Abu Dhabi SMS Parking System Explained
Summary
Abu Dhabi’s Mawaqif system allows drivers to conveniently pay for parking via SMS using a structured message format sent to 3009.
- Message Format: Emirate Code + Plate Code + Plate Number + Parking Type + Duration
- Parking Type: S for Standard (AED 2/hr) or P for Premium (AED 3/hr)
- Emirate Codes: AUH (Abu Dhabi), DXB (Dubai), SHJ (Sharjah), RAK (Ras Al Khaimah), AJM (Ajman), UAQ (Umm Al Quwain), FUJ (Fujairah)
- Send To: 3009
- Extension: Type ‘E’ and send to 3009 to avoid fines
Note: Parking is free on Sundays and public holidays in Abu Dhabi.
Abu Dhabi has a smart parking system that allows motorists to park conveniently across the city and pay fees through different methods, including SMS. The SMS parking service allows users to book and pay for parking without relying on kiosks, simplifying the process. Understanding how SMS parking in Abu Dhabi works helps motorists to manage their parking sessions hassle-free.
How to Use SMS Parking in Abu Dhabi
The SMS parking service by the MAWAQiF Abu Dhabi can be accessed through the following steps:
- Step 1: Open a new ‘Text Message’
- Step 2: Add ‘3009’ to the recipient number
- Step 3: Write SMS in this format: City and Plate Code <space> Plate Number <space> Parking Type <space> Duration
- Step 4: Send the SMS and wait for the confirmation message

Abu Dhabi Parking SMS Format
While sending an SMS to pay for the parking using the above-mentioned format, motorists must select a parking type – Standard or Premium Parking.
| Details | Premium Parking | Standard Parking |
| Colour | White & Torquoise | Black & Torquoise |
| Fees | AED 3/hour | AED 2/hour & AED 15 for the whole day |
| Maximum Staying | 4 hours | 24 hours |
| Schedule | 08:00 am to 12:00 am | Free on Sundays and Public Holidays | 08:00 am to 12:00 am | Free on Sundays and Public Holidays |
Similarly, the city code varies depending on the emirate in which the vehicle is registered. The city code for each emirate is as follows:
| City Name | Code |
| Abu Dhabi | AUH |
| Dubai | DXB |
| Ajman | AJM |
| Sharjah | SHJ |
| Fujairah | FUJ |
| Ras Al Khaimah | RAK |
| Umm Al Quwain | UAQ |
Abu Dhabi SMS Parking Extension
Motorists can extend parking duration when using the SMS parking system to avoid fines in Abu Dhabi.
- Open the original text, previously sent to book the parking session
- Type ‘E’ in the message body and send it
- The system will automatically extend the parking duration by the same period as booked initially.

Smart Parking Service in Abu Dhabi
Q Mobility Abu Dhabi has recently launched an advanced parking system in the capital city. Using automatic licence plate recognition, the system detects vehicles as they enter the parking areas and automatically deducts the fee from the driver’s DARB Wallet upon exit. This technology provides a seamless parking experience without the need for kiosks or manual payment.
FAQs
How does SMS parking work in Abu Dhabi?
Motorists can pay for parking by sending a text message to 3009 with their vehicle and parking details.
What is the SMS format for parking in Abu Dhabi?
The SMS format for parking in Abu Dhabi is: CityCode+PlateCode <space> PlateNumber <space> ParkingType <space> Duration.
How much does SMS parking cost in Abu Dhabi?
The SMS parking fee in Abu Dhabi depends on the type of parking space. The charges for premium parking are AED 3/hour, while Standard Parking costs around AED 2/hour or AED 15/day.
Can you extend parking time using SMS in Abu Dhabi?
Yes, SMS parking in Abu Dhabi can be extended by sending an ‘E’ via SMS to 3009 using the original booking message.
What are the parking timings in Abu Dhabi?
The parking timings in Abu Dhabi are from 08:00 AM to 12:00 AM, and it is free on Sundays and public holidays.
What happens if you enter the wrong SMS parking format?
If the SMS format is incorrect, the parking session will not be registered and motorists may receive a notification of error.
This is all about SMS parking in Abu Dhabi and how to use it. This hassle-free system adds to the convenience of users and also reduces the chances of parking fines. Aside from wrong parking, minor accidents in the parking lots can also result in hefty fines. To avoid accidents, motorists can avail themselves of new cars for sale in Abu Dhabi that come equipped with advanced sensors and parking systems.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog to learn about Abu Dhabi parking rules.