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How to Register & Activate Salik Tag in the UAE

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Summary

To register and activate a Salik tag in the UAE, buy a tag online at salik.ae or from ENOC, EPPCO, Emarat, or ADNOC petrol stations. Next, activate it through the Salik website, the Smart Salik App or by calling 800 72545. You'll need your Emirates ID, vehicle registration card (Mulkiya), and mobile number. Activation is free and takes minutes.

  • star-icon Tag cost: AED 50 (tag) + AED 50 (prepaid balance) = AED 100 at petrol stations; AED 120 online (includes delivery)
  • star-icon Tags bought online activate automatically; tags from petrol stations need manual activation
  • star-icon Current toll rates (from January 31, 2025): AED 6 (peak hours) / AED 4 (off-peak) / Free (1 AM–6 AM)
  • star-icon Salik registration is 100% paperless — no physical forms needed
  • star-icon Official sources: salik.ae | rta.ae | RTA Dubai App | Call centre: 800 72545
Quick AI summary, verify if needed

Who Needs a Salik Tag?

You need a Salik tag if you own or drive any private or commercial vehicle in Dubai that passes through any of the 10 toll gates. This includes:

  1. UAE residents with vehicles registered in Dubai or other emirates
  2. Tourists and visitors driving their own or a rented vehicle in Dubai
  3. Companies with fleet vehicles operating in Dubai
  4. Non-UAE residents visiting with their own vehicle (must buy from authorised sales agents only)

💡 Tip: If you pass through a Salik gate without an active, registered tag, you get a grace period of 10 working days to rectify the issue. After that, fines apply. Fines start at AED 100 per violation per day, so it's important to act quickly.

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Where Can I Get a Salik Tag?

Salik Registration in Dubai

Source: AI Generated/Human Edited

You can buy a Salik tag through multiple channels:

Channel Tag Cost Auto-Activated? Delivery
Official Salik Website (salik.ae) AED 120 (incl. AED 50 credit + AED 20 delivery) Yes Within 5 working days
ENOC / EPPCO Petrol Stations AED 100 (incl. AED 50 credit) No, manual activation required In-store
Emarat Petrol Stations AED 100 (incl. AED 50 credit) No, manual activation required In-store
ADNOC Petrol Stations AED 100 (incl. AED 50 credit) No, manual activation required In-store
Careem App AED 100 No, manual activation required In-store / delivery

Note: Vehicles registered outside the UAE cannot purchase a Salik tag online. They must buy from authorised sales agents only. Corporate/fleet customers should contact Salik at 800 72545 for online tag purchase options.

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What Documents Do I Need to Register Salik?

Before you start, keep the following ready. This applies whether you're registering online, through the app or in person:

  1. Emirates ID (or valid passport for non-UAE residents)
  2. Vehicle Registration Card (Mulkiya) — both front and back
  3. Active UAE mobile number (to receive OTP and SMS confirmation)
  4. Salik Tag Number and Activation Key (printed on the tag packaging)
  5. Trade Licence copy (if registering a company-owned vehicle)
  6. Vehicle Registration Card details (if vehicle is registered outside UAE or has export plates)

Salik Registration is Now Completely Paperless — Here's What Changed

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) discontinued paper-based Salik registration forms. This change supports the Dubai Government's Paperless Strategy, championed by the Crown Prince of Dubai, HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, to create a paperless working environment across all government transactions.

What this means for you:

  1. No paper forms are issued at petrol stations or RTA centres when you buy a tag.
  2. All registration and activation must be done online via salik.ae or the Smart Salik App.
  3. The full range of Salik e-services is now accessible entirely online: buying tags, recharging accounts, adding vehicles, updating details, requesting monthly statements, objecting to violations, applying for toll exemptions, and removing vehicles.

How to Activate Salik Tag Online — Step by Step (salik.ae)

How to Activate Salik Tag Online

Source: AI Generated/Human Edited

This is the most popular method. Here's exactly how to do it:

  1. Go to the official Salik website: www.salik.ae
  2. Click on 'Salik Services' from the top navigation menu.
  3. Select 'Register and Activate a Salik Tag' from the services list.
  4. Create an account or log in if you already have one. First-time users will need to register with their mobile number.
  5. Enter your Salik Tag Number and Activation Key (both are printed on the tag's packaging).
  6. Fill in your vehicle registration details: plate number, traffic file number and other required info.
  7. Upload a photo of your Mulkiya (vehicle registration card) if required.
  8. Submit the form. You will receive an SMS confirming successful activation, along with your Salik Account Number and PIN.

