Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced substantial changes to Salik toll rates and parking fees, set to take effect in early 2025. These modifications aim to optimize traffic management and generate additional revenue for the city’s transportation infrastructure.
Salik Toll Rate Adjustments
Starting at the end of January 2025, Salik toll rates during peak hours will increase from AED 4 to AED 6. Peak hours are defined as 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, the toll will remain at AED 4, except on public holidays or during major events. Meanwhile, off-peak hours will continue to have the standard AED 4 charge, and tolls will remain free between 1:00 AM and 6:00 AM.
Peak Hour Pricing
- Toll rates during rush hours will increase from Dhs4 to Dhs6
- Rush hours defined as 6am to 10am and 4pm to 8pm
- Sundays will maintain a flat rate of Dhs4, except during public holidays or major events
Off-Peak and Night-Time Rates
- Off-peak hours will continue to charge Dhs4
- Tolls remain free from 1am to 6am
New Salik Gate Locations
To further manage traffic flow, two new Salik gates will be installed. These gates will be located at the Business Bay Crossing on Al Khail Road and Al Safa South on Sheikh Zayed Road. These additions are expected to distribute traffic more evenly across Dubai’s road network, particularly during high-demand times.
The RTA will introduce two additional Salik gates:
- Business Bay Crossing on Al Khail Road
- Al Safa South on Sheikh Zayed Road
Parking Cost Increases
Premium and Public Parking Rates: Parking fees will also see adjustments in 2025. Starting in March, premium parking spaces will cost AED 6 per hour during peak hours, while public parking spots will charge AED 4 per hour during the same period. Off-peak rates will remain unchanged, and free parking will still be available from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM and all day on Sundays.
Effective from March 2025
- Premium parking spaces: Dhs6 per hour during peak hours
- Public parking spots: Dhs4 during peak hours
- Off-peak rates will remain unchanged
- Free parking continues from 10pm to 8am and on Sundays
Special Zone Pricing
- Dubai World Trade Centre parking will increase to Dhs25 per hour starting February 2025
For specific zones like the Dubai World Trade Centre, parking fees will increase to AED 25 per hour, starting as early as February 2025.
Financial Context
Salik’s recent financial performance provides context for these changes:
- Q3 2024 profit: Dhs277.3m (8.8% annual increase)
- Nine-month net profit: Dhs822m
- Toll use revenue increased by 5.1% to Dhs1.42bn
Key Takeaways
The new pricing strategy reflects the RTA’s dual objectives of:
- Managing traffic congestion
- Generating revenue for transportation infrastructure improvements
Residents and commuters should prepare for these changes and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Important Dates
- Salik toll rate changes: End of January 2025
- Parking rate increases: End of March 2025 (with Dubai World Trade Centre seeing changes in February)
Note: Travelers are advised to stay updated on official RTA communications for the most current information.
With the new pricing structure, the RTA aims to balance traffic management with funding improvements for Dubai’s transportation system. Residents and commuters are encouraged to plan their journeys accordingly and stay updated on official RTA communications to ensure a smooth transition.
