The Ultimate Guide to Salik in Dubai: How to Purchase, Deactivate, and Manage Your Account

Introduction

Dubai, a city known for its cutting-edge infrastructure, has revolutionized its road toll system with Salik. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Salik, from purchasing and using a tag to managing your account and even deactivating it when necessary. Whether you’re a long-term resident or a visitor planning to drive in Dubai, this guide is your one-stop resource for mastering the Salik system.

What is Salik?

Salik, which means “open” or “clear” in Arabic, is Dubai’s automatic road toll collection system. Introduced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in 2007, Salik aims to manage traffic flow and reduce congestion on Dubai’s busiest roads. The system uses Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to charge vehicles automatically as they pass through Salik gates, eliminating the need for toll booths and allowing for smooth, uninterrupted traffic flow.

Why You Need a Salik Tag

If you plan to drive in Dubai, a Salik tag is essential for several reasons:

1. Legal Requirement: All vehicles using Dubai’s roads must have a Salik tag.
2. Convenience: The tag allows for seamless passage through toll gates without stopping.
3. Cost-Effective: Avoiding fines for non-compliance saves money in the long run.
4. Time-Saving: No need to stop at toll booths or manually pay for tolls.

Salik Toll Gates in Dubai

As of 2024, there are 8 Salik toll gates strategically placed across Dubai:

1. Al Barsha
2. Al Garhoud
3. Al Maktoum Bridge
4. Al Mamzar South
5. Al Mamzar North
6. Al Safa
7. Airport Tunnel
8. Jebel Ali

Note: The two Al Mamzar tolls on Al Ittihad Street are counted as a single toll point if traveled in the same direction within a short period.

Latest Update: Dubai plans to have 10 Salik toll gates by November 2024, with new gates at Business Bay and Al Safa South.

How to Purchase a Salik Tag

Option 1: Online Purchase

1. Visit the official Salik website (www.salik.gov.ae)
2. Navigate to the “Purchase a Tag” section under Salik Services
3. Fill out the vehicle registration and customer information form
4. Verify your identity with the provided One-Time-Password (OTP)
5. Provide delivery information and make the payment
6. Your tag will be delivered within 5 working days

Cost: AED 120 (AED 50 for the tag, AED 50 for prepaid toll credits, AED 20 for delivery)

Option 2: In-Person Purchase

Visit any of the following locations to buy a Salik tag:

• Authorized gas stations: ENOC, EPPCO, ADNOC, Emarat
• Partner banks: Emirates NBD, Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB)

Cost: AED 100 (AED 50 for the tag, AED 50 for prepaid toll credits)

How to Activate Your Salik Tag

1. Locate the tag number and key printed on the back of your Salik tag
2. Visit the Salik website and select “Activate a Tag” under Salik Services
3. Fill in the required information, including vehicle registration and profile details
4. Upload any necessary documents
5. Confirm the information and complete the activation process

Once activated, apply the tag to your car’s windshield as instructed.

Adding Funds to Your Salik Account

To ensure uninterrupted travel, keep your Salik account topped up. Here are several convenient recharge options:

1. Recharge Cards and Vouchers: Available at petrol stations, grocery stores, and supermarkets. Recharge via:
   • Online: Log into your Salik account and enter the 12-digit card number
   • Phone: Call 800-SALIK (800-72545) and follow the instructions
   • SMS: Send an SMS with the card details to 5959
2. Banks and Salik Counters: Recharge at various banks and Salik counters throughout Dubai. Many banks offer online and mobile app recharge options.
3. Salik Smartphone Application: Download the RTA’s Salik app for easy account management and recharging.
4. E-Pay: Use the e-Pay service on the Salik website to top up using a credit card.
5. RTA Website: Manage your account and recharge online through the official RTA website.

Important: Maintain a positive balance to avoid fines. If you don’t recharge within 5 days after passing a toll gate with a low balance, you may incur a fine of up to AED 400.

Monitoring Your Salik Account

Stay on top of your Salik usage and balance:

1. Salik App: Download the official Salik app for real-time balance updates and transaction history.
2. Salik Website: Log in to your account on www.salik.gov.ae for detailed account information.
3. SMS Alerts: Set up SMS notifications for low balance warnings and successful toll deductions.

Deactivating Your Salik Tag and Canceling Your Account

If you’re selling your car, leaving Dubai, or no longer need your Salik tag, follow these steps:

Deactivating Your Salik Tag

1. Visit Salik.gov.ae or use the Smart Salik Application
2. Select the “Deactivate Tag” option
3. Follow the prompts to complete the deactivation process

Alternatively, you can call Salik Customer Service for assistance.

Canceling Your Salik Account

While you can’t technically “deactivate” a Salik account, you can cancel it if you’re permanently leaving the UAE:

1. Contact Salik Customer Service
2. Request account cancellation
3. Provide necessary documentation (e.g., proof of departure)
4. Follow their instructions for any remaining balance refunds

Note: If you only deactivate a tag, your account will be paused for three years. For permanent cancellation, explicitly request this from Customer Service.

Key Things to Know

1. Toll Charge: AED 4 is deducted each time you pass through a Salik gate.
2. Multiple Tags: If you have multiple vehicles, each needs its own Salik tag.
3. Fines: Passing through a Salik gate without a valid, active tag can result in fines.
4. Visitors: Rental cars in Dubai typically come with Salik tags. Confirm this with your rental agency.
5. Balance Checks: Regularly monitor your Salik balance to avoid disruptions or fines.

Conclusion

Salik is an integral part of Dubai’s advanced transportation infrastructure, designed to keep the city moving efficiently. By understanding how to purchase, use, and manage your Salik tag and account, you’ll ensure smooth travels on Dubai’s roads. Remember to keep your account topped up, your tag properly installed, and stay informed about any system updates or new toll gate locations. Safe travels!