UAE Salik: How the Toll System Works and How Much It Costs
Salik is Dubai’s electronic road toll system, operated by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Unlike traditional toll booths, Salik uses RFID technology to charge drivers automatically as they pass under toll gates. Since its introduction in 2007, Salik has expanded significantly across Dubai’s road network and is a routine part of daily commuting for millions of residents and visitors. This guide explains how Salik works, where the toll gates are, how much it costs, and how to manage your account.
How Salik Works
Salik operates using a small RFID tag fixed to the inside of your windscreen. As your vehicle passes under a Salik gate, the tag is scanned and AED 6 is automatically deducted from your prepaid Salik account. The system works without slowing down — you drive through at normal road speed. Salik tags are vehicle-specific and linked to your account. If your account has insufficient balance, you are not charged at the gate but a fine is issued for the deficient amount.
Salik Toll Gate Locations in Dubai 2026
- Al Maktoum Bridge (both directions)
- Al Garhoud Bridge (both directions)
- Al Safa (Sheikh Zayed Road, both directions)
- Al Barsha (Sheikh Zayed Road, both directions)
- Airport Tunnel
- Al Mamzar
- Al Rashidiya
- Meryal
- Al Atain
Salik Costs and Charges
The standard Salik toll charge is AED 6 per passage through each gate. There is no daily cap on charges — each passage is charged individually. Drivers who use multiple Salik gates during their commute will be charged for each one separately. For example, a daily commute that passes through Al Barsha and Al Safa gates both ways could cost up to AED 24 per day, or around AED 480 per month for a working month of 20 days. New Salik accounts require a minimum balance of AED 100 when registering.
Salik Fines and Violations
Driving through a Salik gate without a tag or with insufficient balance results in a fine of AED 50 per gate for the first offence, escalating for repeated violations. Fines can be paid via the RTA app, Salik website, or RTA service centres. Outstanding Salik fines must be cleared before renewing your vehicle registration.
How to Top Up Salik
- RTA app: Available on iOS and Android. Recharge via credit/debit card or Apple/Google Pay.
- Salik website: Account management and top-up at salik.ae
- RTA service centres: In-person top-up and account management
- Petrol stations: ENOC and ESHQ stations across Dubai
- Auto-recharge: Set up automatic top-up when balance drops below a set threshold