Page 118 - SALIK PR REPORT ENGLISH AUGUST 2024

8/29/24, 10:52 AM Two New Salik Gates Coming to Dubai Roads - Wow-Emirates
The Al Safa South Gate on Sheikh Zayed Road will play a pivotal role in managing traffic flow in the surrounding areas. The new gate is
anticipated to reduce traffic turning right from Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Meydan Street by 15 percent. Furthermore, it is expected to decrease
the traffic flow from Al Meydan and Al Safa Streets to Sheikh Zayed Road by an impressive 42 percent. This will not only alleviate congestion but
also enhance the overall driving experience on one of Dubai’s busiest highways.

OVERALL TRAFFIC DISTRIBUTION BENEFITS
The strategic placement of these toll gates is part of a broader plan to optimize traffic distribution across Dubai’s road network. For instance, the
RTA expects a 4 percent reduction in traffic volume on Sheikh Zayed Road between Financial Centre and Latifa Bint Hamdan Streets.
Additionally, the gates will contribute to better utilization of the First Al Khail and Al Asayel Roads, with up to a 4 percent improvement in traffic
distribution.

SALIK TOLL SYSTEM: A BRIEF OVERVIEW
Salik, Dubai’s electronic toll collection system, was first introduced in 2007 as a means to manage traffic and reduce congestion on the city’s
roads. Currently, there are eight operational Salik gates spread across Dubai, each charging a toll fee of Dhs4 every time a vehicle passes
through. The system is designed to encourage drivers to consider alternative routes or switch to public transport, thereby easing the burden on
the city’s road network.

EXISTING SALIK GATES AND THEIR LOCATIONS
The existing Salik toll gates are strategically placed at key points around the city, including:

Al Garhoud Bridge
Al Maktoum Bridge
Al Safa
Al Barsha
Airport Tunnel
Al Mamzar North
Al Mamzar South
Jebel Ali

These gates have proven effective in managing traffic and reducing congestion on some of the busiest roads in Dubai. The addition of the two
new gates on Al Khail Road and Sheikh Zayed Road is expected to further enhance this system.

THE FINANCIAL IMPACT ON MOTORISTS

With the addition of these new gates, motorists will need to factor in the increased cost of commuting through these routes. As with the existing
gates, each time a vehicle passes through one of the new toll gates, a fee of Dhs4 will be charged. However, there is some relief for drivers who
need to pass through multiple gates within a short period. For instance, if you cross both the Safa Gates (North and South) within a one-hour
window, you will only be charged once. This is also applicable to the gates in Al Mamzar, offering some financial relief to frequent travelers.

ENCOURAGING PUBLIC TRANSPORT AND REDUCING ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
One of the key goals of the RTA’s traffic toll policies is to encourage the public to shift towards mass transportation options. By making it more
costly to drive through congested areas, the RTA hopes to incentivize the use of metro, buses, marine transport, and other soft mobility
options. This shift not only helps in reducing traffic congestion but also contributes to the reduction of carbon emissions, aligning with Dubai’s
broader environmental goals.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT ALTERNATIVES
For those looking to avoid the toll fees, Dubai offers a robust public transport network that includes:

Dubai Metro: A fast, efficient, and affordable option that covers most of the city’s major areas.
Dubai Tram: Ideal for short distances, particularly in the Marina and JBR areas.
Dubai Buses: Covering an extensive network of routes across the city.
Marine Transport: Including abras, water taxis, and ferries, which are not only practical but also offer a scenic view of the city.

The availability of these alternatives makes it easier for residents and visitors to navigate the city without the need for a personal vehicle, thus
reducing the strain on the road network.

FUTURE IMPLICATIONS AND DEVELOPMENTS

https://wow-emirates.com/two-new-salik-gates-coming-to-dubai-roads/#google_vignette 2/3