Salik tags and toll gates
Salik is Dubai's road toll system. Every car needs a tag; AED 4 per gate (AED 6 at peak hours on busy gates).
Salik is the RTA's automated road toll system. Every privately-registered vehicle in Dubai needs a Salik tag stuck to the windscreen.
How it works
- You pre-load credit to your Salik account (via the Salik app, RTA app, or kiosks).
- Each pass under a Salik gate automatically deducts AED 4 — or AED 6 at peak hours on the gates that have introduced dynamic pricing.
- Topping up is fast; running out triggers fines if you keep driving past gates.
Where the gates are
Salik gates are spread across Sheikh Zayed Road (the main spine), Al Maktoum Bridge, Airport Tunnel, and a handful of arterial roads. Newer gates have opened in 2024–2025 in line with traffic-management upgrades.
Practical tips
- Set up auto top-up via the app — it's the easiest way to avoid fines.
- If you change cars, transfer the tag rather than leaving it on the old vehicle (or you'll keep paying).
- Rental cars: the rental company passes the tolls back to you, sometimes with a small admin fee.
Sources: Salik, RTA announcements.
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