💡 Tip: Activation through the website is usually confirmed within a few hours. You'll get a welcome SMS with your Account Number and 4-digit PIN. Save these, as you'll need them to recharge and manage your account.

How to Activate Salik Tag Using a Mobile App?

Method 1: Smart Salik App

The Smart Salik App is one of the official channels for Salik tag activation. You can use it to activate a new tag, manage your Salik account, add vehicles, check balance, and recharge. Here’s how to activate your Salik tag:

  1. Download and open the Smart Salik App.
  2. Create an account or log in using your mobile number.
  3. Select Tag Activation from the services menu.
  4. Enter your Salik Tag Number and Activation Key.
  5. Add your vehicle registration details.
  6. Submit the request. You will receive a confirmation once the tag is activated.

Method 2: RTA Dubai App

You can also activate your Salik tag through the RTA Dubai App. This is useful if you already use the app for other Dubai driving or vehicle services.

  1. Open the RTA Dubai App and log in.
  2. Select Salik from the services section.
  3. Choose Tag Activation.
  4. Enter your tag number, activation key, and vehicle details.
  5. Submit the details and wait for the activation confirmation.

Method 3: Salik Website on Mobile Browser

If you do not want to download an app, you can activate the tag directly from your phone’s browser.

  1. Go to the official Salik website.
  2. Select Register and Activate a Salik Tag.
  3. Enter your tag number, activation key, and vehicle registration details.
  4. Submit the request and wait for the SMS confirmation.

How to Activate Salik by Phone or In Person?

By Phone — Calling 800 72545

  1. Dial 800 72545. This is the official Salik call centre number.
  2. Follow the IVR instructions and choose your preferred language.
  3. Select the Salik tag activation option.
  4. Provide your Salik Tag Number, Activation Key, mobile number, and vehicle registration details.
  5. Complete the required steps until you receive confirmation that the tag has been activated.

💡 Tip: Keep your Salik tag packaging and vehicle registration card ready before calling. The tag number and activation key are printed on the tag package, while the vehicle details can be checked from your Mulkiya.

How to Create a Salik Online Account?

A Salik online account lets you manage all your Salik services in one place — view your balance, check transaction history, add new vehicles, and recharge. You can create your Salik account by following these steps:

  1. After activating your Salik tag, you receive an Account Number and PIN via SMS.
  2. Visit www.salik.ae and click 'Login' or 'Register'.
  3. Enter your Account Number and PIN to create your online profile.
  4. Set up your email and password for future logins.

What is the Account Number in Salik? Your Salik Account Number is a unique 7-10 digit ID assigned by RTA when your account is created. It is different from your tag number or plate number. You'll find it in your welcome SMS, in the upper-right corner of the salik.ae website after logging in, or on your printed Salik paperwork.

If you forget it, go to salik.ae > 'Other Services' > 'Retrieve Account and PIN', then enter your mobile number and vehicle plate details to get it via SMS.

How to Install a Salik Tag on Your Windshield?

How to Install a Salik Tag on Your Windshield

Source: AI Generated/Human Edited

Proper installation is as important as registration. A poorly placed tag won't be detected at toll gates, which can result in fines even if your account is active.

Step What to Do
Clean the area Clean the top part of your windshield on the inside, near the rearview mirror. Remove any dust or film
Correct position Place the tag on the upper-centre area of the windshield, at least 1cm below the rearview mirror, on the passenger side. Do not place it on the driver's side
Avoid obstructions Keep the tag away from metal window frames, tinted or metallic film sections, and any accessories that could block the RFID signal
Peel and stick Remove the backing from the tag and press firmly against the glass. Hold for 10-15 seconds
Remove protective film If there is a protective film on the front of the tag, remove it before driving through a Salik gate
Do not move the tag Once placed and linked to a vehicle, do not remove or move the tag to another car. Each tag is registered to one specific vehicle

💡 Tip: If your tag is not being detected at a gate, the most common cause is incorrect placement or a protective film left on the tag. Double-check both before calling customer support.

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How to Add a New Salik Tag to an Existing Account?

If you own more than one vehicle or have purchased a new car, you can add the new vehicle and tag to your existing Salik account without creating a separate account.

  1. Log in to your account at www.salik.ae or through the Smart Salik App.
  2. Go to the Vehicles section and select the option to add a new vehicle.
  3. Enter the new vehicle registration card details.
  4. Enter the new Salik Tag Number and Activation Key.
  5. Submit the details and complete all required steps until the vehicle is added.
  6. You can also add a vehicle through Salik self-service by calling 800 SALIK / 800 72545.

