New Traffic Pricing Policies by Dubai’s RTA: What You Need to Know?

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to implement significant changes to its traffic pricing policies, aiming to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. These adjustments, expected to launch in early 2025, will affect Salik road tolls, parking fees, and introduce congestion pricing during major events.

Salik Road Toll Pricing Changes

Starting in January 2025, the RTA will introduce Variable Road Toll Pricing for Salik tolls, with different rates depending on the time of day. The toll system will be free from 1 am to 6 am to encourage off-peak travel. For weekday peak hours, which run from 6 am to 10 am and 4 pm to 8 pm, motorists will face a toll of Dh 6. During off-peak hours (10 am to 4 pm and 8 pm to 1 am), the toll will be reduced to Dh 4. Sundays will feature a flat toll rate of Dh 4, with the road toll again being free during the early morning hours (1 am to 6 am).

Variable Parking Fees

In March 2025, Dubai will introduce Variable Parking Tariffs aimed at managing demand for parking spaces more effectively. Premium parking spaces will be priced at Dh 6 per hour during the morning (8 am to 10 am) and evening (4 pm to 8 pm) peak hours, while other parking spaces will be charged Dh 4 per hour. Off-peak hours (10 am to 4 pm and 8 pm to 10 pm) will maintain the same rate, and parking will be free during the night (10 pm to 8 am) and on Sundays.

Congestion Pricing Near Event Zones

From February 2025, the RTA will implement Congestion Pricing around high-traffic event zones, such as the Dubai World Trade Centre, during major events. Public parking in these areas will be charged Dh 25 per hour, aiming to manage the influx of visitors and reduce traffic congestion during large-scale events.

Why These Changes Matter?

These pricing adjustments are part of Dubai’s ongoing efforts to improve traffic management and encourage better driving habits. The implementation of variable tolls and parking fees is designed to distribute traffic more evenly throughout the day and to reduce congestion during peak times. Additionally, the introduction of congestion pricing near major event zones aims to make it easier for people to attend events without being hindered by gridlock.

Motorists and residents of Dubai should stay informed about these upcoming changes to avoid unexpected charges and to plan their travel times more effectively. Keep an eye on official RTA announcements and make sure to adjust your travel schedules accordingly to benefit from off-peak rates.

With the introduction of Variable Road Toll Pricing, Variable Parking Fees, and Congestion Pricing, Dubai’s RTA is taking significant steps toward reducing traffic congestion and improving the city’s transportation infrastructure. These changes, set to roll out in early 2025, will help ensure a more efficient and sustainable traffic flow in the city.

For more updates on the RTA’s new traffic pricing policies and how they may impact you, stay tuned to official RTA communications.

Afsheen Gohar

Afsheen Gohar is a seasoned writer with a wealth of experience in crafting authentic and well-researched articles. Her dedication to delivering high-quality content is evident in her work, where she combines a passion for storytelling with a commitment to accuracy and depth. Afsheen’s writing reflects her ability to engage readers with compelling narratives while providing valuable insights on a diverse range of topics.