Dubai’s bustling streets are about to get a little smarter with the introduction of two new Salik toll plazas. Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has strategically placed these plazas to tackle the city’s growing traffic woes, promising smoother commutes and improved road infrastructure.
Where are the new Salik toll plazas?
Business Bay Crossing:
This plaza will target traffic flowing from Jebel Ali towards Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road.
Sheikh Rashid Street:
This plaza will be located near the Dubai Mall, aiming to manage congestion on this key artery.
How will these new Salik toll plazas benefit Dubai?
Reduced Traffic Congestion:
According to RTA, by incentivizing drivers to explore alternative routes, the plazas aim to alleviate congestion. Traffic congestion will be reduced by up to 16% on heavily used roads like Al Khail Road and Al Rebat Street.
Additionally, the toll plaza on Sheikh Rashid Street will reduce the right-turning traffic from Sheikh Zayed Road to Al Meydan Street by 15%. Traffic volumes from Al Meydan and Al Safa Streets to Sheikh Zayed Road will drop by about 42%.
Improved Travel Times:
Smoother traffic flow translates to quicker commutes for everyone. The existing Salik system has already contributed to a 6 million hour annual decrease in travel time across Dubai.
Infrastructure Investment:
Revenue from the tolls will be directly reinvested into Dubai’s vital road network and public transport projects. This ensures a sustainable and efficient transportation system for the future.
Public Transit Boost:
Additionally, it will encourage people to utilize Dubai’s excellent public transport options.
What to expect with the new Salik toll plazas?
- Salik Account Registration: Ensure your Salik account is active and updated to avoid any toll charges.
- Signage & Awareness Campaigns: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will be launching informative campaigns to educate drivers about the new plazas and their intended impact.
- Alternative Routes: Explore alternative routes like Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai – Al Ain Road, Ras Al Khor Road, and Al Manama Street to potentially avoid toll charges.
Mattar Al Tayer, RTA director general and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors, said, “The existing toll gates contributed to reducing the total travel time in Dubai by 6 million hours annually, decreasing traffic volumes on the Al Maktoum and Al Garhoud bridges by 26 per cent, reducing travel times on Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Ittihad Street by 24 per cent, and increasing the number of mass transit users by 9 million riders per annum.”
The introduction of these new Salik toll plazas marks a significant step towards a more efficient and sustainable transportation system in Dubai. While some may see them as an inconvenience, the long-term benefits for traffic flow, infrastructure development, and environmental impact cannot be ignored.
By embracing these changes and exploring alternative routes, Dubai residents can contribute to a smoother, more enjoyable driving experience for everyone.
How To Avoid Salik?
Motorists and travellers looking to avoid the Salik toll gates can do so by adjusting their navigation. Google Maps, Apple Maps, Waze and others can provide alternative routes by choosing to avoid toll gates on the app.
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