easy to manage. With this 2025 guide, you can now choose the most affordable and convenient parking option based on your destination and schedule. Whether you're commuting daily or just enjoying a few days with a rental car, staying informed helps you avoid fines and control your costs.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the parking fees in Dubai in 2025?
Parking fees in Dubai start at AED 2 per hour in residential areas and go up to AED 10 per hour in premium zones. Monthly passes range from AED 250 to AED 500 depending on the zone.
Is parking free in Dubai at night?
Yes, parking is generally free from 10 PM to 8 AM in most paid zones across the city, excluding special or premium zones.
What is the cheapest parking zone in Dubai?
Zone D is the most affordable, with rates as low as AED 2 for 1 hour and AED 10 for 24 hours.
Do I need to pay for parking if I rent a car in Dubai?
Yes, rental cars do not include free parking. You must pay the same RTA fees as local vehicles.
Is it hard to find parking in Dubai for rental cars?
In busy areas, parking can be limited. However, most malls, hotels, and tourist spots offer dedicated spaces, often with valet options.
Can I use the RTA app to pay for parking with a rental car?
Yes, just register the rental car’s license plate in the RTA app and pay like a regular vehicle.
Can I get fined if I park a rental car incorrectly in Dubai?
Yes. Any parking fines during your rental period will be charged to you, often with an additional admin fee by the rental company.
Is parking included when renting a car from Dubai Airport?
No, you’ll need to pay airport parking fees if you pick up or drop off a car there. Some rental companies offer short grace periods.
