Navigating Abu Dhabi’s Parking Landscape: The Mawaqif System
Since its inception in 2009, Abu Dhabi’s Mawaqif parking system has revolutionized the way residents find and pay for parking. Developed by the Department of Transport, the system combines convenience with efficiency, allowing users to park without the customary hassles associated with urban parking. Among the various payment methods offered, SMS payment stands out as a particularly user-friendly option.
How to Make Parking Payments via SMS in Abu Dhabi
If you’re looking to pay for parking using SMS, follow these straightforward steps:
- Open Your SMS App: Begin by composing a new message on your mobile device.
- Set the Sender Number: Enter 3009 in the sender field.
- Adhere to the SMS Format: Your message must include your city and plate code, a space, your plate number, another space, the type of parking (either ‘S’ for Standard or ‘P’ for Premium), and the desired duration.
SMS Format Example
A typical message for parking in Abu Dhabi would appear as follows:
AUH8 3214 S 1
- City and Plate Code: "AUH" for Abu Dhabi
- Parking Type: "S" indicates Standard Parking, while "P" denotes Premium Parking.
- Duration: State the number of hours for parking.
Understanding Parking Charges
The Mawaqif system stipulates the following hourly charges:
- Standard Parking: AED 2 per hour
- Premium Parking: AED 3 per hour
To avoid incurring fines or accumulating black points on your driving record, timely payment is essential. If you currently face black points, consider checking your status and adjusting your driving habits accordingly.
Extending Your Parking Duration
Once you’ve sent your initial SMS parking request, you will receive a confirmation. A reminder will be sent ten minutes prior to your parking expiry. To extend your parking, simply reply with an “E” to 3009.
Parking for Vehicles Registered Outside Abu Dhabi
The Mawaqif SMS system accommodates vehicles registered in other emirates. When sending your SMS, ensure you use the appropriate city code:
- Abu Dhabi: AUH
- Dubai: DXB
- Sharjah: SHJ
- Ras Al Khaimah: RAK
- Ajman: AJM
- Umm Al Quwain: UAQ
- Fujairah: FUJ
For example, a vehicle from Dubai would send:
DXBA 00000 S 1
Similarly, a car registered in Ras Al Khaimah would format their message as:
RAKN 00000 S 1
Alternative Payment Methods in Abu Dhabi
Beyond SMS, Abu Dhabi offers several other convenient methods for parking payments:
1. Mawaqif Pay & Display Machines
These turquoise machines are strategically located near parking areas and accept both cash and potentially contactless payments.
2. Customer Service Centres
Residents can visit these centres to top up their Mawaqif accounts in cash. They are found throughout the city.
3. Rechargeable Cards
A rechargeable card can be purchased at any Customer Happiness Centre for AED 50, with the ability to load up to AED 500. This option is ideal for regular parkers.
4. The DARBI Website and Mobile App
For those who prefer digital transactions, the DARBI platform offers a fast and easy way to pay via mobile or online. Whether registered or not, users can pay parking fees by entering their vehicle details.
To stay informed about the latest in the automotive world, including used and new car sales in the UAE, visit Dubicars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is SMS parking in Abu Dhabi?
It is a convenient system that allows drivers to pay for parking through text messages.
How do I pay for parking using SMS?
Open your SMS app, input 3009 as the recipient, and format the message as required.
What is the appropriate SMS format?
The correct format is: City and Plate Code, Plate Number, Parking Type, Duration. Example: AUH8 3214 S 1.
What do ‘S’ and ‘P’ represent?
‘S’ signifies Standard Parking, while ‘P’ indicates Premium Parking.
How much does the SMS payment cost?
Standard Parking incurs a charge of AED 2 per hour, whereas Premium Parking costs AED 3 per hour.
Can I extend my parking via SMS?
Yes, you will receive a reminder before expirations and can reply with “E” to extend your parking time.
Is SMS parking available for vehicles registered in other emirates?
Absolutely. Just use the respective city code for SMS.
What happens if I fail to make timely payment?
Late payments can result in fines and possible black points.
What other methods are available for parking payments?
Alternatives include Mawaqif Pay & Display machines, Customer Service Centres, Rechargeable Cards, and the DARBI platform.
Stay updated with the most current parking regulations and fees by visiting the official Mawaqif website or your nearest Customer Service Centre.
Source:www.dubicars.com
