How to Avoid Salik in Dubai 2026 - Routes, Tips, And More

Understanding What is Salik

Launched in 2007, Salik is an electronic toll collection system. It was designed to improve traffic flow on major routes in Dubai. To pay charges to pass through these gates, you must install Salik tags on your windshield.

Here is a list of the major Salik toll gates —

• Jebel Ali (Sheikh Zayed Road)
• Al Mamzar North (Al Ittihad Road)
• Airport Tunnel (Beirut Street)
• Al Garhoud Bridge (Sheikh Zayed Road)
• Business Bay Crossing (Al Khail Road)
• Al Mamzar South (Al Ittihad Road)
• Al Safa North Gate (Sheikh Zayed Road)
• Al Barsha (Sheikh Zayed Road)
• Al Makhtoum Bridge (Umm Hurair Road)
• Al Safa South Gate (Sheikh Zayed Road between Al Meydan Street and Umm Al Sheif Street)

Read More: Salik Dubai - Salik Traffic Toll System, Charges, & How Does it Work

Tips to Avoid Salik in Dubai

The toll charges in peak hours for Salik Gates have risen to AED 6. Moreover, the charge during low-peak hours is now AED 4. It can certainly make you rethink your routes, but there are still many ways to avoid Salik in Dubai. Let’s understand them in more detail — 

Tip1- Use App-based Maps

Before starting your road trip, use apps like Google Maps, Waze, or any other one. Turn on the ‘Avoid Toll’ setting to have the app guide you through Salik-free roads. While these routes might be slightly longer, they can be a good option if you want to avoid Salik charges in Dubai. 

Tip2- Select Alternative Routes

Several reliable alternative routes allow you to drive around the city without incurring Salik charges. These routes are better alternatives to the Salik toll gates on highways if your priority is to reduce travel costs. Some recommended routes are –

• Al Khail Road (E44) - A prominent route that is parallel to Sheikh Zayed Road and helps you avoid tolls 
• Al Nahda Road - This is another time-saving and Salik-free route suggested for travellers between Deira and Sharjah 
• Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) - It bypasses several areas of Dubai and avoids the Salik toll gates
• Jumeirah Road and Al Wasl Road - These roads are suitable for touring coastal areas while reaching urban areas without paying at the Salik toll gates

Tip3- Travel During Toll-Free Hours

Another way to avoid Salik charges in Dubai is to travel during toll-free hours. While most Salik gates function 24/7, some spots have toll-free hours. On some weekdays, toll gates are free to use during off-peak hours from 1 am to 6 am.

Tip4- Carpooling

While this may not help you avoid the charges, you can certainly reduce your individual toll fees through carpooling. This method is also great for —

• Sharing Salik and fuel expenses
• Lowering your environmental footprint
• Reducing the number of vehicles on the road 

Tip5- Opt for Public Transportation

Public transport in Dubai is an excellent option to skip Salik toll gate charges and travel comfortably. This mode of transportation is practical, cost-effective, and time-saving. Find below some of the major public transport options —

• Dubai Metro - You can travel through the main business points and city centres
• Tram & Public Buses - Suitable for travelling around neighbourhoods and other famous destinations in the city 
• Passenger Water Taxis - This public transport is perfect for enjoying Dubai's scenic waterfronts

Tip6- Relocate Closer to Work

Another way to avoid paying Salik in Dubai is by relocating near your workplace. It’s also great as it also helps you save on daily fuel spending. This works well because it —

• Reduces toll and fuel expenses 
• Cuts down on commuting time
• Creates a better work-life balance

Related Links
How to Check Salik Fines in Dubai	How to Register & Activate Salik Tag in UAE
How to Recharge Salik Tag?	How to Check Salik Balance in Dubai
Abu Dhabi Salik Registration	Steps to Deactivate Salik Tag and Cancel Salik Account
Methods of Salik Recharge in Dubai	How to Purchase Salik Tag in Dubai?

To Conclude

With proper planning, you can avoid Salik charges in Dubai. There are several ways to do so. You can use navigation apps to figure out toll-free routes, travel during off-peak hours, or choose public transportation. Carpooling can also help you save money on tolls and fuel. Relocating near your workplace, meanwhile, can also help you spend less on driving. With these hacks, you can enjoy your time in Dubai without worrying about extra fees.

Frequently Asked Questions