Toll roads are an increasingly important part of driving in the UAE. Whether you’re navigating Dubai’s Salik system, using the newer Darb scheme in Abu Dhabi, or crossing certain inter-emirate routes, understanding how these systems work — and what happens when your tag has no balance — saves you from unexpected fines and penalties. This complete guide covers everything UAE drivers need to know about toll roads in 2026.
Dubai’s Salik System
Salik is Dubai’s open-road tolling system, operated by RTA (Roads and Transport Authority). All vehicles pass through toll gates without stopping — the system reads an RFID tag mounted inside the vehicle’s windscreen and deducts the toll automatically.
Salik Gate Locations in Dubai
- Al Maktoum Bridge (crossing Deira/Bur Dubai)
- Al Garhoud Bridge
- Al Safa (on Sheikh Zayed Road)
- Al Barsha (on Sheikh Zayed Road)
- Al Mamzar (on Ittihad Road)
- Al Rashidiya (on Airport Road)
- Al Shindagha (Tunnel entrance)
- Latifa Hospital (Business Bay area)
Salik Toll Charges 2026
Each Salik gate crossing costs AED 6 per passage. There is a minimum account balance requirement. If your Salik balance falls below AED 0, you will be charged an additional AED 10 penalty per trip through any gate.
How to Top Up Your Salik Account
- RTA website: rta.ae
- RTA app: available on iOS and Android
- Emirates NBD, ADCB, DIB and other UAE bank websites and branches
- Carrefour, ENOC and ADNOC service stations
- Salik kiosks at RTA service centres
- Nol Card top-up machines across Dubai Metro stations
What Happens if Your Salik Balance Runs Out?
If your Salik account reaches zero or goes negative, each subsequent toll gate crossing incurs an AED 10 penalty in addition to the AED 6 toll. Accumulated Salik fines count as traffic violations and must be cleared before vehicle registration (Mulkiya) renewal. Setting up auto top-up through your bank or the RTA app is strongly recommended to avoid penalties.
Abu Dhabi’s Darb Toll System
Abu Dhabi launched the Darb paid parking and toll system as part of its traffic management strategy. Unlike Salik, Darb covers certain paid roads and zones within Abu Dhabi city rather than specific bridge crossings. Vehicles require a Darb RFID tag for seamless passage.
- Darb tags can be purchased online via the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) website or the Darb app
- Toll charges vary by zone and time of day
- Motorists without a Darb tag may be issued violation notices captured by cameras
Inter-Emirate Toll Roads
Some inter-emirate routes in the UAE have been designated as toll roads or are in development as toll road projects. Always check for updated RTA and local transport authority announcements before planning long inter-emirate drives, as toll infrastructure continues to expand across the country.
Tips for UAE Toll Road Users
- Register your vehicle’s number plate to a Salik or Darb account immediately after vehicle registration or purchase
- Set up auto top-up to ensure your account never falls below the minimum balance
- If you are renting a vehicle in the UAE, confirm with the rental company whether the car has a Salik tag and how toll charges will be billed to you
- Pay any outstanding Salik or Darb violations before your Mulkiya renewal due date to avoid registration rejection
- International visitors should confirm with their car hire provider whether toll charges will be automatically added to the rental bill
Frequently Asked Questions
Do rental cars in UAE have Salik tags?
Most major rental companies in the UAE equip their vehicles with Salik tags. Toll charges are typically billed directly to your rental agreement, often with an administrative fee added. Confirm this with your rental provider at collection.
What happens if I drive through a Salik gate without a tag?
Vehicles without a registered Salik tag that pass through a gate are identified by cameras and the registered owner receives a violation notice. This functions as a debt against the vehicle’s traffic file and must be cleared before Mulkiya renewal.
Can I use the same Salik tag on a different vehicle?
No. Salik tags are vehicle-specific — they are registered to a specific number plate. If you change vehicles, you must obtain and register a new tag for the new vehicle.
How long does it take to receive a Salik tag after ordering online?
Salik tags ordered through the RTA website are typically delivered within 3–5 business days to a Dubai address. Tags can also be collected in person from RTA service centres for immediate use.