Dubai's New Dynamic Toll and Parking Rates
Dynamic Salik Toll Begins January 31: Free in Off-Peak
Significant changes are coming to Dubai's traffic system with the introduction of a dynamic toll system starting January 31, offering tariffs that adjust according to the traffic. With the new Salik rates, drivers have the possibility to pass through the city at reduced costs or even for free during certain periods.
New Tolls on Weekdays and Sundays
According to the new regulations, weekday peak hours will see toll rises to Dh6, while more favorable rates apply at other times:
Weekday peaks (Monday to Friday):
Morning peak: 6:00 – 10:00 -- Dh6
Afternoon peak: 16:00 – 20:00 -- Dh6
Weekdays off-peak:
10:00 – 16:00 and 20:00 – 1:00. -- Dh4
Sundays (except holidays and major events):
All day: Dh4
Free passage between 1:00 – 6:00
Ramadan Pricing
During the holy month, the Salik toll system applies different tariffs, taking into account the daily rhythm of the population:
Weekday peak hours during Ramadan:
9:00 – 17:00. -- Dh6
Weekday off-peak hours:
7:00 – 9:00 and 17:00 – 2:00 -- Dh4
Free passage:
2:00 – 7:00 Monday to Saturday
Sunday (except holidays and major events):
7:00 – 2:00 Dh4,
2:00 – 7:00 free of charge
Other Important Information
1. The Al Safa North and South gates and Al Mamzar North and South gates' tolls remain unchanged. If a driver passes through the charged gate in the same direction within an hour, they do not have to pay twice.
2. Currently, Salik charges a fixed Dh4 each time a vehicle passes through any of the city’s 10 toll gates.
New Parking Fees Starting March
In addition to the changes in the Salik toll system, Dubai is introducing a dynamic parking tariff system by the end of March 2025 to reduce traffic congestion.
New Parking Tariffs on Weekdays (Starting End of March 2025)
Premium parking spots (e.g., prime downtown and tourism areas):
Peak hours (8:00 – 10:00 and 16:00 – 20:00): Dh6/hour
Off-peak (10:00 – 16:00 and 20:00 – 22:00): Dh4/hour
Other paid parking spots:
Peak hours (8:00 – 10:00 and 16:00 – 20:00): Dh4/hour
Off-peak: unchanged
Free parking:
Night from 22:00 to 8:00, and all day on Sundays.
Congestion Charges in Event Zones
As part of traffic management policy, a new tariff will be implemented around major event areas:
Near event locations (e.g., Dubai World Trade Centre): Dh25/hour
Expected implementation start: February 2025
The goal of these changes is to reduce traffic congestion during critical times, optimize parking space utilization, and promote the use of alternative transportation solutions.
What Does This Mean for Drivers and Residents?
Dynamic pricing can inspire more flexible travel habits and help avoid peak times. The changes aim to balance traffic, optimize the use of transportation infrastructure, and reduce congestion and carbon emissions.
In addition to the changes, the Dubai Metro, the RTA bus network, and other public transportation options continue to offer competitive alternatives for commuting within the city.
If the dynamic toll and parking system proves successful, Dubai can become even more efficient and sustainable in terms of future transportation.
