Abu Dhabi Parking Guide Areas, Fees, and Permit Information

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) is in charge of Abu Dhabi's public parking system. Various rules depend on the zone, area type, and the type of permit. Mawaqif is responsible for the paid parking throughout the emirate.

The payment methods are SMS, mobile application, and parking machines. This parking guide outlines parking zones, charges, applications for parking permits, and fines.

Overview of Abu Dhabi Parking System

The Abu Dhabi parking system consists of public and private parking. ITC has implemented its public parking system under the Mawaqif programme. There is no private parking in the shared area; it is managed separately by commercial buildings, hotels, and malls. Eligibility and pricing are set by parking zones. Understanding your zone type prevents fines and saves time.

Types of Parking in Abu Dhabi

1. Standard Public Parking

Most residential and commercial property sites have standard parking. The most basic type of parking is in Abu Dhabi Island and on the mainland. Toll rates are lower in premium zones. Paid hours are on weekdays and Saturdays.

• AED 2 for an hour
• AED 15 for 24 hours of parking

2. Premium Public Parking

High-traffic areas with high demand are Premium zones. Areas include CBDs & major retail corridors. The hourly rate is more expensive. These areas are designed to control traffic in congested areas.

• AED 4 an hour

3. Residential Parking

Residential zones are for residents only and require permits to occupy the zone. In these areas, unmarked cars are ticketed. The residents/holders of the residences must obtain a valid permit from the Mawaqif website. Parking in the buildings or districts may be subject to visitor parking rules.

• Free for UAE nationals living in either apartments or villas

If you are not a UAE national and reside in an apartment or villa:

• First car: AED 800
• Second car: AED 1,200

4. Airport Parking

There are lots of parking options available at Abu Dhabi Airport for you, whether you want short-term or long-term parking. There are large covered parking areas for temporary parking at Terminal A.

• 6 – 15 Minutes: AED 15
• 16 – 30 Minutes: AED 25
• 31 Minutes – 2 Hours: AED 35

5. Multi-Storey Parking

Multi-storey car parks are available, but covered, near shopping centres and government buildings. In most places, they're working on a 24/7 basis. They can be used in the summer months because of the shade.

• AED 2 an hour

Abu Dhabi Parking Zones and Areas

1. Abu Dhabi Island Parking Zones

There are also a variety of standard, premium, and residential parking zones in Abu Dhabi Island. It is available in large quantities in the outer districts and is limited in the vicinity of the Corniche and central districts. Peak Hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

2. Al Khalidiyah Parking

Al Khalidiyah is a residential/commercial area that has mixed-zone parking. There is some street parking, which may become congested during high-demand periods. Permit zones for residences on multiple blocks. Demand is greater during the evening, close to restaurants and cafes.

3. Al Zahiyah Parking

Al Zahiyah is also known as the Tourist Club Area and comes with both a premium and a standard area. During the working days, it is quite busy with offices and retail outlets. There are parking machines and an app for paying for parking. Park on the streets before the others.

4. Al Reem Island Parking

There are residential and visitor parking lots designated in Al Reem Island developments. The majority of car parking will be in gated areas or multi-storey car parks. Street parking is available, but limited. Community permits should be applied for by the residents.

5. Al Danah Parking

Al Danah is a combination of residential and commercial areas. Street parking is available on most of the roads. Some streets are closed to all vehicles with a residential permit.

6. Al Mushrif Parking

The area of Al Mushrif is mainly residential and has lower parking density. Street parking is fairly available. There are residential permit zones in the areas adjacent to villas and apartment clusters. There is an increase in demand close to schools at drop-off and pick-up times.

Parking Fees and Timings

Standard Paid Parking Hours

Zones that are standard hours are paid between 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM from Monday through Saturday. The parking is free outside of the hours in most of the regular parking zones.

Premium Parking Hours

Premium zones could have longer paid hours, which are frequently extended to midnight. Times are subject to change by location! Please look at the parking area signage.

Free Parking Periods

• Sundays in most public parking areas
• Public holidays as announced by Abu Dhabi authorities
• After 10:00 PM in standard zones on most weekdays
• Before 8:00 AM on any day in standard zones

Residential Parking Permits

1. Who Can Apply

Residents living in areas with designated permit zones can apply. You must provide proof of residence in the applicable zone. Permits are not transferable between zones or vehicles without reapplication.

Required Documents

• Valid Emirates ID
• Passport or ID card
• Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya) that matches the applicant
• A copy of the passport for non-UAE citizens.

2. Permit Fees

Commonly issued for a period of one year. Reminders to renew by SMS and/or email. The Mawaqif Online Portal or smart application can be used to renew before expiry. Confirm current fees on the Mawaqif portal.

Rules for Multiple Vehicles

• Each vehicle requires a separate permit
• Additional permits for the same address may require further approval
• Visitor parking is limited in permit zones and must follow signage
• Permits must be linked to the registered vehicle plate number

How to Apply for an Abu Dhabi Parking Permit

1. Visit the Mawaqif portal at mawaqif.abudhabi.ae
2. Create or log in to your account using UAE Pass or registered credentials
3. Select 'Residential Permit' and enter your zone and vehicle details
4. Upload required documents as listed in the application form
5. Submit and pay the annual permit fee online by card or digital wallet

Offline Application Options

Visit an ITC service centre or Mawaqif customer service point. Bring all original documents. Staff will process the application and confirm the permit within a few business days.

How to Renew a Permit

• Log in to your Mawaqif account online or through the app
• Go to 'My Permits' and select the permit due for renewal
• Confirm updated vehicle and address details
• Pay the renewal fee and save your confirmation

How to pay and avoid fines

1. SMS Parking Payment

Call the number on the parking sign on a cell phone. Enter plate number, zone code, and duration. An SMS is sent for confirmation. Give extra time through an SMS reminder before the end date.

2. Mobile Application

Install the Mawaqif App on your iOS or Android device. Enter the plate number of your car and choose the parking area. Select the length of time and payment via saved card or digital wallet. The app will remind you before your time runs out.

3. Digital Wallet and Online Payment

• Apple Pay and Google Pay are accepted through the Mawaqif app
• Online payment is available via the official Mawaqif website
• Credit and debit cards are accepted on both platforms

4. Parking Machines

Parking machines are installed throughout paid zones. Insert coins, notes, or use card payment. Select your zone and duration. Print and hang the ticket where it can be seen in your car.

Abu Dhabi Parking Fines and Violations

Closing In

There are different zones, times, and permits for the parking system in Abu Dhabi. For people who commute daily or are just a one-time tourist of the city, you know the rules, and this can save you money and time. Make payments and sanctions with the Mawaqif app. Before travelling to busy areas, always check the latest news from official sources.

FAQs about Abu Dhabi Parking