If you drive in Ajman regularly, you already know the parking rules can catch you off guard. One day you park for free, next day same spot has a fine because you didn’t send an SMS. Fines are usually AED 100–150, and if you ignore them they add up fast — plus towing risk if left too long.
I’ve been driving in Ajman for years, got a couple of tickets early on (yes, my fault), and learned the system the hard way. Here’s everything you need to know in 2026 about Ajman parking SMS — how to pay by SMS, how to check if you paid, when parking is free, paid zones, and tips to avoid fines completely.
Let’s make it simple and long enough so you don’t miss anything.
Basic Parking Rules in Ajman Right Now (2026)
Most public parking (streets, near shops, residential areas) follows these timings:
- Paid hours: Saturday to Thursday → 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Friday & public holidays: Usually free all day (but some busy areas still charge — always check sign)
- Night time: Free everywhere after 10:00 PM until 8:00 AM next morning
Quick summary:
- Pay during daytime weekdays (8 AM – 10 PM)
- Fridays/holidays mostly free
- After 10 PM free all night
Cost per hour:
- Normal streets: AED 2/hour
- Busy areas (Corniche, Al Jurf, near malls): AED 3/hour
- Max daily charge: AED 20–25 in most places
How to Pay Ajman Parking by SMS (Step by Step)
Ajman uses SMS parking payment — very simple once you know the format.
Normal SMS Payment:
- Look at the parking sign — it shows the SMS number (usually 5566 or 80085)
- Send SMS from your registered mobile number
- Message format: AJMAN [space] your car plate number Example: AJMAN 12345
- Send to the number on the sign
- You get instant reply: “Payment successful” + expiry time (Usually valid for 2–4 hours depending on zone)
Important:
- Mobile number must be registered in UAE (Etisalat or Du)
- Plate number exactly as written (no spaces, include letters like G for GCC)
- If you stay longer, send again before expiry — it extends time
Cost: AED 2–3 per hour (deducted from your mobile balance) No extra charge for SMS itself in most cases.
How to Check If You Paid or Remaining Time
Ajman doesn’t have direct “check balance” SMS like some emirates, but you can see status two ways:
- Reply SMS from payment confirmation — it shows expiry time
- Send “STATUS” or “INFO” to the same parking number — some zones reply with current status
- Use Ajman RTA app (best way):
- Download Ajman Roads & Transport app
- Log in (Emirates ID or phone)
- Go to “Parking” section
- Enter plate number → shows paid status, expiry, any fines
Tip: If you get a fine even after paying — take screenshot of SMS confirmation and appeal through the app or RTA office.
Special Parking Areas in Ajman
- Ajman Corniche & Al Zorah: Paid all day (even Fridays in some parts) — AED 2–3/hour
- Near malls (City Centre Ajman, Al Jurf): Free for first 2–4 hours (then paid) — check mall boards
- Residential compounds: Mostly free, but some charge visitors
- Near Ajman University & schools: Paid only during school hours (7 AM–2 PM)
- Free streets: Many areas in Al Rashidiya, Al Nuaimiya, Al Rawda are free all day — no sign = free
What Happens If You Get a Fine?
- Fine amount: AED 100–150 (usually AED 100 for first offence)
- Pay online: Ajman RTA app or website (within 15 days — cheaper)
- Pay at Tasheel center or RTA office
- Ignore it: Fine doubles after 30 days + towing risk
How to appeal: If you paid but still got fined — screenshot SMS confirmation, go to Ajman RTA app → “Dispute Fine” or visit office with proof.
Practical Tips from People Who Drive in Ajman Every Day
- Always read the sign — some streets free all day, some paid only mornings
- Use Ajman RTA app — pay from phone, get reminders, check fines instantly
- Take photo of parking spot + sign when you park — proof if fine comes by mistake
- Fridays mostly free but Corniche and mall areas still charge — don’t assume
- After 10 PM park anywhere free — good for late-night walks or meetings
- If parking for long time — send SMS every few hours to extend (or use app)
- Join “Ajman Residents” or “Sharjah & Ajman Expats” Facebook groups — people post new paid zones, free spots, and fine appeals tips
Final Thoughts
Ajman parking is actually quite easy — pay 8 AM to 10 PM most days, free at night and Fridays (except busy spots). Download the Ajman RTA app, check signs, and you’ll save money and avoid tickets.
Have you ever got a parking fine in Ajman? What’s your best free parking spot or hack? Comment below — helps everyone!
Safe driving! 🚗🇦🇪
Any questions? Just ask — I’ll try to help!