UAE: What is Darb App? The key of your car in Abu Dhabi is as important as it is. world News

TL; Dr.
- Abu Dhabi added new paid parking areas in many public areas.
- Now you need
Darab app To pay for parking and avoid fine. - The app also handles toll, it is necessary if you drive in the city.
Abu Dhabi is tightening how public parking works. Places such as Eastern Mangrove, Dolphin Park, Al Khaleej al Arabic Street and Al Kurm Plaza are now paid the parking area. You will see new curb paint, clear signal and reminder about the rules.Parking rates did not change:
- 2/hr for standard locations
- AED 3/hr for premium spaces
But the way you pay has changed. You can no longer rely on SMS or meter in many places. The DARB app is now the main tool to handle both parking and toll payments in Abu Dhabi.Forget to pay through Darb? You will probably receive a fine. So, the app is now the same as your driving license or registration card.
What is new in parking areas?
Here are updated areas where payment parking has now been implemented:
- Eastern mangroves
- Dolphin park
- Al Khaleej al Arabic Street (Zone 1, 2, 4, 5)
- Al Kurm Plaza
You show upgraded karb, painted lines and digital signage showing if there is a zone standard or premium. So before you get out of your car, check the signals and open your app.
What is Darb App?
The DARB app is the official tool of Abu Dhabi to pay parking fee and toll fee. It replaces old methods such as SMS or cash payment in many areas. The city has recently added new paid parking zones, so the app is now necessary if you want to park legally and avoid penalty.
How to use Darb App?
Step 1: Download the appThe app is available on store or Google Play. Independent to install.Step 2: Register your accountSign up with your email and mobile number, then enter your Emirates ID or traffic file number. Confirm with an SMS code.Step 3: Add your vehicle
- Abu Dhabi -Manager Cars appear automatically.
- Other Emirates or GCC cars may require support.
- AED 100 setup per vehicle (AED 50 goes to your wallet).
Step 4: Set your walletTop it using a credit card or a mavkef prepaid card. This wallet is used for both toll and parking payments.Step 5: Pay for ParkingIn the app, tap “Pay for Parking” → Choose your car → Select Zone and Period → Confirm. Done.Step 6: Manage toll feeToll gates charge 4 per crossing during peak hours (7–9 and 5–7 pm).Friday and public holidays are independent. There is a monthly cap:
- 200 for your first car
- Aed 150 for another
- Aed 100 for additional people
Step 7: Track penalty and get alertThe app shows unpaid toll, parking fine, and appeals to you or pays them directly.
Why does it matter
Skipping Darb can spend you. In the wrong area, there is a fine from the payment or parking left, sometimes without more warning. Q mobility, the right of the app has made it clear:“Drivers should follow the signals posted and use the DARB app for all payments.”If you are used to pay with SMS or to estimate your parking time, that approach will no longer work.
questions to ask
- 1. Do I need Darb if I only park sometime?
Yes. Even if it is once a week, if you park in a payment area without using DARB, you can get a fine.
- 2. Can I still use SMS to pay for parking?
Not in all areas. Some places have gone completely into app-based payments. Darb app is the most reliable way.
- 3. What if I am driving a Dubai or GCC-plated car?
You can still register on DARB. But you may need to call your vehicle manually or call customer service to get a traffic file number. After using the toll gate you have a 10-working-day grace period.