As of early 2025, Dubai has introduced a dynamic pricing system for its Salik toll gates — a significant change that affects all drivers, including tourists and residents renting cars. If you’re planning to drive in Dubai, understanding these updates is crucial to managing your travel costs and avoiding surprises on your rental bill.

Overview of the Salik System

Dubai’s Salik system is an automatic toll collection network using RFID tags. Every time your car passes under a Salik gate, a fee is deducted. As of 2025, there are 10 toll gates across the city, including key routes like:

• Al Mamzar North & South

• Al Garhoud Bridge

• Al Maktoum Bridge

• Airport Tunnel

• Al Safa

• Al Barsha

• Jebel Ali

• Business Bay Crossing (new)

• Al Safa South (new)

These gates are strategically located along Sheikh Zayed Road and other major arteries, meaning avoiding Salik entirely is often impractical — but costs can be managed smartly.

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New Dynamic Pricing Explained

Previously, every crossing cost a flat AED 4. Starting January 31, 2025, the fee now varies based on time of day and day of the week:

Weekdays (Monday–Saturday):

• Peak hours (6:00–10:00 & 16:00–20:00): AED 6

• Off-peak (10:00–16:00 & 20:00–1:00): AED 4

• Late-night (1:00–6:00): Free

Sundays:

• AED 4 at any time

• Free from 1:00 to 6:00 AM

Ramadan (Special Hours):

• Peak: 9:00–17:00 – AED 6

• Off-peak: 7:00–9:00 & 17:00–2:00 – AED 4

• Free: 2:00–7:00 AM
  
  (Same AED 4 flat rate all day on Sundays during Ramadan)

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Special Rules for Certain Gates

Some adjacent gates, such as Al Mamzar North & South or Al Safa, are treated as a single toll zone if crossed in the same direction within one hour. You’ll be charged only once — a welcome feature for drivers making short commutes through multiple nearby gates.

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Why This Matters to Car Renters

For tourists and expats renting vehicles in Dubai, these changes have practical consequences:

• You may pay more than before. During peak hours, each gate now costs AED 6 — a 50% increase.

• Night and Sunday drives are cheaper. If you’re planning airport runs, road trips, or shopping routes, aim for off-peak or Sunday timing.

• Rental companies pass Salik costs to renters. Plus, many add a handling fee. Staying informed helps you avoid unexpected charges.

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Tips to Save on Salik Charges

1. Avoid peak times when possible — especially if your route includes multiple toll gates.

2. Plan longer drives on Sundays or after 8 PM for lower tolls.

3. Use free bridges or detours if convenient (e.g., Floating Bridge, Business Bay Crossing at certain times).

4. Monitor your Salik tag balance if using your own vehicle, or ask your rental provider for usage updates.

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Final Thoughts

Dubai’s introduction of dynamic Salik pricing is designed to ease congestion and promote smarter traffic flows — but it also means drivers must stay alert to the new cost structure. Whether you’re a resident commuter or a short-term renter, understanding the toll schedule can save you real money.

Ready to explore Dubai by car? Visit RentRadar.ae to find rental deals, plan smart routes, and stay in control of your driving experience — Salik and all.