When Is Parking Free in Dubai? Quick Answer
Public parking in Dubai is free on Sundays (all day) and during official UAE public holidays. This rule applies to most zones managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), allowing drivers to avoid fees on these specific days.
Dubai Parking Schedule and Free Days: A Detailed Timetable
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) manages Dubai’s public parking with a standardized system to simplify navigation for drivers. The official Dubai parking schedule for paid parking runs from Monday to Saturday, generally from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. It’s crucial to pay for parking during these hours in any marked zone to avoid fines.
The best opportunities for savings come from understanding when is parking free in Dubai. All drivers benefit from free parking days, which include every Sunday for a full 24 hours. Additionally, parking is free during all official public holidays, with the RTA confirming the exact dates before major events like Eid al-Fitr or the UAE National Day.
RTA Public Parking Operating Schedule
| Day of the Week | Status and Payment Hours |
| Monday – Saturday | Paid from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
| Sunday | Free (24 hours) |
| Public Holidays | Free (announced by RTA) |
Free Parking on Public Holidays
Confirmed and Expected Holidays with Free Parking
The RTA typically declares free parking for all major UAE public holidays, making city-wide travel more accessible. The expected holidays for 2024 where parking will likely be free include:
- New Year’s Day
- Eid al-Fitr
- Arafat Day and Eid al-Adha
- Islamic New Year
- Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday
- Commemoration Day and UAE National Day
Expert Advice from Renticoπ―
The dates for Islamic holidays are determined by moon sightings and can vary. Always check the official announcements on the RTA website or its mobile app for the most accurate information.
Exceptions and Special Cases: Where Rules May Differ
Rules for Multi-Level Parking Garages
Most multi-level parking structures are privately operated and set their own schedules and fees. Consequently, the RTAβs free parking rules for Sundays and public holidays usually do not apply. Expect to pay for parking in these facilities regardless of the day. From my experience, drivers visiting commercial hubs like Business Bay often discover this distinction, so opting for street parking during free periods is a more cost-effective strategy.
Parking at Shopping Malls (Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, etc.)
Major shopping centers provide a few hours of complimentary parking to attract shoppers. For instance, Dubai Mall typically offers up to four hours free on weekdays, with unlimited free parking on weekends. Mall of the Emirates has a similar policy. It’s essential to check each mall’s official website for their specific terms, as overstaying the complimentary period can result in hefty fees. This is ideal for short trips and errands.
Special Zones (TECOM, Dubai Media City, Deira Fish Market)
Certain specialized zones, such as Zone F in TECOM or areas within Dubai Media City, may feature unique parking codes and tariff structures. The parking area near the Deira Fish Market also has its own regulations, especially during peak hours. However, the overarching rule of free parking on Sundays and public holidays is generally observed in these locations as well. Navigating these zones requires attention to detail, and using the RTA Dubai app can help identify available spots and specific rules efficiently.
Practical Guide: Finding Spots and Avoiding Fines
How to Read Parking Signs in Dubai: A Visual Guide
Understanding Dubai’s parking signs is straightforward once you know what to look for. The signs clearly display a zone code (e.g., 314F), the paid hours, and the tariff. Curbs painted yellow and black indicate that parking is strictly forbidden. A typical sign will show paid hours from Monday to Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
RTA Fines Table for Improper Parking
| Violation | Fine Amount (AED) |
| Failure to pay the parking fee | 150 |
| Exceeding the maximum allowed time | 100 |
| Parking in a prohibited area | 200 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is parking free in Dubai on Fridays?
No. Following the UAE’s transition to a new workweek, paid parking now applies from Monday through Saturday. Friday is a standard paid parking day, while Sunday is the designated free day.
How do I pay for parking in Dubai?
The most common methods include using the official RTA Dubai app, sending an SMS with your zone and plate information to 7275, paying with coins at a parking meter, or using the WhatsApp payment feature.
Do free parking rules apply to residents with parking permits?
Residential parking permits are valid only within the specific residential zone they are issued for. They do not grant free parking in commercial zones or other areas during paid hours.
What is the best app for parking?
The official “RTA Dubai” app is the most reliable and comprehensive tool.
Conclusion: Park Smart and Save Time
To summarize, parking in Dubai is complimentary on Sundays and all public holidays. During the rest of the week, from Monday to Saturday, paid parking is in effect from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Always check the parking signs for zone-specific information and use the official RTA digital tools for seamless payments and updates.
See our other parking guides:
How to Check and Pay Dubai Police Fines Online
Dubai Traffic Fines 2025 Guide
Complete Guide to Fees, Payment, and Changes by RTA
Free Parking in Dubai : The Ultimate Guide to Schedules, Zones, and Rule
