As the new Salik toll rates take effect today (January 31), many UAE motorists will face higher costs due to dynamic pricing during peak hours. However, some residents are set to benefit from the changes, particularly those who drive during the early morning hours when toll fees are waived.
Free Toll Window from 1 am to 6 am Offers Savings
Under the new system, toll fees are waived daily between 1 am and 6 am, providing significant savings for those who travel during these hours. Abu Aiman, a Sharjah resident since 1996, shared how this change will benefit him. “The free Salik window from 1 am to 6 am is perfect for my commute from Sharjah to Abu Dhabi. I usually leave around 5:30am to arrive by 8am. Previously, I avoided toll gates by taking Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road. Now, I can use Ittihad Road and Sheikh Zayed Road without worrying about toll fees, and I’ll save on petrol too because the route is shorter,” he said.
Abu Aiman believes many early risers will take advantage of this new facility. “I’m sure many motorists who leave early will use Sheikh Zayed Road to save money,” he added.
Night Owls Rejoice Over Toll-Free Drives
The new toll-free window is a welcome change for those who enjoy late-night drives. Adnan Chaudhry, a UAE resident for 15 years, said he loves exploring Dubai at night when traffic is light. “I was thrilled when I read that Salik charges would be free from 1 am to 6 am. This is a fantastic opportunity for people like me who want to save on toll fees while enjoying late-night drives, especially on weekends,” he said.
Before the change, Chaudhry spent around Dh24 for each leg of his weekend trip from Clock Tower to Dubai Marina, passing through three toll gates on Sheikh Zayed Road. “That’s Dh48 in toll fees on weekends. With the new system, I won’t have to worry about these charges during my late-night outings, saving me at least Dh48 each weekend,” he explained.
Saving Time and Money on Weekend Trips
Jitendra Singh, a 34-year-old Indian IT professional living in Sharjah, also highlighted the new system’s benefits. “Al Qudra Lake and Love Lake are my family’s favourite weekend spots. We often return late at night. Previously, I would pay for one or two Salik fees depending on my route. Now, with the free Salik window after 1 am, my return trip from Al Qudra to Sharjah will be toll-free, saving both time and money,” he said.
Stress-Free Commutes for Nighttime Travelers
Mashal Hussain, a marketing specialist from Pakistan, commutes daily between Jebel Ali and the Sharjah-Dubai border for work. She often travels late at night for work or personal errands and appreciates the new toll-free window. “Free Salik at night is a thoughtful change that makes life in Dubai more dynamic. It’s perfect for stress-free commutes when the city is quiet, and you can enjoy the open roads without worrying about your Salik balance,” she said.
Mashal added that the change has made a big difference in her routine. “I no longer need to check my balance during late-night trips, whether I’m heading out for a quick drive or dinner with friends. It’s a relief not to worry about toll charges adding up,” she said.
While increasing costs for peak-hour drivers, the new Salik toll system offers significant savings and convenience for those who travel during the early morning hours, making it a win for late-night commuters and explorers.
