How to Pay for Parking in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s parking system, known as MAWAQiF, is managed by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC). This guide provides detailed information on all the available payment methods for parking in Abu Dhabi, based on official MAWAQiF documentation.

1. Cash Payment

Cash payments for parking in Abu Dhabi typically involve using the MAWAQiF payment machines located throughout the city. Here’s how to use this method:

• Locate a MAWAQiF payment machine near your parking spot (these are typically blue machines positioned along streets with paid parking)
• Insert cash directly into the machine
• Enter your vehicle’s license plate number using the keypad
• Select the desired parking duration
• The machine will process your payment and issue a receipt
• You don’t need to display the receipt in your vehicle as the system is electronically linked to your license plate
• Keep the receipt for your records in case of any disputes

Cash payments are convenient for one-time visitors or those who don’t regularly use parking services in the city.

2. Darb Application

The Darb application is the official mobile app for transportation services in Abu Dhabi, including parking payments. Here’s a detailed guide on using the Darb app:

Setting Up the Darb App:

• Download the Darb app from your device’s app store (available for both iOS and Android)
• Create an account using your email or phone number
• Complete your profile with the required information
• Register your vehicle(s) by entering the license plate number and other details

Using the App for Parking:

• Open the app when you park your vehicle
• Select the “Parking” service from the main menu
• Enter your vehicle’s license plate (or select from previously registered vehicles)
• Choose your current location or enter the parking zone code visible on nearby parking signs
• Select your desired parking duration
• Choose your preferred payment method (credit/debit card, account balance, etc.)
• Confirm and pay
• You’ll receive a digital receipt and confirmation

Additional App Features:

• Extend parking time remotely before your current session expires
• Set up notifications to alert you before your parking time ends
• View your parking history and receipts
• Add multiple vehicles to your account
• Top up your account balance for future parking sessions

The document mentions that instructional videos are available for using the Darb app, suggesting users should check the official ITC website for these resources.

3. Rechargeable Card

The MAWAQiF rechargeable card is a prepaid card system specifically designed for parking payments in Abu Dhabi. Here’s how it works:

Obtaining a Rechargeable Card:

• Visit an authorized MAWAQiF service center or ITC customer service center
• Complete the application form
• Pay the card issuance fee (if applicable)
• Receive your personalized MAWAQiF card

Using the Rechargeable Card:

• Top up your card with credit at authorized service centers, certain ATMs, or through the Darb app
• When parking, visit the nearest MAWAQiF payment machine
• Insert or tap your card (depending on the machine type)
• Enter your vehicle license plate number
• Select your desired parking duration
• The machine will deduct the appropriate amount from your card balance
• A receipt will be issued as confirmation

Benefits of the Rechargeable Card:

• Convenient for regular parkers
• No need to carry cash
• Easy to track parking expenses
• Can be used for multiple vehicles
• Reloadable at multiple locations

4. Direct Mobile Phone Payment

This method allows you to pay for parking using your mobile phone service, with charges typically added to your phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance. Here’s how to use it:

SMS Payment Process:

• Note your vehicle’s license plate number and the parking zone code (usually displayed on nearby signs)
• Compose an SMS in the required format (typically license plate number, space, zone code, space, duration in hours)
• Send the SMS to the designated short code (typically 3009, but verify from local signage)
• You’ll receive a confirmation SMS with details of your parking session
• The parking fee will be added to your mobile phone bill or deducted from your prepaid balance

Example SMS Format:

• For a vehicle with license plate “12345” parking in zone “A123” for 2 hours, the SMS might be: “12345 A123 2”

Extending Parking Time:

• To extend your parking duration, send another SMS with the same format but indicating only the additional time needed
• The system will recognize your vehicle and extend the existing parking session

Note that this service may require activation with your mobile service provider, and standard SMS rates may apply in addition to the parking fee.

5. MAWAQiF Payment Machines

MAWAQiF payment machines are automated kiosks located throughout Abu Dhabi that accept various payment methods. Here’s a detailed guide on using them:

Locating MAWAQiF Machines:

• MAWAQiF machines are typically blue in color and installed at regular intervals on streets with paid parking
• Look for them near entrances to parking zones or at central locations within parking areas

Using the Payment Machine:

1. Approach the machine and select your preferred language
2. Enter your vehicle’s license plate number using the keypad
3. Select the type of parking you need (standard or premium, depending on where you’re parked)
4. Choose your desired parking duration
5. The machine will display the total amount due
6. Insert the required amount using one of the following methods:
   • Cash (coins and/or notes, depending on the machine)
   • Credit or debit card (insert or tap, depending on the machine)
   • MAWAQiF rechargeable card
7. The machine will process your payment and issue a receipt
8. Keep the receipt for your records

Important Notes About Payment Machines:

• Some machines may not give change, so have exact amounts ready if paying with cash
• The receipt doesn’t need to be displayed in your vehicle as the system is electronically linked to your license plate
• If a machine is out of order, look for another nearby or use an alternative payment method
• The machines typically have instructions in multiple languages including Arabic and English

By understanding these various payment methods, you can choose the most convenient option for your parking needs in Abu Dhabi, whether you’re a resident or visitor to the city.