TLDR:
Salik tolls to increase during peak hours.
New gates to ease Dubai’s traffic flow.
Parking charges rise alongside toll adjustments.
DUBAI (The Thursday Times) — Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a significant adjustment to Salik toll rates and parking fees, with new tariffs aimed at easing traffic congestion and enhancing the driving experience. These changes, effective from early 2025, reflect the city’s broader strategy to modernise its infrastructure and tackle growing commuter demands.
Adjustments to Salik tolls
Salik tolls will rise to Dhs6 during peak hours, up from the current Dhs4. Off-peak tolls will remain at Dhs4, with free access from 1am to 6am. The RTA has identified peak periods as 6am to 10am and 4pm to 8pm, with Sundays retaining a flat Dhs4 charge, barring public holidays or major events.
The increase coincides with the addition of two new Salik gates: one at Business Bay Crossing on Al Khail Road and the other at Al Safa South on Sheikh Zayed Road. These expansions aim to distribute traffic more effectively and alleviate bottlenecks across the city.
Revised parking fees
Parking fees will also see a substantial revision. Premium parking spaces will cost Dhs6 per hour during peak times, while public parking rates will rise to Dhs4 per hour. These adjustments will come into effect in March 2025, with free parking maintained from 10pm to 8am and on Sundays.
Around the Dubai World Trade Centre, a high-demand area, parking charges will escalate to Dhs25 per hour starting February 2025.
RTA’s strategy and financial context
The RTA’s decision follows Salik’s robust financial performance in 2024. The company reported an 8.8 per cent increase in third-quarter profits, reaching Dhs277.3m, with a nine-month net profit of Dhs822m. Toll revenue grew by over 5 per cent, highlighting the effectiveness of the existing network.
The new toll and parking policies are part of the RTA’s variable road tariff strategy, designed to optimise traffic flow and encourage public transport use. By refining these systems, the authority aims to reduce congestion and promote a sustainable urban environment.
Economic implications for drivers
While the changes are aimed at improving traffic management, they are expected to increase costs for frequent drivers. The higher toll rates and parking fees could incentivise commuters to explore alternatives such as carpooling, public transport, or adjusted travel schedules during off-peak hours.
For businesses reliant on regular travel through these areas, the adjustments may lead to increased operational expenses, prompting them to reassess logistics and planning.
