Dubai’s world-class road network makes driving a joy, but there’s one essential step every motorist must take to avoid unnecessary fines and ensure a smooth commute—salik activation Dubai. If you’ve recently bought a car or moved to Dubai, understanding how to activate Salik in Dubai is crucial.
Salik, which literally means "open" or "clear" in Arabic, is an electronic toll payment system used on some of the key roads around the city. The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) owns Salik, which uses RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) to deduct from your account when you pass under a toll gate.
But while Salik works, not properly switching on your tag can lead to violations and fines. In this blog, we will walk you through all of it - how Salik works, how to activate a new Salik tag, how to fit Salik to a car, and answer common user queries like, "Can I pass through Salik without a Salik tag?" and "What day is Salik free today in Dubai?
What Is Salik and Why Is It So Important?
Let's know why Salik for cars in Dubai is such a big thing before we delve into the nitty-gritty of the steps.
Salik operates on dedicated toll gates placed above roads like Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Garhoud Bridge, Al Maktoum Bridge, etc. As you pass through these gates, AED 4 is charged to your Salik account.
The system, which was introduced in 2007 to alleviate congestion and lighten travel times, has seen congestion on key intersections decrease by over 20%, according to RTA reports. With more than 500,000 cars passing through it on a daily basis, it is a driving staple in the city.
How Do You Activate Your Salik - Step-by-Step Guide
Here is step-by-step Salik activation Dubai—to beginners and replacement old-tag holders alike.
Step 1 - Purchase a Salik Tag
You can buy your Salik tag at:
- RTA customer service centers
- ENOC, ADNOC, or EPPCO petrol stations
- Official Salik website
Every Salik tag is AED 100, consisting of AED 50 prepaid credit and AED 50 administrative and tag charges.
Step 2 - Register Your Vehicle
Register your tag and associate it with your car through:
- The Salik website
- The Salik Dubai mobile app (for iOS and Android)
You will require:
- Your Emirates ID
- Vehicle plate number
- Tag number
- Mobile number for SMS notifications
Step 3 - Add Balance to Your Salik Account
Once registration is complete, your tag will be activated.
To avoid toll charge violations, top up your Salik balance through:
- The Salik app
- Salik website
- ATMs or online banking sites
- Auto-recharge through a connected debit/credit card
Step 4 - Attach the Tag to Your Car
Here's how to put a Salik in a car:
- Glue it to your front windshield of the car
- Fix it at the rearview mirror spot or where it can be easily seen
Ensure that it is not blocked by metal tints or stickers that could interfere with signal transmission
Misplacement may result in the toll not being picked up, and that translates to fines, even if your account is in order.
Can I Pass Salik Without a Salik Tag?
One of the most popular mistakes new drivers make is believing that they can drive past a toll gate without getting a Salik tag installed. So, can I pass Salik without a Salik tag? Yes, technically—but you shouldn't.
If your car does not have a Salik tag, it is still recognized with your plate number and charged. But in case you haven't registered your car or your balance is low, this incurs penalties:
- AED 100 for the first offense
- AED 200 for the second
- AED 400 for repeated offenses
Avoid these charges by activating your tag when you buy it and keeping a top-up on your balance.
How to Activate a New Tag?
In case your tag is lost, destroyed, or if you are switching cars, you will have to switch to a new one. It is simple:
- Buy a new tag.
- Sign in to your Salik account.
- Input the new tag number and link it to your car.
- Remove the old tag from your windshield so it won't be double-scanned.
Pro tip: A tag can be linked only to a single vehicle. So, if you find yourself wondering, "Can I use one Salik for two cars?"—the answer is no.
Which Day Is Salik Free in Dubai Today?
As of now, there are no Salik-free weekly days. But on public holidays or on the day of Eid, the RTA may waive the toll fee temporarily. These are declared on:
- RTA social media channels
- Dubai Government websites
- News publications like Gulf News or Khaleej Times
To confirm which day is Salik free today in Dubai, visit the RTA News page or their Twitter/X official account.
Salik for Vehicles in Dubai - Important Tips
- Always register your tag before crossing a gate
- Keep your balance above AED 20 to prevent disturbance
- Regularly check your account through the app
- Use one tag for every car
- Avoid sharing tags between various cars
Whether you're an old hand or a new one, Salik activation Dubai on your vehicle is mandatory. It's efficient, affordable, and saves you costly surprises.
It's essential to know how to obtain a Salik activated in Dubai as much as it's crucial to know traffic laws. By having a registered and installed correctly tag, you'll be enjoying smooth rides across the city without incurring fines.
Driving in Dubai without an active Salik is like flying without checking in—perilous, expensive, and stressful. Just follow the steps, maintain your tag filled, and experience the freedom of a toll-free journey through technology.
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