How to Parking In Dubai By SMS
Did you know that Dubai does more than 2 million SMS parking transactions each month? The Road and Transport Authority of Dubai (RTA) has made parking extremely easy through its SMS parking system.
And, if you do not know how to use it and are afraid of fines, this article will guide you through all the steps. When you live in Dubai or simply stay in the city as a tourist, it is possible to save time and avoid stress and extra fees by learning how to park in Dubai via SMS.
Why SMS Parking Is Useful
The SMS parking is fast and does not involve any paperwork since the car owner can pay without using coins or meters. You do not have to walk to a machine and pay only for the necessary time.
It is so simple to extend parking via SMS and get an alert before parking expires. It comes in handy, especially in places like Downtown Dubai and Business Bay, where the meter may be unavailable.
Who Can Use SMS Parking in Dubai?
SMS parking can be used by any person who has a registered vehicle and a UAE mobile number with Etisalat or Du. This covers Dubai-plated cars, cars of other emirates such as Ajman and Sharjah, and visitors with vehicles rented, as long as the number of the plate is with them.
International SIM cards are not supported, however, and you must have a mobile number with sufficient credit to send the SMS. With these, you would not be able to access the service.
Step-by-Step Guide to SMS Parking
Step 1: Locate Zone Code – It is displayed on a post on a parking sign (e.g. 123A) or meter.
Step 2: Open your SMS app – Use a UAE-registered SIM.
Step 3: Type the message, as shown above.
Step 4: Send 7275 – That is the RTA SMS parking number.
Step 5: Get confirmation -You will receive a confirmation message of the time and expiry.
Parking Duration and Renewal by SMS
- According to the zone, one can park for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- You’ll receive an SMS reminder 10 minutes before expiry.
- The reminder includes a reply of Y to confirm the renewal or a new SMS.
- You are allowed to renew up to the maximum time of that zone.
Note: You cannot renew in a zone that does not give extra time (check signage).
Charges and Payment Methods
The SMS service fee comprises parking costs and telecom charges.
- Zone A (commercial): AED 4/hour
- Zone B (non-commercial): AED 2/hour
- SMS Service Fee: 30 fils per SMS
Bills are automatically deducted from your prepaid account or added to your postpaid bill.
Common Errors and How to Fix Them
Invalid Format:
Errors in typing or incorrect sequence (e.g.123A A12345) will fail.
Unregistered Plate:
Make sure that your plate is properly connected to the RTA system.
Expired SIM / No Credit:
In case your mobile has no balance or it is deactivated, you will receive an error.
Wait for the SMS confirmation at all times. Your parking isn’t registered if you don’t get it.
SMS Parking Code Format by Emirate
| Emirate | Plate Format | SMS Format Example |
| Dubai | A12345 | A12345 123A 1 |
| Sharjah | SH12345 | SH12345 123A 2 |
| Abu Dhabi | AD12345 | AD12345 123A 1 |
| Ajman | AJ12345 | AJ12345 123A 3 |
Note: All SMS go to 7275 (PARK).
Conclusion
One of the most convenient ways of dealing with parking is to use SMS to pay to park in Dubai. All you need to do is keep the right format in mind, be aware of the zone code and have an active mobile number. With a text, you can legally park and do whatever you want in the city without worrying.
FAQs
Can I use SMS to cancel parking?
No, it cannot be cancelled once it has been sent and verified.
What happens if I go into the incorrect zone?
You might be fined. Verify the code twice at all times.
Can I park in disabled zones using SMS?
No, those areas are free of fees but do require special permits.
