Abu Dhabi Parking & Traffic Rules 2025

Complete guide to Mawaqif parking fees, traffic fines, towing regulations, and free parking zones in Abu Dhabi

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Abu Dhabi Parking Fees 2025 Mawaqif Parking System Parking Zones Free Parking Areas Parking Violations & Fines Traffic Fines 2025 Vehicle Towing Rules Black Points System Mall Parking Rates Resident Parking Permits Public Holiday Parking How to Pay Traffic Fines FAQs

Abu Dhabi Parking Fees 2025 (Mawaqif)

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) manages public parking in Abu Dhabi through the Mawaqif system. For 2025, the following rates apply across different zones:

Parking on sidewalks 400 AED 0
Repeat Offenders: For repeat violations within one year, Abu Dhabi applies an escalating fine system. Second offenses receive a 50% increase, while third and subsequent offenses double the original fine amount.
Special Considerations:
  • Late Payment Penalties: Fines not paid within 30 days may incur an additional 50 AED administrative fee
  • Vehicle Clamping: Repeated violations may result in wheel clamping with a 100 AED release fee
  • Impoundment: Serious or repeated violations may lead to vehicle impoundment
  • Rental Cars: Violations on rental vehicles are transferred to the renter's traffic file

Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines 2025

Abu Dhabi's traffic laws have been updated for 2025, with significant penalties for violations:

Major Traffic Violations:
Violation Fine Amount Black Points Vehicle Impound
Speeding (exceeding limit by 80+ km/h) 3,000 AED 23 60 days
Reckless driving 2,000 AED 23 60 days
Racing on roads 5,000 AED 23 90 days
Driving under influence 20,000 AED 23 90 days
Driving without license 5,000 AED - 60 days
Driving against traffic 5,000 AED 23 60 days
Common Traffic Violations:
Violation Fine Amount Black Points
Using handheld mobile while driving 800 AED 4
Not wearing seatbelt 400 AED 4
Exceeding speed limit (up to 20 km/h) 300 AED 0
Exceeding speed limit (21-30 km/h) 600 AED 6
Running red light 1,000 AED 12
Dangerous overtaking 600 AED 6
Not giving way to emergency vehicles 1,000 AED 6
Not maintaining safe distance 400 AED 4
New 2025 Traffic Violations:

Recently introduced violations for 2025:

  • Obscured License Plate: Using covers that prevent radar detection - 2,000 AED fine
  • E-scooter Violations: Using e-scooters in prohibited areas - 300 AED fine
  • Camera Detection Devices: Using radar detection equipment - 2,000 AED fine
  • Modified Exhaust: Vehicles with modified exhausts creating excessive noise - 1,000 AED fine
  • Toll Evasion: Avoiding toll gates or tampering with toll tags - 500 AED fine
Discount Program: Abu Dhabi offers a progressive fine discount system. Fines paid within 30 days receive a 35% discount, and maintaining a clean driving record for 12 months may qualify for additional discounts up to 50% on accumulated fines.

Abu Dhabi Vehicle Towing Rules (2025)

In Abu Dhabi, vehicles may be towed or clamped for various violations. Understanding these rules can help you avoid the inconvenience and cost of vehicle impoundment:

When Your Vehicle Can Be Towed:
Mobile Applications
  • Abu Dhabi Police App: View and pay all traffic fines
  • Darb Abu Dhabi App: Specifically for parking violations
  • TAMM App: Unified government services platform
  • MOI UAE App: Ministry of Interior services

Process: Download app → Register/Login → Select 'Pay Fines' → Enter vehicle or license details → View and select fines → Choose payment method → Complete payment

Online Websites
  • Abu Dhabi Police Website: www.adpolice.gov.ae
  • ITC Website: www.itc.gov.ae
  • TAMM Portal: www.tamm.abudhabi
  • UAE Ministry of Interior: www.moi.gov.ae

Process: Visit website → Navigate to 'Services' → Select 'Traffic Fines' → Enter license/plate details → View fines → Proceed to payment gateway

In-Person Payment Centers
  • ITC Customer Happiness Centers
  • Abu Dhabi Police Stations
  • TAMM Service Centers
  • Authorized Banks: ADCB, FAB, Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
  • Exchange Houses: Al Ansari, UAE Exchange

Required Documents: Emirates ID or passport, vehicle registration card (for vehicle-related fines), driver's license (for driver-related fines)