Important: If you have more than one Salik tag and no existing account, use any one of the tags to complete the first registration and create your account. After receiving your Account Number and PIN by SMS, you can add the other tags and vehicles through the website, Smart Salik App, RTA Dubai App, or Salik call centre.

What are the Current Salik Toll Rates in Dubai? (2026)

Effective January 31, 2025, Salik introduced variable toll pricing across all gates. Here's the updated rate schedule:

Time Period Day(s) Rate per Crossing
Peak Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM Monday to Saturday AED 6
Low-Peak Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM Monday to Saturday AED 4
Late Night / Toll-Free Window: 1:00 AM – 6:00 AM Every day FREE
Sundays 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM AED 4
Public Holidays and Special Events As announced by Salik / RTA Check official updates

Salik Rates During Ramadan

Time Period Day(s) Rate
Peak Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Monday to Saturday AED 6
Low-Peak Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM Monday to Saturday AED 4
Toll-Free Hours: 2:00 AM – 7:00 AM Every day FREE
Sundays during Ramadan 7:00 AM – 2:00 AM AED 4

Tip: The one-hour rule still applies. If you pass through both Al Mamzar North and South gates or both Al Safa North and South gates, in the same direction within one hour, you are charged only once. The charged amount depends on the time of crossing.

Common Salik Issues and How to Fix Them

Problem Likely Cause Solution
Tag not being detected at gate Wrong placement or protective film still on Reposition tag to upper-centre windshield area, remove all protective films
Activation not going through Incorrect tag number or activation key Double-check the numbers printed on your tag packaging. Keys are case-sensitive.
Account number forgotten Account created previously Visit salik.ae > Other Services > Retrieve Account and PIN, or call 800 72545
Balance deducting even when gate is free Late-night free hours may not apply to all gates Some gates have specific conditions — check rta.ae for gate-specific rules
Violation fine for unpaid toll Tag not activated within 10 working days of first use Pay the fine through salik.ae and activate your tag immediately to avoid further fines
Tag lost or stolen Physical tag missing Deactivate the tag immediately via salik.ae or by calling 800 72545. Order a replacement.

How to Recharge Your Salik Account?

There are multiple ways to top up your Salik balance. Keep your account funded to avoid fines. If your balance is insufficient when you pass a gate, you get 5 working days from the trip date to recharge. If you do not recharge within this period, an AED 50 violation may apply for each day you make unpaid trips.

Method How
Salik Website Log in or recharge without logging in by entering the required account or vehicle details
Smart Salik App Open the app, select recharge, enter the details, and complete payment
RTA Dubai App Go to the Salik section and select recharge
Dubai Now App Select Salik under driving or payments services and complete the recharge
Careem App Go to Bills & Recharges, select Salik and complete payment
TAMM App Select Salik under utilities and complete the recharge
Bank Mobile Apps Some UAE banks support Salik top-up — check availability with your bank
SMS Send the recharge card number, Salik account number and PIN to 5959
Self-Service Machines Enter your account number and PIN, then select the recharge amount
Salik Call Centre Call 800 SALIK / 800 72545 and use the self-service recharge option

SMS Recharge Format
R12-digit recharge card numberSalik account numberPIN
Example: R34567891234512345678901234

Salik Balance Validity: Your Salik balance remains in your account for up to 5 years if there is no activity, such as a recharge or a toll trip. After 5 years of inactivity, the remaining balance may be forfeited. The minimum recharge amount is AED 50, and the recharge amount should be in multiples of AED 50.

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What About Toll Gates Outside Dubai? (DARB — Abu Dhabi)

If you're driving in Abu Dhabi, you may also need to register with DARB — Abu Dhabi's road toll system managed by Q Mobility. DARB does not require a physical tag. It uses Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) to identify vehicles through their plate number when they pass through active toll gates.

Feature Salik (Dubai) DARB (Abu Dhabi)
Technology RFID tag on windshield Number plate recognition — no tag needed
Managed by Salik Company / RTA Dubai Q Mobility / Abu Dhabi Government
Where applies Dubai Salik toll gates only Abu Dhabi DARB toll gates
Tag required Yes No
Registration salik.ae darb.qmobility.ae or DARB App
Toll gates 10 gates in Dubai 6 gates in Abu Dhabi
Toll rate AED 4 or AED 6, based on time AED 4 during peak hours for main bridge gates; Al Qurm and Ghantout operate 24/7
Fine for non-registration AED 100 / AED 200 / AED 400 after grace period AED 100 / AED 200 / AED 400 after grace period

Tip: Your Salik tag and account only work in Dubai. They do not work for Abu Dhabi DARB toll gates. If you drive through DARB gates, register separately through the DARB website or app to avoid fines.

