Is Parking Free After 10 pm in Dubai?
As per the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the usual paid parking time in most of the areas is up to 10 pm and after that the parking is free. One way to save money and time is by knowing the period when charges on parking charges are not mandatory, should you visit or spend as much time as possible in Dubai.
The question of many people is whether it is free parking after 10 pm in the whole city. This article analyses the parking schedules, areas, exemptions, and regulations that you should understand to efficiently park your car in Dubai without any difficulties.
Dubai Parking Timings
Dubai boasts of a properly regulated parking sector, which is overseen by RTA. The majority of the parking places in the towns are paid on demand between 8:00 am and 10:00 pm on weekdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Fridays and national holidays are free parking days, although it may not be the case in particular neighborhoods. The times are indicated in the parking machines and on the RTA boards.
Paid vs Free Zones
Dubai is divided into several parking zones:
- A, B, C Zone: Residential and central business districts.
- Zone D: More remote or less busy areas.
- Zone E: Special parking areas like Deira Fish Market.
- Zone F: Tecom and JLT.
- Zone G: Underground or multi-story parking lots.
Each zone has its own pricing and timing rules. In general, the paid parking finishes at 10 pm and turns free until the following morning, otherwise.
Is It Free After 10 pm?
Yup, in the majority of RTA-provided parking areas in the city, parking is free between 10 pm and 8 am the next day. However, this may not apply in:
- Private lots
- Underground facilities
- Special areas with 24/7 paid parking
It is always advisable to use signage or the RTA Smart Parking App to check.
Weekend Parking Rules
- Fridays: Most RTA zones are free all day.
- Saturday: Paid parking resumes unless a public holiday overlaps.
- Public holidays: These are usually considered Fridays where free parking is provided, although it is advisable to enquire through the RTA announcements.
Special Areas & Exceptions
Dubai maintains a 24/7 paid parking to control congestion and traffic at some places. These include:
- Deira Fish Market (Zone E)
- Dubai Marina
- Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa)
City Walk & La Mer
These areas display their 24-hour paid rules. Violations here may result in fines, even after 10 pm.
Parking Fines & Penalties
Parking rules must be observed, and a fine follows, whether it is AED 150 to AED 1000, depending on the offence:
| Violation | Fine (AED) |
| No ticket displayed | 150 |
| Parking in a prohibited area | 200 |
| Exceeding the time limit | 100 |
| Blocking other cars | 500 |
| Parking in a special needs zone without a permit | 1000 |
RTA Parking Hours by Zone
| Zone | Timing | Free After |
| A | 8am – 10pm | 10pm – 8am |
| B | 8am – 10pm | 10pm – 8am |
| C | 8am – 10pm | 10pm – 8am |
| D | 8am – 10pm | 10pm – 8am |
| E | 24/7 Paid | N/A |
| F | 8am – 10pm | 10pm – 8am |
| G | Varies, often 24/7 | Depends |
Note: Timings are subject to RTA changes.
Conclusion
In Dubai, parking is normally free of charge after 10pm, except special or high-intensity areas. Most of the Bus-controlled areas in the world cease charging at 10pm and resume at 8 the following day. However, be sure to check the signage in the zone or even the local area, particularly in tourist areas or some underground parking facilities. Use the RTA Smart App and the online site to keep yourself updated and avoid being involved in fines without a reason.
FAQs
Is it free to park in malls or hotels in Dubai after 10hrs?
No, the privately owned facilities, such as malls or hotels, are free to establish their regulations and can charge on a 24/7 basis.
How can I avoid fines in tricky areas?
Check RTA Smart Parking in the App or on the signs in place.
What if my ticket expires at 10 pm?
You will not have to pay more than 10pm in the standard zones because it is free.