Smart Kiosks and Payment Machines
  • Smart Police Stations (SPS): 24/7 unmanned police stations
  • ITC Smart Kiosks: Located in malls and government centers
  • Abu Dhabi Toll Gate Machines: For toll-related fines

Process: Locate kiosk → Select 'Traffic Fines' → Search by plate number/traffic file → View fines → Pay via card

2025 Fine Discounts and Payment Plans

Abu Dhabi offers one of the most generous fine discount programs in the UAE:

  • Early Payment Discount: 35% discount if paid within 30 days of issuance
  • No Violations Discount: Up to 50% discount on accumulated fines after maintaining a clean driving record for 12 months
  • Installment Plans: Pay fines over 3-12 months through participating banks (minimum 1,000 AED total fine amount)
  • Corporate Accounts: Companies with fleet vehicles can apply for discounted bulk payments

Frequently Asked Questions

Parking is free on Fridays throughout Abu Dhabi in all Mawaqif zones. However, Saturday is considered a normal working day, so standard parking fees apply. Multi-story parking buildings and private parking facilities may have their own fee structures that differ from the Mawaqif system, even on Fridays.

To get a resident parking permit in Abu Dhabi:
  1. Download and register on the Darb Abu Dhabi app
  2. Select "Mawaqif Resident Permit" from services
  3. Upload required documents (Tawtheeq contract/property ownership document, Emirates ID, vehicle registration card, ADDC bill)
  4. Pay the applicable fees (800 AED for standard permit)
  5. Receive your digital permit within 3-5 working days
Alternatively, you can visit any ITC customer happiness center with the same documents to apply in person.

If you don't pay your Abu Dhabi traffic fines, several consequences can occur:
  • You won't be able to renew your vehicle registration (Mulkiya) until all fines are settled
  • Additional administrative fees may be added to the original fine amount
  • Your vehicle may be flagged in the system, making it subject to potential impoundment if stopped by police
  • For serious violations, a travel ban may be placed preventing you from leaving the UAE
  • Repeated unpaid violations may result in your traffic file being flagged, affecting future transactions with traffic authorities
It's always recommended to pay fines promptly to avoid these complications and to take advantage of the early payment discounts.

The Abu Dhabi toll gate system (Darb) works as follows:
  • Toll Gates: There are 4 toll gates located on main bridges connecting Abu Dhabi Island to the mainland (Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Sheikh Khalifa Bridge, Al Maqta Bridge, and Mussafah Bridge)
  • Operating Hours: Tolls are charged from Saturday to Thursday during peak hours (7 AM - 9 AM and 5 PM - 7 PM)
  • Toll Amount: 4 AED per crossing during active hours (maximum 16 AED per day per vehicle)
  • Registration: All vehicles must be registered in the Darb system before using the toll gates
  • Payment: Prepaid account through the Darb app or website
  • Fines: 100 AED for first offense (unregistered vehicle), 200 AED for second, 400 AED for third within a year
  • Exemptions: Electric vehicles, public transport, school buses, and motorcycles are exempt
The system uses automatic license plate recognition technology, so there are no physical barriers or toll booths.

The key differences between Abu Dhabi's Mawaqif and Dubai's RTA parking systems are:
  • Operating Hours: Mawaqif operates 8 AM to 12 AM (midnight), while Dubai's system operates 8 AM to 10 PM
  • Free Days: Abu Dhabi offers free parking on Fridays only, while Dubai offers free parking on Fridays and public holidays
  • Pricing: Abu Dhabi's standard rate is 2 AED/hour (premium 3 AED/hour), while Dubai's standard rate is 2-4 AED/hour depending on zone
  • Color Coding: Abu Dhabi uses blue/white for premium and blue/black for standard, while Dubai uses different colors for each zone type (A, B, C, D)
  • Resident Permits: Abu Dhabi's resident permit costs 800 AED annually, while Dubai's costs vary by zone (significantly more expensive)
  • Payment Methods: Abu Dhabi uses Darb app primarily, while Dubai uses RTA Dubai app and SMS to 7275
  • Fines: Abu Dhabi's fine for unpaid parking is 200 AED, while Dubai's is 150 AED
Both systems are becoming increasingly digitized, with mobile apps being the preferred payment method in both emirates.
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Towing and Storage Fees (2025):
Service Light Vehicles Heavy Vehicles
Basic towing fee 400 AED 800 AED
Wheel clamping release fee 100 AED 200 AED
Storage fee (per day) 100 AED 200 AED
Administrative processing 150 AED 300 AED
How to Find Your Towed Vehicle:
  1. Call Abu Dhabi Police at 999 or 800-3333 to confirm if your vehicle was towed
  2. Use the Abu Dhabi Police app or Darb app to locate your impounded vehicle
  3. Visit the nearest police station to verify impound location
  4. Contact ITC at 800-88888 for vehicles towed due to parking violations

Requirements to Release a Towed Vehicle:

New for 2025: Abu Dhabi has implemented a "three-strike" policy for repeated parking violations. After three similar violations within 12 months, your vehicle becomes eligible for immediate towing rather than just receiving a fine.

Abu Dhabi Traffic Black Points System (2025)

The UAE's black points system tracks traffic violations and imposes additional penalties beyond monetary fines. Here's what you need to know about the updated 2025 system in Abu Dhabi:

Black Points Thresholds and Penalties:
Black Points Accumulated Penalty Duration
8-12 points Warning letter N/A
14-20 points License suspension 3 months
21-23 points License suspension 6 months
24+ points License suspension 12 months + mandatory driver rehabilitation course
Black Points Reduction Program (2025):

Abu Dhabi offers several ways to reduce accumulated black points:

  • Advanced Driving Course: Complete an approved course to remove up to 8 black points (maximum once per year)
  • Safe Driving Period: No violations for 3 consecutive months reduces points by 2 (maximum 6 points reduction per year)
  • Traffic Awareness Workshop: Attend ITC-approved workshops to reduce 3 points per workshop (maximum 6 points per year)
  • Community Service: Perform traffic-related community service to reduce up to 4 points (as assigned by Abu Dhabi Police)

Important Note: Foreign driver's license holders and tourists are also subject to the black points system in Abu Dhabi. Points are recorded against the traffic file and can affect future license issuance or rental car privileges in the UAE.

How to Check Your Black Points:

  • Abu Dhabi Police website: www.adpolice.gov.ae
  • Abu Dhabi Police smartphone app
  • Ministry of Interior (MOI) app
  • SMS service: Send "TP" followed by your traffic code and license number to 2233
  • Call Abu Dhabi Police at 800-3333

Abu Dhabi Mall Parking Rates (2025)

Abu Dhabi's major malls have their own parking management systems separate from Mawaqif regulations. Here are the current rates for popular shopping destinations:

Mall Free Hours Weekday Rate Weekend Rate Validation Options
Yas Mall First 3 hours 20 AED per hour after free period 25 AED per hour after free period +3 hours with 300+ AED purchase
Abu Dhabi Mall First 4 hours 15 AED per hour after free period 20 AED per hour after free period +2 hours with cinema ticket
Marina Mall First 4 hours 15 AED per hour after free period 20 AED per hour after free period +2 hours with 200+ AED purchase
Al Wahda Mall First 3 hours 15 AED per hour after free period 20 AED per hour after free period +2 hours with 150+ AED spend
Galleria Al Maryah Island First 3 hours 20 AED per hour after free period 25 AED per hour after free period +4 hours with dining receipt over 300 AED
WTC Mall First 2 hours 15 AED per hour after free period 20 AED per hour after free period +2 hours with 200+ AED purchase
Parking Tips for Abu Dhabi Malls:
  • For Yas Mall, the lower level parking (P1) is typically less crowded
  • The Galleria offers premium reserved parking near entrances (80-100 AED)
  • Marina Mall tends to be extremely busy on Fridays and Saturdays - arrive before 2 PM
  • WTC Mall offers valet parking service (65 AED)
  • Abu Dhabi Mall offers Ladies Only parking sections near main entrances
  • Al Wahda Mall offers EV charging stations with preferential locations

Abu Dhabi Resident Parking Permits (2025)

For residents living in areas with limited parking, Abu Dhabi offers a resident permit system that provides priority parking near homes:

Types of Resident Permits:
Standard Resident Permit
  • Cost: 800 AED per year
  • Validity: 12 months
  • Coverage: One vehicle per permit
  • Area: Specific zone near residence only

Benefit: Allows free parking in resident zones near your home

Premium Resident Permit
  • Cost: 1,200 AED per year
  • Validity: 12 months
  • Coverage: One vehicle per permit
  • Area: Multiple zones including work location

