How long does Salik tag activation take?

After you stick the tag on the windscreen, wait 24 hours before driving through any gantry to ensure full activation.

Can I transfer a Salik tag to a new car?

Yes. Visit any Tasheel centre with your Emirates ID and new registration; the transfer costs AED 0 if the tag is undamaged.

What happens if my balance goes to zero?

You receive an AED 100 fine per crossing plus the toll. Top up before it reaches AED 20 to avoid penalties.

How to Set Up Salik (Dubai Toll) for Your Car

Why Salik matters for drivers in Dubai

Salik is Dubai's electronic toll system. Every time you pass a gantry you pay automatically. Without a registered tag your vehicle gets a fine of AED 100 plus the unpaid toll. Most expats driving daily routes across Sheikh Zayed Road or Al Khail Road need it active from day one.

Check if your car already has a tag

Look for a small black or white sticker on the inside of your windscreen near the rear-view mirror. If the previous owner left one, you still need to transfer ownership in the system. Visit the RTA website or any Tasheel centre with your Emirates ID and vehicle registration to complete the transfer in under 15 minutes.

Register a new Salik account

Go to the official RTA Salik portal or download the RTA Dubai app. You will need your Emirates ID, vehicle plate number, and a UAE mobile number. Choose between prepaid or postpaid. Most new drivers start with prepaid. Create the account, verify with OTP, then add your vehicle details. The system shows a one-time AED 100 tag fee plus a minimum AED 50 top-up.

Collect and install the tag

After registration you can collect the tag from any RTA customer service centre, selected petrol stations, or request delivery to your home for AED 15. Clean the windscreen, peel the backing, and stick the tag behind the mirror on the driver's side. Wait 24 hours before driving through a gantry to allow activation.

Top up and manage payments

Load credit via the app, website, or at any RTA kiosk using cash, card, or Apple Pay. Minimum top-up is AED 50. Set low-balance alerts so you never drop below AED 20. If you choose postpaid, link a credit card and the system deducts tolls monthly. Both options show live transaction history and monthly statements.

Avoid common fines

Never drive through a gantry without an active tag. Fines are AED 100 per crossing plus the toll amount. Keep your account topped up, update your address within 30 days of moving, and check for any unpaid violations on the RTA app before renewal season. If you receive a fine by mistake, submit an appeal through the app with proof of payment within 30 days.

Ask Tovi for more

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything. Ask Tovi free →

Got more UAE questions?

Tovi knows current 2026 UAE rules, fees, and processes. Ask anything — visas, banking, housing, schools. Ask Tovi free →