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You've been in Dubai for a time, hold a driving license, and now you've decided to start driving on the road. You've got a vehicle and are currently searching for motor insurance in Dubai and the UAE. Then, you shouldn't miss doing proper research on Salik!

 You haven't yet done any studies on Salik, right? You've overheard cab drivers spelling it, and your buddies have given you some background details, but you're still not sure what it means. Now fill up your knowledge gaps on Salik in Dubai with this article. Thank us later; it won't "take a toll" on you.

 Before we go ahead and tell you in detail about the Salik, let us also tell you that car insurance in Dubai and the UAE is very important to prevent financial burdens during accidents and theft. So, policyhouse.com, your trusted insurance partner, offers policies for 30,000+ motor insurance in Dubai and other emirates. Ensure that you have valid car insurance before driving on the road and facing new technologies, including Salik systems.

Defines SALIK

The name Salik, which in Arabic means "open or clear," is used to refer to Dubai's electronic toll road system. Salik deducts a price when a toll gate is passed beneath it and is based on RFID technology with an automatic working system. The Salik toll, which is regulated by the UAE government, was introduced by the Dubai RTA on July 1, 2007.

How Does it Function?

Based on RFID (or radio frequency technology), Salik runs without toll booths or obstacles and automatically deducts an amount already fixed when a toll gate is passed beneath it, ensuring that traffic movement is not impeded. The built-in RFID technology of the Salik toll gate, also called the Salik sensor, recognizes your car each time you pass through one and scans the Salik sticker tag you should have stuck to your windshield. When you register your vehicle for it, you must set up a prepaid account from which the applicable toll (AED 4 as of November 2022) is immediately withdrawn.

Toll Gates for Salik in Dubai & How to Set Them Up

There are 8 toll gates in Dubai, which are positioned tactically along main roads and highways like the south-to-north Sheikh Zayed Road. The locations of the toll gates are:

• Al Barsha

• Al Garhoud

• Al Maktoum

• Al Mamzar South

• Al Mamzar North

• Al Safa

• DXB International Airport Tunnel

• Jebel Ali

You can simply set up a Salik online. There’s an option to buy the "Salik" tag from an approved dealer or apply for it online through the official website of Salik. If you are proceeding to buy online, then create an account by entering your details, including your phone number and Salik Tag number. Following that, email and SMS notifications will be sent to confirm registration. You don’t have to slow down while passing through the toll gate. Salik system is intended to support regular, smooth traffic movement without causing any congestion, and maintain roads open. You must keep the normal speed on both main roads and highways.

What Happens if You Pass Through a Toll Gate Without a Salik Tag Yet?

The big relief is that the system will give you a 10-working-day grace period starting from the date and hour of your first journey. Be sure to get a valid Salik tag for your car and put it on (or, if you already have a Salik account, just add the new tag to it) at that time. If you comply within 10 working days, you're good to go; otherwise, the following fines will apply:

• The first trip passing a tollgate: AED100 (after 10 working days grace period)

• Second trip: AED200 (after 10 working days grace period)

• Each subsequent trip: AED400 (after 10 working days grace period)

Each violation is limited to one recorded per day.

What Happens if Your Account Balance is Insufficient?

Maintaining a full Salik account is crucial. Don’t worry! You have five working days from the date of your trip to reload your account if you accidentally pass through a toll gate without enough balance. If you fail to obey, you’ll get a fine of AED50 per vehicle each day in the case of a trip.

Is it Possible to Bypass the Salik Toll Gates?

Yes, you can avoid the Salik toll gates that are only placed on the main highways. Choose alternative routes for your journey to skip the toll. For further information, visit www.rta.ae, install the RTA Smart Drive App, or use the S'hail App. Now that you are familiar with the basics of Salik! Now, travel with confidence. Enjoy your drive!