Dubai and Abu Dhabi parking fines: How to appeal and avoid unnecessary fees

Dubai: Have you ever returned to your car after a few hours, only to find a parking ticket on your windscreen, even though you had paid for parking? If you believe the fine was issued unfairly, you have the right to challenge it.

According to Dubai’s public parking operator, Parkin PJSC, motorists can dispute fines through Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Meanwhile, those in Abu Dhabi must submit their disputes under the emirate’s Mawaqif system.
There are official channels available to appeal against fines and potentially have them revoked. If you are going to challenger a fine, ensure you submit your dispute within the required timeframe and provide clear evidence to support your case. If your appeal is successful, you could save yourself from paying a fine you did not deserve. Here’s how you can navigate the dispute process and avoid paying unnecessary penalties.

Disputing a parking fine in Dubai
According to the RTA, all parking fine disputes must be submitted within 30 days from the date of issuance. Once the dispute is filed, you will receive an update on its status via SMS within 30 days of submission.

How to submit a dispute online
Visit the RTA’s official dispute form page: RTA Dispute Form: https://www.rta.ae/wps/portal/rta/ae/dispute-form?lang=en

Select the dispute type and enter the fine number.

Provide your full name and mobile number.

Attach supporting evidence, such as photographs or relevant documents.

Briefly explain the circumstances and reasons for disputing the fine.

Agree to the terms and conditions, then submit the application.

Once submitted, you will receive a reference number to track the status of your dispute on the RTA website (www.rta.ae).

Alternative methods

Visit an RTA customer service centre, such as those in Al Barsha or Umm Ramool.

Call the RTA helpline on 800 9090 for assistance.

Disputing a parking fine in Abu Dhabi
Parking fines in Abu Dhabi are generally issued by the emirate’s public transport authority, AD Mobility, under the Mawaqif system. You can file a grievance or exemption request via the Darb app.

How to submit a dispute via the Darb App

Download and log in to the Darb app using your UAE Pass.

Navigate to the ‘Requests’ section, which covers grievances and exemptions for both Darb toll fines and Mawaqif parking fines.

Select the type of grievance/exemption, then choose ‘Fines’ as the category.

Identify the fine you wish to dispute.

Provide details of the incident and your reason for appealing.

Attach supporting evidence, such as photos or documents.

Submit the application.

Once submitted, you will receive a reference number to track your application status.