Dubai has many parking spots that are free under the right conditions: weekends, public holidays, and certain zones. Here's the complete map of free parking in Dubai 2026.
Always-free RTA parking
- Fridays + public holidays: ALL RTA paid zones are free 24 hours.
- Daily 10:00 PM – 8:00 AM: All paid zones free overnight.
- Zone G (free zones): Some areas in Al Quoz, Jebel Ali, Dubai Investment Park.
- Outer residential areas: Mirdif, Al Warqa, Al Mizhar, parts of Al Khawaneej — no paid parking.
Free mall & venue parking
- Dubai Mall — first 4 hours free; up to AED 200/hr after (avoid).
- Mall of the Emirates — first 4 hours free; AED 20/hr after for non-shoppers.
- Dubai Marina Mall, Ibn Battuta, Mirdif City Centre, Mercato — usually free for shoppers; some peak rates.
- City Walk, Al Seef, La Mer — paid valet but limited free street parking nearby.
- Beaches: JBR Beach, Kite Beach, Mamzar — free parking after 8 PM.
Tip: validate parking at the mall information desk after spending — sometimes extends free duration to 6+ hours.
Tips to avoid parking fines
- Always check the kerb colour — yellow = no parking, white & black = paid.
- Read the sign — "All days except Fri" means weekday-only paid.
- Never park on a pavement — AED 400 fine.
- Avoid disabled spots without permit — AED 1,000 fine.
- Pay via SMS even for 30 min — minimum charge is AED 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is parking free on Friday in Dubai?
Yes — all RTA paid zones are free all day Friday and public holidays.
How long is free parking at Dubai Mall?
First 4 hours free for visitors. Validation at the desk can extend it.
Are residential streets free in Dubai?
Outer residential areas (Mirdif, Al Warqa, Al Mizhar, etc.) have no paid parking. Inner residential paid zones offer free permits to residents.
What time is parking free overnight?
From 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM in all RTA paid zones.
Official sources: