The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) presents a variety of user-friendly methods for settling parking charges in its public zones throughout the UAE. Initially, the cash payment option is available at Park Meters, strategically positioned in or adjacent to the parking areas. After depositing coins or banknotes, a ticket is issued and should be collected from the compartment below. This ticket must then be prominently displayed on the dashboard of the vehicle to aid RTA inspectors during their rounds.
Parking rates are determined by the specific zone, with the starting fee set at AED 2 per hour in Dubai. To use this option, simply feed the meter with two Dirham coins, confirm the transaction by pressing the OK button, and remember to place the generated ticket where it's visible under the windshield.
Moreover, the RTA offers a digital payment method via an SMS service, enabling payments directly from your mobile phone. This process involves sending a text to 7275 that includes the vehicle's "Plate number," the "Parking zone" code, and the "duration of stay" in hours.
For example, to park a vehicle bearing the license plate Q46126 in zone 316F for a duration of three hours, the SMS should be formatted as "Q46126 316F 2". You will then receive a confirmation text, which also includes a warning as the parking time approaches its end. This approach offers a seamless and eco-friendly alternative to traditional payment methods, keeping you in line with the UAE's parking regulations while facilitating mobility.