The roads and Transport Authority (RTA) recommended the implementation of the Variable Road Toll Pricing (Salik) and the Variable Parking Tariff Policies in 2025 as part of the city’s “comprehensive strategy to enhance traffic flow”. 

Some drivers might change their routines, waking up earlier to avoid the tolls and others may choose the off-peak hour charges. Many residents are worried about the impact on their household budgets, especially those who have a fixed office and classes scheduled. While also, consider requesting an additional transport allowance to offset the toll cost, while others plan to switch to carpooling or public transportation. 

Updated Salik and Parking Charges: 

The updated Salik will be in operation by the end of January 2025. The motorists will have the opportunity of the toll-free passage between 1 am and 6 am.

• On weekdays, the toll will be Dh6 during morning peak hours (from 6 am to 10 am) and evening peak hours (4 pm to 8 pm). 

• For off-peak hours – between 10 am and 4 pm, and from 8 pm to 1 am – the toll will be Dh4 (same as the current charge). 

• On Sundays, excluding public holidays, special occasions, or major events, the toll will be Dh4 throughout the day and free from 1 am to 6 am. 

New parking charges:

By the end of March 2025, new parking fees will be DH6 per hour for premium parking spaces and DH4 per hour for other paid public parking spaces during morning rush hours (8 am to 10 am) and evening peak hours (4 pm to 8 pm). 

• 
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

• 
  

  
  

  The tariffs will remain unchanged during off-peak hours – from 10 am to 4 pm, and from 8 pm to 10 pm.

• Premium Parking Spaces — Peak Hours (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM): AED 6/hour

• Other Parking Spaces — Peak Hours (6:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM): AED 4/hour  

• Off-Peak Hours (10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM): No changes; existing rates apply.  

• Night-Time (10:00 PM – 8:00 AM) and Sundays: Free parking will continue during these hours. 

Also read: Is Mahindra's New XEV and BE Electric SUV's coming to Dubai?

Effects of these changes: 

For regular commuters, the Salik peak charges mean it is even more important to plan ahead. Traveling during non-peak hours can save you AED 2 per crossing, which can add up if you use Salik multiple times a day. This is especially important for those who frequently travel along Sheikh Zayed Road, where there are several toll gates.

Leisure Driver

For casual drivers, you have good news, the AED 4 per crossing will stay the same during non-peak hours and if you are a night owl, you can enjoy free Salik between 1:00 AM and 6:00 AM,  making late night drive more affordable. 

Event Attendees 

Now if you are going to attend major events like those at the DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE, you need to be ready to pay AED25 per hour parking fees. While it is actually high, it is there to reduce traffic and encourage the use of public transport. It might be a good idea to park farther away and use public transport to get to the event. 

Best Tips to save the charges:

• Use public transportation- try to use metro and bus services, which are affordable and also come under the hassle-free option. 

• Carpool - carpools make it easy to share rides with colleagues or friends to cut down your costs and reduce traffic congestion

• Travel off-peak—if possible, avoid traveling during the peak Salik hours to save on toll fees.

• Plan your parking - also, keep in mind to try to park outside the peak hours to save on the parking fees. 

Reason Behind for the Charges: 

The RTA’s charges have the aim to make Dubai come up with less crowded and more efficient. As the city is growing as a global hotspot for tourism, business, and events managing traffic has become more important than ever. 

The reason behind the pricing for Salik and the parking has been designed to enourage people to travel during the off-peak hours. It also supports Dubai's sustainability goals by promoting the use of public transport. 

 FAQ - 

1- What are the current Salik charges per trip?

Ans. - AED 4 per crossing; from February 2025 the peak hours will cost AED 6, off peak AED 4 and free from 1.00AM to 6.00AM daily.

2- How can I pay for  RTA parking?

Ans. - You can pay via SMS, RTA Smart App, Noi card, or parking meters.

3- When will the updated Salik charges come to effect?

Ans. - By the end of January 2025. 

4- What is the cost of a new Salik Tag? 

Ans. - AED 100, including AED 50 for the tag and AED 50 as toll balance. 

Also read :

• Exploring the UAEs Top Petrol Stations: Convenience, Innovation, and Beyond
• 
  

Check Out These Awesome Gas Stations to Fuel Your UAE Adventure!