Avoid Common Salik Fines in Dubai
Salik uses tags on your car to charge fees when you pass through toll gates. But if you make mistakes, you can get fines that add up quickly. In 2025, there are new changes like variable pricing and new gates, so it's important to stay updated to avoid extra costs.
Common Salik Violations and Fines
Here are the most common reasons:
Violation |
Description |
Fine Amount |
|
Insufficient Funds (ISF) |
Your Salik account doesn't have enough balance when you pass a gate, and you don't top up within 5 working days. |
AED 50 per day (one fine per day per vehicle) |
|
Unregistered Plate (URP) |
You drive through a toll without registering your vehicle and tag within 10 working days of your first trip. |
AED 100 (first offense), AED 200 (second), AED 400 (each after) |
|
Tampering or Damage |
Fraud, damaging, or tampering with the Salik tag or equipment. |
AED 10,000 (may include legal action) |
Updates to Salik Toll System
Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) made some big changes to Salik to reduce traffic jams and promote green driving. Here are the key updates:
- New Toll Gates: Added at Business Bay Crossing and Al Safa South on Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Variable Toll Rates: Fees now depend on the time of day to encourage off-peak travel.
Time Period |
Toll Rate |
|
Peak Hours (6:00 AM - 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM) |
AED 6 per pass |
|
Off-Peak Hours (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM - 1:00 AM) |
AED 4 per pass |
|
Toll-Free Hours (1:00 AM - 6:00 AM) |
Free |
|
Sundays |
AED 4 flat rate all day |
|
Ramadan and Holidays |
Special lower rates or exemptions (check RTA announcements) |
Exemptions for Electric Vehicles (EVs)
EVs can get free Salik tags for 5 years. No toll fees are deducted, but you still follow time-based rates in some cases. Register with RTA and show proof that your car is electric to qualify.
How to Avoid Salik Fines
Follow these simple tips:
- Keep Your Balance High: Always top up your Salik account before it runs low. Set up SMS alerts by updating your mobile number on the Salik website or app.
- Register Quickly: Buy and attach your Salik tag within 10 working days of your first toll pass.
- Travel Smart: Use off-peak or free hours to save on fees and avoid crowds.
- Use Alternatives: Take the metro, bus, or carpool. Or use apps to find routes without toll gates.
- Check Regularly: Use the Salik app, RTA app, or website to monitor your account and fines.
- Don't Tamper: Never mess with your tag – it's not worth the huge fine.
If your account is inactive for 5 years (no trips or top-ups), it gets deactivated, and you lose any balance left. Stay active to avoid that.
How to Check and Pay Salik Fines
If you think you have a fine, check it fast to avoid more charges. Here's how:
- RTA Dubai App: Go to Services > Salik > Violations. Enter your plate details and pay with a card.
- Dubai Police App: Select Pay Traffic Fines > Salik. Enter ticket details and pay.
- Salik Website: Visit salik.ae, go to Violations, search by plate, and pay online.
FAQs
What is Salik?
Salik is Dubai's toll system that charges drivers for using certain roads to manage traffic.
How much is the Salik toll?
It varies, AED 6 in peak hours, AED 4 off-peak, free from 1 AM to 6 AM, and AED 4 on Sundays.
What happens if I don't pay a Salik fine?
Unpaid fines can lead to more penalties, and you might not renew your vehicle registration until cleared.
Are there exemptions for certain vehicles?
Yes, electric vehicles get free tags for 5 years. Taxis, buses, and some others may also be exempt; check with RTA.
How do I buy a Salik tag?
You can buy it online at salik.ae, at petrol stations, or RTA centers. It costs AED 100 (AED 50 for tag, AED 50 credit).
Can I get alerts for low balance?
Yes, update your mobile number in your Salik account to get SMS alerts.
