Car Parking Laws in RAK: Guide to Rules and Fines

To keep roads safe and organized, RAK has clear parking laws managed by the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority (RAKTA) and RAK Police. Knowing these rules helps you park hassle-free, avoid fines, and enjoy your time in RAK.

Key Parking Rules in RAK

RAK’s parking laws, based on UAE federal regulations and local decrees, are straightforward. Most parking is free, but specific areas like airports or event zones have stricter rules. Here’s a breakdown of the key provisions:

Public Parking Fares (Article 4)

• Paid Parking: Required in specific zones like Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RAKIA). Fees range from AED 2 - 5 per hour.
• Free Parking: Most public streets and residential areas are free, except during restricted times or in designated paid zones.
• Exemptions: Ambulances, police cars, civil defense vehicles, armed forces vehicles, and vehicles for people of determination (POD) are exempt from fees, especially on public holidays.
• Tip: Always check signs, blue for paid, white for free, and yellow/red for no parking.

Subscription Cards for Parking (Article 5)

• What’s This? RAKTA offers monthly or annual parking subscriptions for frequent parkers in paid zones.
• How It Works: Get a subscription card or electronic permit via the mRAK app. Show it when asked by authorities.
• Who Needs It? Ideal for residents in busy areas like Al Mankhool or frequent airport visitors.

Reserved and Designated Parking Zones (Articles 3 & 6)

• Special Zones: RAK has designated parking for:
• People of determination (POD).
• Emergency services, public transport, taxis, and eco-friendly vehicles.
• Temporary/permanent reserved spots for government or private entities (e.g., event venues).
• Rules: Only authorized vehicles can use these spots. For example, POD spaces require a valid permit displayed clearly.
• Penalties: Parking in POD or emergency zones without permission can lead to fines up to AED 1,000 or vehicle impoundment.

Illegal Parking Violations (Articles 4, 7, 8 & 12)

You can face fines or penalties for:

• Parking in paid zones without paying (Article 4).
• Moving or damaging parking signs/devices (Articles 7 & 12).
• Conducting unauthorized business in parking areas, like selling goods (Article 8).

Key Parking Zones and Rules in RAK

Parking Fines and Penalties in RAK (Articles 19 & 20)

Here’s what to watch out for:

• Fines: Range from AED 200 (unpaid parking) to AED 50,000 for severe violations (e.g., damaging public parking infrastructure).
• Common Penalties:
• Parking in no-parking zones (yellow lines): AED 300 - 500.
• Blocking emergency exits or POD spaces: AED 400 - 1,000 + possible impoundment.
• Heavy vehicles parked illegally: AED 500 + 4 black points.
• Additional Measures: Unpaid fines may double, and vehicles can be towed or impounded at the owner’s expense (Article 20).
• Impoundment: Serious violations like blocking traffic or repeated offenses lead to vehicles being held at RAKTA’s designated facility, not the owner’s home.

Common Parking Fines in RAK

How to Pay Parking Fees and Fines

RAK makes payments quick and digital:

Paying Parking Fees:

• Airport or Paid Zones: Use on-site machines (cash/card) or the mRAK app.
• SMS Parking: Text “RAK [plate number] [hours]” to 7275 (e.g., RAK XYZ123 2). Costs 38 fils per SMS.
• Apps: Download mRAK, Etisalat, or du apps for seamless payments.

Paying Fines:

1. Visit rakta.gov.ae or moi.gov.ae.
2. Log in with UAE Pass.
3. Enter your plate or license number.
4. Pay via card.

Appeals (Articles 17 & 22):

• Grievances: File within 10 days via the mRAK app if you believe a fine is unfair.
• Reconciliation: Pay half the fine and fix the violation (e.g., move your car) to settle disputes (Article 22).

FAQs

What are the parking fees in Ras Al Khaimah in 2025?

Most parking is free, but paid zones like RAKIA Airport charge AED 2 - 5 per hour. Check the signs or the mRAK app.

What happens if I park in a POD space without a permit?

You face an AED 1,000 fine and possible vehicle impoundment. Always display a valid POD permit.

Can I keep an impounded vehicle at my home in RAK?

No, impounded vehicles must stay at RAKTA’s designated facility until fines are cleared.

How do I appeal a parking fine in RAK?

File a grievance within 10 days via the mRAK app or rakta.gov.ae using UAE Pass.

Are parking rules stricter in Dubai compared to RAK?

Yes, Dubai has more paid parking zones and stricter enforcement than RAK, which offers mostly free parking.