In Dubai, there are multiple ways to park your car, but finding a spot during peak hours can be challenging. Similarly, there are many ways to pay for parking tickets in the state, but carrying an exact change and waiting in line is a hassle. Fortunately, the Road and Transport Authority has introduced an innovative and efficient way of parking in Dubai called mParking. The mParking service, also known as SMS Parking, allows you to pay for parking by simply sending an SMS.
Thanks to RTA’s innovative mParking services, you can bid farewell to the old traditional payment method for car parking. So, let’s learn how the mParking system works and how to register for this service, ensuring hassle-free car parking in the bustling city.
What is mParking
Dubai’s RTA launched the mParking service, an e-service that allows residents and visitors to pay for parking by sending a text in a set format to 7275 (PARK). You can use this service in all four zones across Dubai without searching for parking meters, coins, or tickets. Thus, your parking fee will be paid efficiently.
Additionally, you can also extend your parking period or cancel your parking spot through an SMS with just your mobile phone.
Registration for Dubai mParking
It is essential to register your car with Dubai’s RTA Parking SMS service to use the services for paid parking. For registration, ensure you have a registration card and an Emirates ID. Visit the RTA website and select the SMS Parking section. Next, provide your vehicle and personal information, select the payment method, and confirm your registration by agreeing to all the terms and conditions. You will receive a confirmation message once RTA approves your application.
Steps to Send Car Parking SMS
Paying for car parking through SMS is a seamless process. Here are the steps to follow to ensure an effortless parking experience.
Find the Zone Number
Find the zone number before parking your car. The zone number is usually displayed on signboards or pavement markings. It is essential to note the zone number correctly when booking your parking spot, so make sure to do so carefully.
Compose a Message
There is a set format for sending a Parking SMS. The text must include the parking zone, vehicle plate number, and duration of parking.
For instance, the text should be in the following format:
“Zone Number,” “Plate Number,” “Duration”
For example, if your vehicle number plate is A00000, the parking zone number is 123B, and you wish to park for two hours, your message should read A00000 123B 2.
For motorcyclists, there is a slight difference in the format. You need to include an additional letter ‘B’ as an initial letter in the text, like B0000 123A 2, following the same format.
Send an SMS
After crafting a message in the format mentioned above, send it to the code 7275. This code is also mentioned in the parking area.
Receive Confirmation
After sending the message to 7275, wait for the confirmation message. When you receive the message, your parking spot will be booked, and the payment will be deducted.
Another Emirate Vehicle Parking
If your vehicle is registered in another emirate, you can still avail mParking service by including the emirate code at the start of the format.
For example, a Sharjah-registered vehicle’s code is SHJ, so its format will be SHJA00000 123A 2. Make sure to know your Emirates code.
Renewal of Parking service
mParking also provides an option to renew the parking service. If your parking duration is about to expire, the system sends a message 10 minutes before the expiration so that you can renew your parking duration before time. The renewal is simple and requires you to send a text to 7275. Send the message ‘Y’ in the text to extend the duration of parking before the expiration of the first slot.
However, if you don’t free the parking slot after the duration expires, the e-service will automatically charge the parking fee for the following duration.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Ensure you enter the correct information in the text in a set format. Make sure to add an appropriate zone number to avoid mishaps in payment.
- Note that parking fees vary between parking areas, so make sure to check the fee for the exact parking zone.
- Keep the car parking confirmation message as proof. Since it’s a ticketless service, the SMS replaces a traditional ticket or coin.
- When using mParking service, ensure that you have sufficient balance in your mobile phone.
- Apart from parking fees, the service charges for booking a parking slot using mParking service will also be charged.
- If you need to extend the duration, make sure to extend the time before the initial duration expires to avoid fines.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the introduction of the innovative mParking system has significantly improved the parking experience in Dubai. This service is best among many other parking options, and it is highly convenient to park during peak hours without wasting your time. By following these steps, you can smoothly register and utilize the SMS Parking service to enhance your parking experience. So, don’t wait—embrace the efficient mParking service and effortlessly manage your parking fees. Bid farewell to the outdated method of payments.
Also, read our blog, A Detailed Guide to Car Parking in Dubai, to learn about car parking zones and parking fees in Dubai.