Salik Recharge Guide 2025: A Complete Guide for Rental and Private Cars

Salik operates as a toll collection system in Dubai to maintain continuous citywide traffic movement. Drivers who operate their personal cars or rent vehicles must comprehend the Salik recharge system as well as the payment options and rental service billing procedures. This article provides you with all the necessary information regarding Dubai Salik including its pricing structure and current policies and recent developments.
What is Salik in Dubai?

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA Salik) operates Salik Dubai as its automated toll system. Moreover, Salik was established by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) during 2007 to remove a physical toll booth which enables consistent traffic movement. The registered Salik recharge account associated with a vehicle automatically deducts fees when any vehicle passes through a toll gate.
Salik Charges for Private Cars
For private car owners, the Salik system applies a flat rate per crossing. The current toll charge for personal vehicles is AED 4 per gate. These charges apply 24/7, with no peak or off-peak differentiation.
Salik Charges for Rental Cars

For rental cars, Salik charges vary depending on the car rental company’s policies. While the base fee remains AED 4 per crossing, rental companies typically apply additional administrative fees. Some agencies charge a daily flat rate, while others add a service fee per crossing. Below is a comparison of standard Salik charges for rental and private cars:
Salik Charges in Dubai – Location & Pricing
Here’s a breakdown of the Dubai Salik check for different locations:
Salik Toll Gate Location |
Fee for Private Cars |
Fee for Rental Cars |
Al Maktoum Bridge |
AED 4 |
AED 5-6 |
Al Garhoud Bridge |
AED 4 |
AED 5-6 |
Al Mamzar North |
AED 4 |
AED 5-6 |
Al Mamzar South |
AED 4 |
AED 5-6 |
Al Safa |
AED 4 |
AED 5-6 |
Airport Tunnel |
AED 4 |
AED 5-6 |
Jebel Ali |
AED 4 |
AED 5-6 |
Sheikh Zayed Road |
AED 4 |
AED 5-6 |
Note: Rental car fees vary by agency, with some adding additional admin charges.
Salik Charges Policy for Rental Cars
Each car rental service has a unique Salik charge policy. Here’s what you should know:
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Companies operate at two different rates for Dubai Salik tolls by either using the basic AED 4 check fee or adding service fees resulting in charges between AED 5 and AED 6 for each toll.
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Certain agencies require an upfront Salik recharge amount as a deposit.
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Salik charges are usually added to your final bill when returning the rental car.
How to Pay Salik Charges when using rental cars
For private car owners, Salik charges are automatically deducted from the prepaid Salik account. For rental cars, customers have the following payment options:
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Automatic Deduction: The rental company deducts charges from the customer’s registered payment method.
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Cash Payment at the End of Rental: Some agencies provide a breakdown and require manual payment upon vehicle return.
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Deposit Adjustment: Charges are deducted from the security deposit held by the rental company.
How to Pay Salik Charges

Whether you drive your own car or rent one, knowing how to pay Salik online and manage your balance is crucial.
1. Salik Recharge Online
To buy Salik tag online or recharge your account, visit the official RTA Salik website or use the mobile app. Available payment methods include:
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Credit/debit card
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UAE bank transfer
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Recharge vouchers
2. Salik Balance Check Online
To check your balance, you can use:
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Dubai Salik check via SMS
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Salik balance check online on the RTA website
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RTA Salik balance check via the Salik app
3. Paying Salik Fines
If you fail to maintain a sufficient balance, you may incur Salik fines. To settle these fines, use the pay Salik online portal.
Where to Buy a Salik Tag Online

To drive in Dubai, your vehicle must have a Salik recharge account linked to a valid tag. You can purchase one from:
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The Salik recharge online store
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Petrol stations across Dubai
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Select banks and authorized retailers
Salik Recharge Card Price

The cost of a Salik recharge card price varies based on the balance you select. Typically:
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AED 50 recharge card = AED 50 balance
AED 100 recharge card = AED 100 balance
Avoiding Additional Salik Fees
To minimize costs, consider these tips:
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Use Alternate Routes: Some roads allow you to bypass Salik gates without significantly increasing travel time.
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Check Rental Terms: Check with the rental company if they bill customers by toll crossings or provide a single daily fee.
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Plan Your Travel Timing: You should plan your trips to avoid peak hours when peak-hour surcharges are active.
Final Thoughts
It has been summarized that, people who drive in Dubai need to understand Salik operations to rent a vehicle either as a resident or traveler. You should maintain an active Salik recharge account because inactive accounts lead to fines. Understanding your Dubai Salik timing with online balance check and pay Salik features through internet services will make your driving experience smoother.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How can I check my Salik balance?
A: Use the RTA Salik balance check feature via the website or app.
Q: Are there new Salik toll gates Dubai?
A: Yes, RTA occasionally introduces new toll gates. Stay updated on the Dubai Salik check website.
Q: What happens if I don’t have enough balance?
A: You may face Salik fines. Always check your Salik balance check online to avoid penalties.
By understanding Salik recharge, payment methods, and how charges apply to rentals, you can ensure a smooth driving experience in Dubai!