Also Read - Abu Dhabi: Two New Darb Toll Gates Go Live Today, Dh4 Fee to Apply 24/7

Service Link / Contact
Official Salik Website www.salik.ae
Salik Call Centre 800 72545 (toll-free, 24/7)
Salik Tag Activation Online www.salik.ae > Salik Services > Register and Activate a Salik Tag
Smart Salik App — iOS App Store — search 'Smart Salik'
Smart Salik App — Android Google Play Store — search 'Smart Salik'
Email for Exemption Applications specialaccounts@salik.ae
DARB (Abu Dhabi Toll) www.darb.ae
Shipment Tracking (Online Tag Orders) www.aramex.com (using shipment number from SMS)

Sources & Disclaimer

All information in this article is sourced from official UAE government and RTA sources: salik.ae, rta.ae, and official RTA press releases, and is for reference only. Toll rates, gate counts and service details reflect the most current publicly available information as of May 2026. Salik rates and policies may change — always verify current information at www.salik.ae before making decisions.

Related Links
Salik Toll System - Charges, Locations & Toll Gates How to Check Salik Fines in Dubai
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?
How to Pay Tolls on Your Rental Cars in Dubai

Salik Registration FAQs

Do I need to activate a Salik tag bought online?

No. Tags purchased directly through the official Salik website (salik.ae) or the Smart Salik App are automatically activated once the payment is confirmed and you receive an SMS. However, tags bought from petrol stations or other retailers must be manually activated through the website, app, or call centre.

How long does Salik activation take?

Online and app-based activation is usually completed and confirmed within a few hours via SMS. Phone activation takes up to 2 hours for the confirmation SMS to arrive. In-person activation at RTA Customer Happiness Centres is immediate.

Can I register Salik online without visiting an RTA centre?

Yes. Salik registration is 100% digital. You can complete the entire process — purchasing a tag, activating it, and creating your account — online through salik.ae or the Smart Salik App without visiting any centre.

What is the Salik account number and where do I find it?

Your Salik account number is a 7–10 digit unique identifier assigned when your account is created. It is not the same as your tag number or plate number. You'll receive it in your welcome SMS. You can also find it in the top-right corner of the salik.ae website after logging in, or retrieve it via salik.ae > Other Services > Retrieve Account and PIN.

What happens if my Salik balance runs out?

If your balance is insufficient when you pass a toll gate, you have 5 working days to recharge. If you don't recharge within this period, a fine of AED 50 per day may be applied. Top up your account immediately through salik.ae, the Smart Salik App, or any supported recharge channel.

Can I use the same Salik tag on two vehicles?

No. Each Salik tag is registered to a specific vehicle and linked to its plate number. Using a tag on any other vehicle is a violation. If you sell your car or transfer ownership, the tag must be deactivated. The new owner must purchase and register a new tag.

What should I do if my Salik tag is lost or stolen?

Deactivate the tag immediately to avoid being charged for toll crossings by whoever has it. You can deactivate through salik.ae, the Smart Salik App, or by calling 800 72545. After deactivation, purchase a new tag and activate it.

How do I register Salik for a company vehicle?

For company-owned or fleet vehicles, you'll need to provide a copy of the trade licence in addition to the standard documents. Corporate customers with large fleets should contact Salik at 800 72545 for dedicated fleet registration support.

Can I recharge my Salik account from outside the UAE?

Yes. You can recharge through the salik.ae website or the Smart Salik App using a credit or debit card from outside the UAE. No physical visit is needed. Your balance stays active, and you can drive through gates as soon as you return to Dubai.

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Last Updated At - 24 May 2026

Latest Salik News and Updates (2024–2026)

  • Variable Toll Pricing Introduced Salik Company P.J.S.C. introduced variable toll pricing across all Salik gates from January 31, 2025. Under this system, drivers pay AED 6 during peak hours, AED 4 during low-peak hours, and no toll during late-night free hours. The aim is to support smoother traffic movement across Dubai’s road network.
    January 31, 2025
  • Two New Toll Gates AddedTwo new Salik gates became operational on November 24, 2024: Business Bay Crossing on Al Khail Road and Al Safa South on Sheikh Zayed Road. Their addition brought the total number of Salik gates in Dubai to 10. A one-hour rule applies between Al Safa North and South, similar to Al Mamzar North and South.
    November 24, 2024
  • Salik Registration Remains PaperlessRTA discontinued paper-based Salik registration forms. It moved Salik registration and activation to digital channels. Drivers can activate tags, recharge accounts, add vehicles, request statements, apply for exemptions, and object to violations through Salik’s online services.
    Invalid Date

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