Dubai has launched a new initiative allowing certain residents and their relatives to apply for a waiver on Salik toll fees. This move aligns with the emirate's commitment to inclusivity and improving the quality of life for all residents.
Understanding Salik and Its Exemption Programme
Salik, Dubai’s electronic toll collection system managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), automatically deducts toll fees from a prepaid account when vehicles pass through any of the ten toll gates across the city. To ease transportation costs for individuals with disabilities, a new exemption programme has been introduced.
Who Qualifies for the Exemption?
Residents facing the following challenges are eligible to apply for a Salik fee waiver:
- Mental disabilities
- Physical disabilities
- Autism
- Visual disabilities
Additionally, first and second-degree relatives of a person of determination can apply for an exemption if they are the vehicle owner. Eligible relations include:
- Parents
- Spouse (with a marriage contract)
- Children (with a birth certificate)
- Grandparents
- Siblings
- Grandchildren
Required Documents for Exemption Application
To apply for the toll waiver, applicants must submit the following:
- A copy of the valid vehicle registration card
- A copy of the valid Emirates ID
- A valid People of Determination card (issued by the Ministry of Community Development) or a Sanad card (issued by the Community Development Authority)
- Proof of relationship (if the applicant is a relative but not the vehicle owner)
All required documents must be emailed to specialaccounts@salik.ae.
Duration and Renewal of Exemption
The exemption is valid for one year and must be renewed annually to remain active. Renewal requires the submission of the same documents. If a person of determination wishes to change the exempted vehicle, they must provide a cancellation form for the previously approved exemption.
How to Apply
Applications can be submitted through two methods:
1. Through the Salik Website
- Enter the required details and upload the necessary documents.
- The Salik special accounts team will verify and process the request.
- Once approved, the applicant will be informed via phone.
2. Via Email
- Download the commitment form from the Salik website or request it via email.
- Send the completed form along with the required documents to specialaccounts@salik.ae.
- The application will be processed, and upon approval, the applicant will be notified.
Limitations and Processing Time
Only one vehicle per person of determination can be exempted. However, the exemption can be transferred to another vehicle upon cancellation of the previous one. The application process is free of charge and takes up to five working days, provided all documents meet the eligibility criteria.
How Salik Operates
Salik uses RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to charge vehicles automatically at toll gates. The system is fully automated, eliminating the need for booths or barriers. When a vehicle with a registered Salik tag passes through a toll gate, a fee (Dh6 or Dh4, depending on the time) is deducted from the driver’s prepaid account.
A Salik tag costs Dh100, which includes Dh50 in credit upon activation. Online purchases include an additional Dh20 service charge. Motorists can recharge their Salik accounts through online platforms or participating retail outlets.
Salik Toll Pricing Structure
Dubai’s Salik system offers variable toll pricing based on time and day:
- Peak hours (Weekdays): Dh6 (6am-10am, 4pm-8pm)
- Off-peak hours: Dh4 (10am-4pm, 8pm-1am)
- Late night (1am-6am): Toll-free
- Sundays: Dh4 throughout the day, toll-free from 1am-6am (except on public holidays and major events)
Locations of Salik Toll Gates
Dubai has ten Salik toll gates, including:
- Al Barsha
- Al Garhoud Bridge
- Al Maktoum Bridge
- Al Mamzar South
- Al Mamzar North
- Al Safa
- Airport Tunnel
- Jebel Ali
- Business Bay Crossing
- Al Safa South
This new exemption programme highlights Dubai’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion, ensuring that individuals with disabilities and their families face fewer financial barriers when navigating the city’s roads.
News Source: Khaleej Times
