Ajman’s parking system is almost entirely digital, making payment quick and life much easier for regular drivers. The Ajman SMS parking system is a simple service once you get the hang of it, but many drivers still get confused about the correct timings or the proper SMS format for SMS parking Ajman.
This guide brings everything together, making it easy to manage your parking. Whether you’re staying in the city or using a rental from Hertz UAE for a short trip, you can pay Ajman parking confidently without any guesswork using the available payment systems.
Overview of Ajman’s Digitized Parking System
The city moved away from physical machines a while ago. The Municipality and Planning Department, better known as MPDA (Ajman Municipality), manages the entire public parking network, making it user-friendly for all drivers. MPDA aimed to make payment quick enough that you don’t have to walk around looking for a machine. The move also helped reduce small queues that used to form in busy commercial pockets.
Most people now use this digital service by sending a quick text or using the MPDA app or Ajman Municipality app driving in the UAE to cover their spot. It’s simple, and after you’ve used it once or twice, the steps become easier.
Ajman Paid Parking Timings
Ajman paid parking follows a split schedule that matches peak traffic hours, especially near offices and commercial areas. The timeframes include:
- 8.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.
- 5.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m.
These hours apply from Saturday through Thursday. The small gap in the afternoon often catches newcomers. So, it helps to keep the pattern in mind and pay promptly when stopping somewhere for a short errand.
Free Parking Timings in Ajman
Friday is the Ajman free parking day, with complimentary parking available throughout the day across all public parking zones.
Public holidays are free as well. A few streets also relax the rules later in the evening, although that depends on local boards and parking enforcement schedules. The signs usually indicate this clearly. If you’re heading out with family or doing a slow evening drive in a rental or leased vehicle, these free periods give you a little extra room to explore without worrying about an active ticket.
Ajman Parking Charges
The fee structure is very predictable. Here’s the latest rate table for quick reference:
| Duration | Fee (AED) |
| 30 minutes | 1 |
| 1 hour | 2 |
| 1.5 hours | 3 |
| 2 hours | 4 |
| 2.5 hours | 5 |
| 3 hours | 6 |
| 3.5 hours | 7 |
| 4 hours | 8 |
| 4.5 hours | 9 |
| 5 hours | 10 |
The gradual increase makes it easy to decide whether you need a full hour or just a short stop, helping you calculate the parking fees in advance. You’ll see these fees in both busy areas and quieter streets.
How to Use SMS Parking in Ajman
SMS Parking in AjmanAlt text: SMS Parking in Ajman
The Ajman parking SMS service is meant for quick payments. It works for one hour at a time.
Here’s one example of how drivers usually use it:
- Open the text message screen on your mobile phone.
- Enter 5155 in the receiver box.
- Type the required format using your vehicle details: plate source, then the category, followed by the number. Each detail is separated by a space.
- Send the message.
- A confirmation message of your Ajman parking code comes through almost instantly.
- If time runs low, reply with “Y” to extend it for another hour.
It’s the most convenient option for paid parking when you’re in a rush or stopping somewhere briefly. Many people use it when picking up takeaway, stepping into a pharmacy or stopping outside a government office without worrying about parking fees.
SMS Parking Format for UAE Plate Codes
Every emirate has its own abbreviated code. As long as this part is correct, the system recognizes the plate.
Some quick examples:
- AJ A 12345 for a vehicle registered in Ajman
- DXB A 1234 for Dubai
- SHJ B 6789 for Sharjah
The plate letters and numbers are usually easy to spot, especially on modern rentals. For instance, if you are renting a vehicle, copy the details exactly as they appear on the plate.
Entering the correct code ensures the ticket registers under the right plate. A small typo can cause invalid payment issues, so taking a moment to double-check helps avoid mistakes.
Using the MPDA App for Parking Payments
The app is helpful when you’re staying longer than an hour or don’t want to keep track of extensions. Once downloaded, the setup requires a phone number, email, and a password. After that, it becomes very quick to use. You pick your zone, select the parking duration, and pay through a card or mobile wallet.
The app also shows you how much time is left and lets you review your parking history, so you do not need to take the trouble of watching the clock. Many travellers using rental cars prefer this method when parking for longer periods, whether near the coast or in the city centre.
Parking Rules and Tips to Avoid Fines in Ajman
Parking rules and finesAlt text: Parking rules and fines
To learn how to put parking in Ajman, follow these simple rules to avoid unnecessary surprises:
- Park squarely inside the marked bay, especially when performing parallel parking
- Send your payment as soon as you stop
- Avoid blocking pavements, entrances, or engaging in double parking
- Watch the zone sign for any special notes
- Keep the confirmation SMS until you return to the vehicle
Always check nearby signage and refer to traffic signs in the UAE to confirm zone rules.
Inspectors are usually consistent, especially in areas with steady traffic, so following these simple points helps ensure a smooth parking experience.
Final Thoughts
Ajman’s parking system looks complicated only at first glance. Once you’ve understood the timings, parking rules, and tried the Ajman parking SMS format once, the whole process feels straightforward. The system is built to save time rather than complicate it.
If you’re travelling between emirates, it also helps to understand how parking in Sharjah and parking in Dubai works, as each emirate follows slightly different rules and payment systems.
If you’re renting a vehicle from Hertz UAE, understanding these steps will make driving and parking around Ajman much easier, whether for quick errands or full-day outings.
FAQs
How does Ajman parking SMS payment work?
You send your plate details to 5155, and the system issues a one-hour digital ticket.
How can I pay for parking in Ajman by SMS?
Write the plate source, category, and number with spaces in between, then send it to 5155.
Is parking free in Ajman?
Yes. Fridays and public holidays are free, with a few zones offering extra evening hours.
How much does Ajman parking SMS cost?
You pay the standard hourly parking fees, plus any small SMS charge by your network provider.
Which Ajman parking zones support SMS payments?
Most public zones accept SMS payments unless a sign specifically states otherwise.
What is the free parking time in Ajman?
Public holidays and Fridays are completely free. Some areas also shift to free parking later at night.
Can I extend my parking time using SMS?
Yes. Replying with Y extends the session for another hour.