How Salik Works in Dubai: Toll Gates, Charges & Payment

Getting around Dubai with Salik - the essentials

Moving to Dubai means learning how Salik works so you can drive confidently from day one. Salik is the city’s barrier-free toll system that uses license plate recognition to charge you automatically as you pass under gantries on major roads. If you are planning your relocation, understanding fees, peak times, and the new airport parking integration will help you budget smartly and avoid surprises.

What you will pay and where - clear rules for drivers

Salik is a fully electronic Open Road Tolling system that keeps traffic flowing without booths or barriers. It recognises your plate and deducts the fee from your Salik account or e-wallet, processing around 1.5 million transactions each day across more than a million active accounts. Dubai continues to expand free-flow coverage, including additional gates on Ittihad Road and the Airport Tunnel, which have cut off-peak travel times while allowing maintenance above the roadway so lanes stay open.

From 31 January 2026, dynamic pricing applies. Expect AED 6 during peak hours on weekdays and AED 4 off-peak, with Sundays and public holidays at a flat AED 4. Free hours run nightly from 1 AM to 6 AM, and during Ramadan they shift to 2 AM to 7 AM to better serve fasting commuters. These timings help reduce congestion on corridors like Sheikh Zayed Road and guide drivers toward less busy windows.

Salik pricing at a glance

Airport parking with Salik

Dubai International Airport parking is going ticketless using the Salik e-wallet. At every terminal and cargo facility, cameras scan plates at entry and exit and deduct parking fees from your Salik balance. This reduces queues and paper waste and makes arrivals smoother. If you rent a car, link the rental plate to your account before you drive to avoid delays or surcharges. Keep your e-wallet topped up so both tolls and parking process automatically.

Quick win: travel off-peak for AED 4 and use free night hours to cut both time and cost.

How ARK helps you drive and settle faster

Relocating is simpler when you have a partner who understands Dubai’s systems. ARK guides you through opening a Salik account, linking private or rental plates, and setting sensible auto top-up rules so you never get caught short. As part of your wider move, we coordinate driving licence conversion, car registration, and insurance, alongside your business setup and visas. You focus on life and work - we keep you compliant, mobile, and ready to move.

Your move - next steps

1. Decide your relocation timeline and preferred community in Dubai.
2. Open a UAE bank account or payment method for Salik top-ups.
3. Create a Salik account and link your plate or rental car plate.
4. Set auto top-up for your e-wallet and test it on a short route.
5. Plan commutes around peak and free hours to save AED and time.
6. Speak to ARK for end-to-end relocation, company setup, and visas.

Handy Dubai facts for drivers and newcomers

Dubai’s road network is modern, fast, and clearly signposted in English and Arabic. Many daily routes cross Salik gates on Sheikh Zayed Road and key corridors, so factor dynamic pricing into your budget. Public transport is strong, with the Metro, tram, and buses available via Nol card, useful when you want to skip peak traffic. Summers are hot, so plan vehicle maintenance and keep water in your car. During Ramadan, expect adjusted schedules and respectful practices across the city. With a little planning and Salik set up correctly, getting around is straightforward and efficient.