Benefit: Extended coverage for both home and work areas

Additional Permit Options:
  • Second Vehicle Permit: 1,200 AED per year (must be registered to same resident)
  • Temporary Visitor Permit: 200 AED per month (for guests staying with residents)
  • Electric Vehicle Permit: 400 AED per year (50% discount for eco-friendly vehicles)
  • People of Determination Permit: Free (upon verification of status)
  • Senior Citizen Permit (60+ years): 400 AED per year (50% discount)
How to Apply for a Resident Permit:
  1. Download and register on the Darb Abu Dhabi app
  2. Select "Mawaqif Resident Permit" from services
  3. Upload required documents:
    • Tenancy contract (Tawtheeq) or property ownership document
    • Emirates ID
    • Vehicle registration card (must be registered in applicant's name)
    • Electricity/water bill (ADDC bill) for address verification
  4. Pay the applicable fees online
  5. Receive digital permit (usually processed within 3-5 working days)
2025 Update: Abu Dhabi has introduced a "Smart Resident Permit" system that uses license plate recognition technology to identify permitted vehicles. Physical permit stickers are no longer required as all enforcement is now done digitally.

Public Holiday Parking Rules Abu Dhabi (2025)

During UAE public holidays, the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) typically announces special parking regulations. Here's the holiday parking schedule for 2025:

Holiday 2025 Dates Parking Status Exceptions
New Year's Day January 1, 2025 Free Parking Multi-story parking buildings
Eid Al Fitr April 1-4, 2025 (estimated) Free Parking None
Eid Al Adha June 8-11, 2025 (estimated) Free Parking None
Islamic New Year July 29, 2025 (estimated) Free Parking None
Prophet's Birthday October 8, 2025 (estimated) Free Parking None
Commemoration Day December 1, 2025 Free Parking None
UAE National Day December 2-3, 2025 Free Parking None

Holiday Parking Rules: The ITC typically announces official holiday parking rules a few days before each holiday. Always check the ITC website, social media channels, or Darb app for the most current information.

Important Note: Even during free parking periods, all other traffic and parking regulations remain in effect. Cars parked illegally or causing obstruction will still be subject to fines and/or towing.

How to Pay Abu Dhabi Traffic Fines (2025)

Abu Dhabi offers multiple convenient channels to pay traffic and parking fines:

200 AED 0 Parking behind another vehicle (double parking) 500 AED 0 Parking in loading/unloading areas 200 AED 0 Parking in taxi stands 500 AED 0 Parking in resident permit zones without valid permit 300 AED 0 Zone Rate (Per Hour) Maximum Hours Operational Hours Days Premium (Blue & White) 3 AED 4 hours max 8 AM - 12 AM (Midnight) Monday - Saturday Standard (Black & Blue) 2 AED 24 hours max 8 AM - 12 AM (Midnight) Monday - Saturday Resident (Blue & White/Green) Special permit required N/A 8 AM - 12 AM (Midnight) Monday - Saturday Multi-Story Parking 2-4 AED No limit 24 hours All week
New for 2025: ITC has introduced digital parking permits for residents that can be managed entirely through the Darb app. Premium zone rates have been optimized with a progressive pricing structure that increases rates after the first 2 hours to encourage turnover in high-demand areas.

Payment Methods:

  • Darb App: The official Abu Dhabi mobility app for parking payments
  • SMS Parking: Send message to 3009 with plate details
  • Parking Meters: Located throughout parking zones
  • M-Mawaqif Parking Cards: Available in denominations of 30 AED, 50 AED, and 100 AED
  • Seasonal Parking Permits: Available for 3 months (1,250 AED), 6 months (2,400 AED), or 12 months (4,200 AED)

Mawaqif Parking System Explained (2025)

The Mawaqif parking system in Abu Dhabi is operated by the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) to organize and regulate public parking across the emirate:

Key Features of the Mawaqif System:
  • Color-Coded Curbs: Different colors indicate different parking types and regulations
  • Digital Payment Options: Multiple ways to pay for parking without physical tickets
  • Resident Permits: Special allocations for residents in crowded areas
  • Mobile Enforcement: Automated scanning vehicles monitor compliance
  • Time-Based Regulations: Different restrictions based on time of day
  • Reserved Spaces: Designated spots for people of determination
  • Free Periods: No charges during specific days and times
  • Smart Integration: Connected to Abu Dhabi's smart city infrastructure
2025 Mawaqif Updates:

