Abu Dhabi uses the Mawaqif SMS parking system so you can pay without coins or a paper ticket. You send a short text to 3009 in the correct format, receive a confirmation SMS, and keep it until you leave. It works for UAE and GCC plates, with different codes and parking types.
Do this next
- Check the kerb colour: Standard (black/blue) or Premium (white/blue).
- Open SMS and send your message to 3009 using the correct format below.
- Keep the confirmation message and set a reminder before expiry.
Table of Contents
What Mawaqif SMS parking is in Abu Dhabi
Mawaqif is Abu Dhabi’s official parking management system, overseen by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) under the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT). The SMS option is designed for real life: quick payment when you’re already on the move.
You’ll see it used most in busy areas where finding a machine is inconvenient, or when you want proof of payment on your phone.
How to pay Abu Dhabi parking by SMS (step-by-step)
To pay, you send one message to 3009 with four parts.
SMS format (copy style)
City/plate code + category [space] plate number [space] parking type [space] duration
- City/plate code + category: like AUH5 (Abu Dhabi) or DXBA (Dubai)
- Plate number: your digits (example: 12345)
- Parking type: S = Standard, P = Premium
- Duration: hours (example: 1, 2)
Examples
- Abu Dhabi plate (category 5), Standard, 1 hour: AUH5 12345 S 1
- Dubai plate (category A), Premium, 2 hours: DXBA 54321 P 2
After you send it, you should receive a confirmation SMS with your session details. Keep that message until you drive away.
Parking types, kerb colours, fees, and maximum time
The kerb colour is the quickest way to avoid mistakes. Standard is for longer stays. Premium is for short stays in high-demand areas.
| Parking type | Kerb colour | Typical fee | Maximum duration | Typical schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Black + blue | AED 2/hour or AED 15/day | Up to 24 hours | Often paid Mon–Sat, free on Sundays & public holidays (check signage) |
| Premium | White + blue | AED 3/hour | Up to 4 hours | Often paid Mon–Sat, limited hours (check signage) |
Always follow the sign at your exact spot. Event zones and special areas can change rules even on free days.
Abu Dhabi parking code help (UAE + GCC plates)
This is where most mistakes happen: the city/plate code + category must match the plate.
UAE plate codes (common patterns)
- Abu Dhabi: AUH + category (example: AUH5)
- Dubai: DXB + category (example: DXBA)
- Sharjah: SHJ + category (example: SHJ1)
- Ajman: AJM + category (example: AJMB)
- Ras Al Khaimah: RAK + category (example: RAKN)
- Umm Al Quwain: UAQ + category (example: UAQC)
- Fujairah: FUJ + category (example: FUJS)
GCC plates
GCC messages usually use a country code + category then the same structure (plate number, S/P, hours). If you’re visiting, check your plate category and write it exactly as used in the SMS examples you’re given locally.
How to extend your parking session
Mawaqif commonly sends a reminder before expiry. If you need more time, you can extend by sending:
E to 3009
This typically starts a new session for the same duration as your original request, as long as the zone allows it. Premium areas often have a strict maximum stay, so check before relying on an extension.
Other ways to pay if SMS isn’t ideal
Sometimes SMS is not the easiest option—especially if you’re low on mobile credit, you’re supporting multiple vehicles, or you prefer a card-based flow.
When to use this
- Choose machines or cards when you want a printed-style workflow or you’re paying for someone else.
- Choose the DARBI app when you want history, account management, or easier repeat payments.
- Choose TAMM when you’re handling admin tasks like fees, permits, or fines online.
Common alternatives:
- Pay & Display machines near parking areas
- Rechargeable parking cards (top-up and link options may be available)
- DARBI app for iOS/Android
- TAMM portal for online services
Fines, common mistakes, and how to avoid them
Most fines come from small slips: wrong type (S vs P), wrong code, or staying past the limit.
Common problems to avoid:
- Incorrect SMS format or missing spaces
- Paying Standard while parked in a Premium kerb area
- Exceeding Premium maximum stay
- Parking in restricted zones (bus/taxi/resident-only)
If you don’t receive a confirmation, treat it as unpaid and fix it immediately—don’t assume it worked.
Pro Tip: Take a quick photo of the parking sign and keep your confirmation SMS until you leave. If you ever need to double-check hours or zone rules, those two screenshots usually answer everything fast.
Read more: Dubai parking SMS (7275 PARK) guide and UAE parking timing & SMS hub page.
FAQs
What number do I text for Abu Dhabi parking?
Send your parking SMS to 3009. The message must include your city/plate code + category, your plate number, S or P, and the hours. Keep the confirmation SMS as proof until you leave your spot.
Is Abu Dhabi parking free on Sundays?
In many Standard zones, Sundays and UAE public holidays are free, but exceptions exist in special areas and during events. Always follow local signage at your exact parking bay, especially in premium or event-heavy zones.
How do I extend an SMS parking ticket in Abu Dhabi?
You can usually extend by texting E to 3009 before your session ends. The extension is still subject to zone regulations and maximum stay limits, especially in Premium areas.
What if I send the wrong SMS format?
If the format is wrong, your transaction may fail and you can be considered parked without a valid session. Do not rely on a sent message—recheck and resend correctly, and make sure you receive a confirmation SMS.
Last updated: 2026-02-16
Reviewed by: UAEwow Editorial Team
