Dubai—vibrant, busy, and full of unforgettable experiences—demands a parking solution that saves time, money, and frustration. Thankfully, the RTA Seasonal Parking Permit is the ultimate ticket to stress-free parking across the city. In this blog, we will cover some of the most important aspects related to the seasonal parking permit and answer questions that cover the purpose, types, fees, and documentation required for the parking permit in Dubai.
What is an RTA Seasonal Parking Permit?
Simply put, the RTA Seasonal Parking Permit is a digital, prepaid card linked to your vehicle’s license plate. Instead of scrambling for SMS codes or app payments every time you park, with this permit, you pay once for the duration of the season and park freely in the designated areas.
Definition and Purpose of Seasonal Parking
Seasonal parking in Dubai is offered by the RTA, and it allows vehicle owners to park in designated public parking zones for a fixed duration without the need for daily payments or SMS activation. The permit is linked directly to the vehicle's license plate and is valid across all selected zones based on the type of permit chosen.
The main purpose of seasonal parking is to provide a convenient, cost-effective solution for residents, frequent commuters, and businesses who regularly use public parking areas. It is a great option if you wish to avoid repeated payments and ensure uninterrupted parking access in high-demand areas throughout the city.
Types of Permits
Drivers have the option to select between two different types of parking permits:
- Category A (valid for zones A, B, C & D): This covers all public paid zones. It is best for drivers needing broad access.
- Category B (valid in zones B & D only): Ideal for residents or regular users of quieter parking zones—more affordable than Category A.
Note that neither of these options do not cover parking in areas like TECOM, Silicon Oasis, Al Khail Gate, and multi-storey RTA lots. Plus, student passes restrict parking to university-adjacent zones.
Duration Options
Dubai’s RTA Seasonal Parking Permits offer flexible duration choices designed to suit different needs and budgets. You can choose between:
- 1 month
- 3 months
- 6 months
- 12 months
What are the Prices for RTA Seasonal Parking Permits?
Let’s look at the fees associated with each parking permit duration.
Category A (zones A, B, C & D):
| Duration |
Fees |
| 1 month |
500 AED |
| 3 months |
1400 AED |
| 6 months |
2500 AED |
| 12 months |
4500 AED |
Category B (B & D):
| Duration |
Fees |
| 1 month |
250 AED |
| 3 months |
700 AED |
| 6 months |
1300 AED |
| 12 months |
2400 AED |
Special Permits:
- Student (3 months): 300 AED
Multi-storey:
3 months — 2000 AED
6 months — 4000 AED
12 months — 8000 AED
What are the Benefits of an RTA Seasonal Parking Card?
There are multiple advantages to acquiring a seasonal parking permit, starting from the fact that you no longer have to worry about sending SMS before your parking expires.
Other benefits include:
- Major savings: Fees range from 20-50% less than daily parking costs.
- Park and forget: Just park and go; RTA inspectors scan your plate internally.
- Customization duration: You can choose the option that best fits you, whether a month or a year.
- Zone flexibility: Select general areas or focus on specific zones like Zones B & D.
- No Paper: Everything is digital, linked directly to your vehicle’s license plate.
Having a
seasonal parking card allows you more flexibility and ease of mind. It is a great option for drivers who use RTA public parking regularly as it allows them to park their car without the hassle of finding a parking meter or sending SMSs that restrict the parking duration. Besides, the fact that everything about this parking permit is digital makes it much easier to handle—you can check your permit status, expiry date, and zone eligibility via the RTA or DubaiNow apps.
Who Can Apply for an RTA Seasonal Parking Permit?
Seasonal parking permits are available to drivers of light vehicles only. Heavy trucks, buses, and commercial pickups are excluded.
• UAE citizens, residents, and GCC nationals
• Students (with proof of enrolment)
• Companies (fleet or dedicated vehicles)
• People of determination and senior Emiratis (discounted or free permits)
How to Apply for an RTA Seasonal Parking Permit?
Applying for a parking permit is quick and easy, thanks to several convenient digital and in-person channels.
RTA Dubai App/DubaiNow App: the easiest way to apply. Users can log in with their UAE Pass, select the seasonal parking option, choose their preferred zone and duration, upload required documents, and complete payment online.
RTA website: users can navigate to Driver and Car Owner—Parking—Seasonal Parking Card and then follow the directions to complete the application.
Self-Service Kiosk/RTA Customer Happiness Centers: visit in person with the required documents to apply for a Seasonal Parking Permit.
What Documents are Required for a Seasonal Parking Card?
Required documentation will depend on whether the applicant is an individual person or a company/business.
For individuals, the required documents include:
• Valid UAE ID
• Vehicle registration card (Mulkiya)
• UAE driving license
Companies applying for a seasonal parking permit will need to provide:
• Valid trade license
• Vehicle registration under the name of the company
• Emirates ID or passport copy of the authorized signatory
• Signed authorization letter or board resolution
Once approved, the permit is activated digitally and linked directly to the
vehicle’s license plate—no need for papers or stickers.
Fees and Payment Options
When applying for a parking permit, you pay a single upfront fee based on the chosen duration and permit zone. Regardless of whether you have chosen to apply online or in-person by visiting the RTA kiosk or customer happiness center, the payment is simple and easy.
Online channels accept both debit and credit card payment options, while in-person channels offer the option to pay the amount in cash.
No additional registration or service fee is charged—what you see is what you pay.
Conclusion
The RTA Seasonal Parking Permit isn’t just another fee—it is a strategic investment in your time, peace of mind, and financial efficiency. This permit offers ease, flexibility, and smarter budgeting for residents commuting daily, students, or small business owners.
Let your parking be one less thing to worry about on the busy streets of Dubai. Choose what fits your parking habits and leave the rest to the RTA’s smart system.
