If you’re a driver navigating the bustling streets of Dubai, chances are you’ve encountered a Salik toll gate at some point. The city’s traffic can become quite hectic, especially during rush hours when vehicles are often bumper to bumper. One innovative solution that Dubai has implemented to alleviate congestion on its busy roads is the automated Salik toll collection system. This smart system automatically deducts toll fees from your account as you drive through the gates, providing a seamless experience for motorists.
For newcomers to Dubai, or those who prefer to be budget-conscious, understanding the toll system can be somewhat overwhelming. With recent updates to the rules by Salik, it’s the perfect time for a refresher on everything you need to know about Salik. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of obtaining a Salik tag, the costs associated with toll gates, the locations of these gates, and how to manage fines effectively.
How do I get a Salik toll gate tag?
Acquiring a Salik tag is essential for all drivers in Dubai. Without a valid Salik tag displayed in your vehicle, you risk incurring significant fines each time you pass through a toll gate after the initial 10-day grace period. Fortunately, obtaining a tag is a straightforward process. You can simply visit the official Salik website, fill in your details, and pay the required fee.
To get started, you’ll need to provide your T.C number from your vehicle license card, specify the emirate you reside in, indicate the category of your vehicle plate, and enter your plate code and number. The cost of a Salik tag is Dhs100, of which Dhs50 will be credited to your account upon activation. If you opt to apply online, an additional fee of Dhs20 will be charged.
How much does it cost to go through a Salik toll gate?
Typically, passing through a Salik toll gate will cost you Dhs4. However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. For example, on weekday evenings and throughout the day on Sundays, vehicles crossing the Al Maktoum Bridge on Umm Hurair Road are exempt from toll fees when the Floating Bridge is closed. Additionally, if you pass through both Al Mamzar North and Al Mamzar South within the same hour, the second toll will be waived.
You can easily top up your Salik account using various methods, including text messages, the Salik helpline, kiosks, ATMs, mobile apps, and the Salik website. Looking ahead, the RTA has announced plans to consider dynamic pricing during peak hours, which may lead to increased toll fees in particularly congested areas.
Where are the Salik toll gates in Dubai?
As of now, there are ten strategically placed Salik toll gates across Dubai, with two additional gates expected to be added by November 2024. The current locations of the toll gates include:
- Al Barsha
- Al Garhoud Bridge
- Al Maktoum Bridge
- Al Mamzar North
- Al Mamzar South
- Al Safa
- Al Safa South
- Airport Tunnel
- Business Bay
- Jebel Ali
Notably, there is also a Salik toll gate on the route leading out of Dubai International Airport (DXB).
What are the fines?
If you pass through a toll gate with insufficient funds in your account to cover the Dhs4 fee, and fail to settle the amount within five business days, you will incur a fine of Dhs50 for each subsequent passage. However, there is a cap of one violation per day. If you drive through a Salik toll gate without a valid registered tag after the initial 10-day grace period, you will face fines each time you pass through. The fines are structured as follows: Dhs200 for the first offense, Dhs200 for the second, and Dhs400 for each subsequent offense thereafter. In cases where drivers tamper with their tags or cause damage to a Salik toll gate, the fine can be as high as Dhs10,000.
According to the latest regulations, the maximum total of fines a motorist can accumulate in one year is capped at Dhs10,000. To avoid additional fines, it is crucial that you notify Salik within 90 days if your tag is found to be defective. Salik will replace defective tags free of charge. If your tag is lost or stolen, immediate notification to Salik is required, at which point your tag will be deactivated, and you will need to purchase a new one.
How do I fight a toll gate fine?
If you find yourself facing a fine on your traffic record that you wish to contest, you must do so within 13 months of the fine’s issuance. Disputing the fine can be done online or via the Salik app by selecting the relevant fines and adding them to a dispute list. In order to pursue a dispute, you will need to provide details regarding your case. After submitting your dispute, you will receive an application reference number. Salik will then investigate your claim, and you can expect to receive a text message with the final decision within 15 days.
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