Dubai’s rapid growth has led to increased traffic, necessitating efficient road management systems. One such initiative is Salik, the city’s electronic toll collection system. For those new to Dubai or unfamiliar with its toll operations, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of understanding Salik and offers insights on how to check your Salik balance.
What is Salik?
Salik, meaning “clear and moving” in Arabic, is Dubai’s electronic toll system introduced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in 2007. Utilizing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, Salik automatically deducts toll fees when vehicles pass through designated toll gates, ensuring a seamless flow of traffic without the need for stopping. citeturn0search24
How Does Salik Work?
The system operates on a simple mechanism:
- Salik Tag: Vehicle owners must purchase a Salik tag, a small sticker embedded with an RFID chip, which is affixed to the windshield. This tag is linked to a prepaid Salik account. citeturn0search1
- Toll Gates: As vehicles pass under Salik toll gates, the system reads the RFID tag and automatically deducts the toll fee from the associated account. citeturn0search24
- Toll Charges: Each passage through a Salik toll gate incurs a charge of 4 AED. citeturn0search4
Salik Toll Gate Locations
As of December 2018, there are eight Salik toll gates strategically located across Dubai:
- Al Garhoud Bridge Toll Gate: Manages traffic between Deira and Bur Dubai.
- Al Barsha Toll Gate: Located near the Mall of the Emirates on Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Al Safa Toll Gate: Positioned near Safa Park on Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Al Maktoum Bridge Toll Gate: Connects Umm Hurair and Deira.
- Al Mamzar North Toll Gate: Situated on Al-Ittihad Road.
- Al Mamzar South Toll Gate: Also on Al-Ittihad Road, complementing the North gate.
- Airport Tunnel Toll Gate: Facilitates traffic near Dubai International Airport.
- Jebel Ali Toll Gate: Located near the Energy Metro Station close to Ibn Battuta Mall.
Setting Up Your Salik Account
To get started with Salik:
- Purchase a Salik Tag: Available for 100 AED, which includes a 50 AED balance pre-loaded onto the tag.
- Register the Tag: Upon purchase, the tag is automatically registered to your vehicle. Ensure that all details are correct to avoid discrepancies.
- Affix the Tag: Place the Salik tag on the inside of your windshield, behind the rearview mirror, ensuring it’s clearly visible and can be easily scanned at toll gates.
How to Check Your Salik Balance
Maintaining a sufficient balance in your Salik account is crucial to avoid fines. Here are the primary methods to check your Salik balance:
Smart Salik App:
- Download the App: Available for both iOS and Android devices.
- Log In: Use your account number and PIN.
- View Balance: Access the ‘Check Balance’ feature to view your current balance. citeturn0search5
Website:
- Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the balance inquiry section.
- Enter Details: Provide your Salik account number and PIN.
- Check Balance: Your current balance will be displayed on the screen. citeturn0search1
Toll-Free Number:
- Dial 800 SALIK (72545): Follow the automated instructions.
- Provide Necessary Information: Enter your account number and other required details.
- Receive Balance Information: Your current balance will be communicated. citeturn0search7
Salik Kiosks:
- Locate a Kiosk: Salik kiosks are available at various locations across Dubai.
- Use the Touchscreen Interface: Enter your account details.
- View Balance: Your balance will be displayed on the screen. citeturn0search9
Recharging Your Salik Account
To ensure uninterrupted travel, it’s essential to maintain a positive balance. Here are ways to recharge your Salik account:
- Online Recharge:
- Through the Salik Website: Log in to your account and select the recharge option.
- Via the Smart Salik App: Use the app’s recharge feature for quick top-ups.
- Bank Services:
- Online Banking: Many banks in the UAE offer Salik recharge services through their online banking platforms.
- ATMs: Some ATMs provide Salik recharge options.
- Retail Outlets:
- Petrol Stations: Stations like ENOC and EPPCO offer Salik recharge cards.
- Supermarkets: Selected supermarkets provide recharge services.
- Salik Kiosks:
- Self-Service Machines: Located at various points in Dubai, these kiosks allow for quick recharges using cash or card. citeturn0search1
Important Considerations
- No Daily Cap: Initially, there was a maximum daily charge of 24 AED per vehicle. However, as of July 1, 2013, this cap has been removed, meaning all toll gate passages are charged without a daily limit. citeturn0search24
- Vehicle-Specific Tags: The Salik tag is linked to the vehicle, not the owner. If you change vehicles or replace your windshield, you’ll need to purchase a new tag.
- Fines for Insufficient Balance: Passing through a toll gate without sufficient balance can result in fines. Regularly check your Salik balance to ensure it’s adequately funded.
- Exemptions: Certain vehicles, such as ambulances and police cars, are exempt from Salik charges. Additionally, during specific times, some toll gates may not charge fees. For instance, the Al Maktoum Bridge toll gate is free when the Floating Bridge is closed during the night. citeturn0search24
Conclusion
Understanding and effectively managing your Salik account is essential for smooth navigation through Dubai’s toll roads. By familiarizing yourself with the system, regularly checking your balance, and ensuring timely recahrge.
