Salik announces new toll pricing for Ramadan

Dubai's Salik toll gate system is introducing dynamic pricing, designed to improve traffic flow and offer more flexibility for commuters. Set to go live by the end of January, the new pricing structure seeks to reduce congestion on Dubai's busiest roads.

Currently, Salik charges a flat AED 4 per entry. However, starting January 31, this will change to a variable pricing system tailored to match traffic patterns throughout the day.

What’s changing in the new pricing structure?

The most notable shift is from a flat toll to a system that adjusts based on the time of day. Here’s what drivers can expect:

• Peak hours (6 a.m.–10 a.m. and 4 p.m.–8 p.m.): Drivers will be charged AED 6 during these high-traffic periods.
• Off-peak (10 a.m.–4 p.m.): The toll will remain AED 4, offering relief during less busy times.
• Late night to early morning (12 a.m.–6 a.m.): Toll charges will be waived, allowing for free passage during these hours.
• Sundays: Between 7 a.m. and 2 a.m., the toll will remain AED 4. From 2 a.m. to 7 a.m., gates will be free.

This dynamic pricing system is intended to optimize traffic flow, encouraging drivers to travel during less congested times while managing peak-hour traffic.

Special Ramadan adjustments for 2025

In addition to the general pricing changes, Salik will implement specific adjustments for Ramadan, expected to begin around March 30 or 31 this year. These modifications aim to support those observing the holy month.

For Ramadan, Salik will tweak its new toll structure to align with the fasting schedule:

• Free toll hours (2am–7am): Drivers passing through any of the 10 toll gates between 2am and 7am will not incur any charges. This allows those observing Ramadan to travel to and from sunrise prayers without worrying about toll fees.
• Reduced fees during morning rush hour (7am–9am): For those heading out in the morning, the toll fee will be AED 4 instead of AED 6, making the morning commute a little more affordable.
• Peak traffic (9am–5pm): As is the case for the rest of the year, during these peak hours, drivers will pay AED 6 for using the toll gates.
• Evening adjustment (5pm–2am): A slight reduction in toll charges for the evening commute, with drivers paying AED 4 instead of the usual AED 6, providing some relief during the evening rush hours.

Key changes for Ramadan toll pricing:

• 2am–7am (Daily): Free
• 7am–9am (Weekdays): AED4
• 9am–5pm (Weekdays): AED 6
• 5pm–2am (Weekdays): AED 4
• Sundays: 7am–2am: AED 4, 2am–7am: Free

This updated structure demonstrates Salik’s commitment to providing a tailored driving experience, accommodating the needs of residents during Ramadan while effectively managing city traffic.