While parking regulations may change depending on the area, most residential or designated spaces in the UAE are subject to permits issued by local authorities. A parking permit guarantees that an Emirates resident, no matter how long he/she has lived there, or a person of determination (person with disabilities) may access the allocated parking with little or no hassle. This article lays down how to obtain a parking permit in the UAE and lists the most current procedures and documentation requirements, as well as area-specific guidelines for Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and some other Northern Emirates.
What is a Parking Permit?
In the UAE, a parking permit is an authorization issued by the municipality or any federal authority that permits individuals to park in designated areas, generally free of cost. Such permits are often issued for residential zones or to people of determination for better accessibility. Parking permits are issued by the Ministry of Interior of the UAE in all seven emirates, which are Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al-Quwain, and Fujairah. Parking Permit in Dubai. Dubai parking is under the jurisdiction of the Roads and Transport Authority. While this article deals with the Federal Services for “People of Determination,” the term “Dubai Parking Permit” also embraces:
- Residential parking permits for residents in controlled zones.
- People with Determination permits allow free access to designated spaces.
How to Get a Permit in UAE?
UAE is very particular about licenses and permits. So if you want to know how to get a freelance license in Dubai or a parking permit in UAE, you have to follow a process. Applicants can apply for a parking permit Dubai via the RTA website or smart apps using their Emirates ID, tenancy contract, and vehicle registration card. Further documentation proving Dubai residency (visa, ID, employment certificate) is required from Dubai residents applying for permits in other emirates. Abu Dhabi parking permits follow a simple process and an entirely online one. The application procedure is as follows:
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the Ministry of Interior website www.moi.gov.ae or download the MOI UAE application.
- Log in through Emirates ID or UAE Pass.
- Click on Vehicle Services > People of Determination Parking Permits.
- Fill in your particulars, including mobile number, address, and medical condition.
- Enter your vehicle(s) particulars.
- Submit your application.
A tracking ID will be sent to end customers to monitor their application once submitted. This permit does not incur any charges and is widely accepted in Abu Dhabi and other emirates.
Sharjah Parking Permit
Residents and applicants for a Sharjah parking permit must visit the local traffic police department with the required documentation, while no online application process is available, i.e. the process prefers manual operation.
Requirements:
- Valid People of Determination card (from the relevant authority)
- Vehicle registration card
- Emirates ID
Note: Only vehicles registered in Sharjah are eligible. This ensures that only Sharjah residents benefit from permits issued within the emirate.
Parking Permit in Northern Emirates
Residents in Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain must also apply in person at their emirate’s traffic police department. Each emirate may require additional documents:
Ajman & Umm Al Quwain:
- Emirates ID
- Vehicle registration card
- Valid People of Determination card
Ras Al Khaimah:
- All the above, plus a medical report confirming your condition
Fujairah:
- Standard documentation applies: ID, registration card, and disability card
This ensures a unified but regionally administered system for UAE residential parking permit applications across the northern region.
General Eligibility & Application Process
Who Can Apply?
- UAE nationals and residents who are classified as People of Determination
- Holders of a valid Emirates ID
- Individuals with a registered vehicle in the UAE
- Applicants who can provide the required supporting documents
Standard Documentation:
- People of Determination card
- Emirates ID
- Vehicle registration card
- Proof of residency (for inter-emirate applications)
- Medical report (Ras Al Khaimah only)
How Much Does It Cost?
The parking permit for People of Determination is free across all emirates.
Apply Online or In-Person?
Online Applications:
- Available for Abu Dhabi through the MOI UAE
- Some digital options are available in Dubai through RTA platforms
In-Person Applications:
- Required in Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm Al Quwain
- Visit the traffic police department in your emirate
Final Thoughts
Having the right information usually makes the whole parking permit application easy in the UAE. Whether in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, or in one of the Northern Emirates, knowing the eligibility, methods for application, and what documents are needed would go a long way toward acquiring a permit easily and without wasting time.
If you’re a person of determination, this process ensures better accessibility across the country—supporting your independence and mobility. Be sure to follow the procedures specific to your emirate and keep updated on any policy changes.
Stay tuned to Khaleej Journal for more informative content about the UAE life.
FAQs
How can I apply for a parking permit in the UAE?
You can apply online via the MOI UAE app or website for Abu Dhabi, or visit your emirate’s traffic police department with the required documents.
What documents are required for a UAE residential parking permit?
In general, an Emirates ID, a People of Determination card, and a vehicle registration card are needed. Some emirates may also require a medical report or proof of residency for.
Is the parking permit process different in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah?
Abu Dhabi and Dubai allow an online application, while Sharjah requires the applicant to visit the administration in person. Since this also refers to the application requirements that may slightly differ by emirate.
How long does it take to get a parking permit approved in the UAE?
If one applies online, it can take a few days to a week. In-person applications will vary depending on the documentation and processing queue.
Can I apply for a UAE parking permit online as a tenant or resident?
Yes, in some emirates such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, you will have to show proof of tenancy and residency. For Northern Emirates, a visit to the site is required.
