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AI-assisted content notice: This article was written with AI assistance and reviewed by the Tovi team. UAE rules and fees change — always verify with official sources before acting. Last reviewed: March 2026.
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Salik Tag: How It Works Cost How to Top Up

Salik is Dubai automatic toll system at AED 4 per crossing. Here is how it works, how to register, and how to top up in 2026.

·7 min read·By the Tovi UAE Team

Quick answer

Salik is Dubai’s automatic toll system that charges AED 4 per crossing on major roads like Sheikh Zayed Road. Tourists can use it without registering a plate by driving through any Salik gate with a rental car that already has a tag. The rental company charges the toll plus AED 25–30 admin fee per invoice. Top-ups happen automatically when the rental agreement ends or through the RTA app if you have a personal vehicle.

How Salik works

Salik uses radio-frequency identification tags fixed to the windscreen. Every time a vehicle crosses a Salik gate, the system reads the tag and deducts AED 4 from the linked account. There are 14 gates in 2026 covering Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, and Hessa Street. No stopping is required.

Which roads require payment

Active Salik gates in 2026 include:

  • Al Garhoud Bridge
  • Al Maktoum Bridge
  • Al Maktoum Bridge (northbound)
  • Sheikh Zayed Road (5 gates)
  • Al Khail Road (3 gates)Hessa Street (2 gates)
  • Trade Centre Roundway

Cost breakdown for tourists

Visitors driving a rental car pay AED 4 per crossing plus an administration fee charged by the rental company. Most companies add AED 25–30 per invoice. If you cross 10 times during your stay, you will pay roughly AED 40–70 in tolls plus 25–30 admin fee. No cash payment is required at the gates.

How to register a Salik tag

Tourists usually do not register because rental cars already have tags. If you import a vehicle or buy a local car, you register through the RTA website or DubaiNow app. You fill in vehicle details and plate number, then receive a physical tag by post within 5 days.

Online registration steps

1. Download DubaiNow app or visit rta.ae

2. Log in with Emirates ID or passport

3. Select “Register Salik Tag”

4. Enter plate details and vehicle class

5. Pay AED 100 deposit plus AED 15 shipping

6. Tag arrives in 3–5 business days

How to top up in 2026

Most tourists never top up manually. The rental company deducts the amount at check-out. If you are driving a personal vehicle, top up through these channels:

  1. RTA website or DubaiNow app
  2. Salik website salik.ae
  3. Emirates NBD, FAB, or Dubai Islamic Bank mobile apps
  4. RTA Customer Happiness Centres
  5. Enoc or Eppco stations

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