Abu Dhabi's Road Toll System Overhaul

Abu Dhabi's Road Toll System Overhaul: New Timing and Unlimited Charges from September 1st

Abu Dhabi's transportation system will undergo significant changes starting September 1st, 2025. The capital's transport authority announced adjustments to the Darb road toll timing and the removal of daily and monthly payment caps. The decision aims to improve traffic flow, reduce peak-time congestion, and optimize efficiency for city entry and exit.

What's changing from September 1st?

The key modification is the extension of the toll period in the evening. Instead of the current 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM window, the new toll window will run from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Monday to Saturday. The morning toll period (usually 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) remains unchanged. Sundays and official holidays will continue to be toll-free.

This decision targets more efficient management of traffic during peak periods. Transport authority analyses indicate that afternoon congestion often begins around 3:00 PM, particularly during school and work commuting times.

Abolishing Daily and Monthly Caps

The other major change is the elimination of the daily and monthly upper toll caps. Previously, the first vehicle faced a daily maximum of 16 dirhams, with a monthly cap of 200 dirhams. For the second vehicle, the monthly limit was 150 dirhams, while for the third and subsequent vehicles, it was 100 dirhams.

From September 1st, however, motorists will pay 4 dirhams for each pass through a toll gate, with no upper limit. This means that frequent travelers through the gates will incur charges for each crossing. This decision particularly impacts those who regularly commute across various parts of the city.

Who is unaffected by the change?

It's crucial to note that existing exemption rules remain valid. The following groups are exempt from paying the toll:

people with disabilities (People of Determination),

low-income families,

elderly individuals,

retirees.

These groups can continue to enjoy toll exemptions, provided they register their eligibility through the official Darb system.

What is the Darb System?

Introduced in 2021 in Abu Dhabi, the Darb system was designed to enhance traffic management and reduce urban congestion. Currently, eight toll gates operate on the city's main bridges, regulating transit between downtown and suburban areas.

Using Darb is simple: drivers register an online account linked with their license plate and a payment method. The system automatically charges the toll when a vehicle passes through a toll gate. The new regulation does not change the system's operation, only its timing and payment structure.

Why the change?

The authorities aim to manage traffic congestion more effectively with these modifications. The previous capped system did not sufficiently incentivize drivers to travel outside peak times, as further travel became free after reaching maximum daily or monthly fees.

The new uncapped system, however, may prompt commuters to travel at alternative times, use public transport, or reconsider the necessity of their journeys. With this decision, Abu Dhabi moves towards more sustainable and smarter urban mobility.

Challenges and Expectations

While the objective is understandable, there may be resistance from some residents, especially those who travel through Darb gates daily. Affected individuals could face significantly increased costs if they cannot avoid toll periods or routes.

However, the transport authority emphasized that the long-term benefits serve the overall public interest. Reducing traffic congestion not only decreases travel time but also contributes to lower air pollution and fuel consumption.

Possible Future Steps

The change also serves as an experimental move: Authorities are expected to monitor the new system's impact on traffic and may introduce further adjustments in the future. It's not ruled out that new exemption categories may emerge, or individual caps may be introduced for certain professional groups.

Summary

From September 1st, Abu Dhabi embarks on a new phase in urban transport regulation. The changes in the Darb road toll system—including the extension of the evening period and the removal of toll caps—will impact vehicle travel, particularly during peak times. The aim is clear: reduce traffic, enable faster commutes, and promote sustainable urban mobility. Residents should prepare for these changes and consider how to optimize their daily routes.

(The article source is the Integrated Transport Centre communiqué.)