The Mawaqif system received significant upgrades for 2025, including:

  • Expanded Coverage: Mawaqif now covers additional areas in Khalifa City, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, and Al Reem Island
  • Smart Meters: New solar-powered meters with touchscreen interfaces and contactless payment options
  • AI Monitoring: Advanced cameras that can detect parking violations using artificial intelligence
  • Real-Time Occupancy: Live parking availability data through the Darb app
  • Reserved Parking: Ability to pre-book premium spots in high-demand locations

Mawaqif Contact Information:

  • Mawaqif Call Center: 800-3009 (toll-free)
  • Email: mawaqif@itc.gov.ae
  • Customer Service Centers: Located across Abu Dhabi city
  • Website: www.itc.gov.ae
  • Darb App: Available on iOS and Android platforms

Abu Dhabi Parking Zones Explained (2025)

Understanding Abu Dhabi's color-coded parking zones helps you park legally and avoid fines:

Premium Zones (Blue & White Curbs)

High-demand, short-term parking areas in busy commercial districts:

  • Downtown Abu Dhabi (Hamdan Street, Khalifa Street)
  • Tourist areas (Corniche, Heritage Village)
  • Business districts (Al Markaziyah)
  • Shopping districts (World Trade Center area)

Purpose: High turnover parking for shoppers and business visitors

Standard Zones (Black & Blue Curbs)

General public parking areas with less restrictions:

  • Most areas in Abu Dhabi city
  • Al Khalidiyah and Al Bateen
  • Parts of Tourist Club Area
  • Al Zahiyah and Al Mina

Purpose: General parking for visitors, workers, and residents without permits

Resident Zones (Blue & White/Green Curbs)

Parking areas reserved for residents with valid permits:

  • Densely populated residential areas
  • Areas with limited parking availability
  • Mixed-use developments with residential components
  • Sections of Al Najda, Al Muroor, and Al Bateen

Purpose: Reserved parking for resident permit holders during specified hours

Restricted Zones (Red Curbs)

No parking allowed under any circumstances:

  • Fire hydrant access points
  • Bus and taxi stops
  • Emergency vehicle paths
  • Loading/unloading zones
  • Security-sensitive areas

Purpose: Keep critical areas clear at all times

Zone Identification: Look for color-coded curbs and Mawaqif signage. The Darb app also shows zone types for your current location with real-time availability information.

Abu Dhabi Free Parking Areas (2025)

Abu Dhabi offers several free parking options throughout the city, particularly outside of paid hours and on special days:

Free Parking Days & Times:
  • Fridays: All Mawaqif parking areas are free
  • Sundays: Free parking in select areas (check Darb app for current status)
  • Public Holidays: Free parking across all Mawaqif zones (announced by ITC for each holiday)
  • Daily Free Hours: 12 AM (Midnight) to 8 AM in all zones
Official Free Parking Areas in Abu Dhabi:
  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free visitor parking
  • Corniche Public Beach: Free parking in designated areas
  • Hudayriat Island: Free parking for beach visitors
  • Heritage Park: Free parking during operating hours
  • Mangrove National Park: Free visitor parking
  • Al Mina Fish Market: Free short-term parking
  • Some Peripheral Residential Areas: Not yet covered by Mawaqif
  • Al Wathba Wetland Reserve: Free parking for visitors
  • Al Ain Zoo: Free parking for zoo visitors
  • Masdar City: Free parking zones in specific areas
2025 Update: ITC has designated new free parking areas in Mohammed Bin Zayed City and parts of Khalifa City to support residents in these developing communities. These are clearly marked with "Free Parking" signs.

Important Note: Even in free parking areas, you must follow general parking regulations. Blocking entrances, parking in prohibited zones, or obstructing traffic can still result in fines.

Abu Dhabi Parking Violations & Fines (2025)

The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) enforces parking regulations in Abu Dhabi. Here are the current fines as of 2025:

Violation Fine Amount Black Points
Parking without payment in Mawaqif zones 200 AED 0
Parking in prohibited areas 500 AED 0
Blocking traffic flow 500 AED 4
Parking in fire hydrant access 1,000 AED 4
Parking in handicapped spaces without authorization 1,000 AED 6