Understanding Salik, Parking, and Fines for New Dubai Car Owners

Understanding Salik, Parking, and Fines for New Dubai Car Owners (2025 Guide)
Last updated: October 2025

Owning a car in Dubai comes with unmatched convenience — from breezing through Sheikh Zayed Road to weekend drives to the desert. But for new car owners, understanding how Salik, parking systems, and traffic fines work is essential. These are part of daily driving life in Dubai and can save you money, time, and a lot of unnecessary stress.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know in simple, practical terms — whether you just bought your first used car in Dubai or recently moved to the UAE.

What Is Salik?

Salik is Dubai’s electronic toll collection system, launched by the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority). Instead of traditional toll booths, Salik uses automated tag scanning to deduct toll fees every time you pass under a Salik gate.

There are currently eight active Salik gates in Dubai, located on major roads like Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Garhoud Bridge, and Al Maktoum Bridge.

How It Works:

• You’ll need to buy a Salik tag, usually available at petrol stations or online.
• The tag must be attached to your car’s windshield.
• Every time you pass a Salik gate, AED 4 is automatically deducted from your prepaid Salik account.
• No cash, no stopping — it’s fully automated.

Top Up & Manage Salik:

You can manage your Salik account easily via:

• Salik app (iOS & Android)
• RTA website
• Dubai Drive app
• Online banking or kiosks

Tip: Always keep a balance of at least AED 20 to avoid fines. If your account is empty, you have five days to recharge before a penalty of AED 50 per toll crossing applies.

Parking in Dubai: How It Works

Parking in Dubai is managed by the RTA, and the system is both digital and easy to use — once you understand the basics.

Types of Parking:

1. Public Parking (RTA zones):
   • Paid parking zones are marked with blue or orange signs.
   • Charges range from AED 2 to AED 20 per hour, depending on the zone.
   • You can pay via SMS, the Dubai Drive app, or the RTA parking meters.

1. Mall & Private Parking:

1. • Usually free for the first few hours.
   • After that, rates vary depending on the mall or operator (e.g., AED 20/hour after 4 hours at Dubai Mall).

1. Residential Parking Permits:

1. • Residents can apply for annual or seasonal parking permits through the RTA website.

How to Pay via SMS:

Text the following format to 7275 (RTA):
PlateNumber<space>ZoneNumber<space>Duration
Example: A12345 345A 2 → This means plate A12345, Zone 345A, for 2 hours.

You’ll get a confirmation message right away.

Understanding Traffic Fines in Dubai

Dubai’s traffic system is one of the most advanced — with speed cameras, AI-based monitoring, and radar systems across the city. While this ensures safety, it also means fines can add up quickly if you’re not careful.

Common Fines to Watch Out For:

How to Check and Pay Fines:

You can view or pay fines through:

• RTA Dubai app
• Dubai Police app or website
• Dubai Drive app
• Kiosks and service centers

Pro Tip: Always check your fines before renewing your registration. Outstanding fines can block your renewal.

Tips for New Car Owners in Dubai

1. Link your Salik account to your car immediately — especially if you’ve just bought a used car.
2. Update your contact details on RTA and Dubai Police systems so you receive SMS alerts.
3. Avoid peak-hour zones like Sheikh Zayed Road during rush hours (7–9 AM, 5–7 PM).
4. Use the Dubai Drive app — it combines parking, Salik, and fines all in one place.
5. Check your car registration regularly — fines for expired registration add up fast.

Why This Matters for Used Car Buyers

When buying a used car in Dubai, make sure the Salik tag and registration are properly transferred to your name. Some sellers forget to remove their Salik tags — leading to confusion or fines later.

You can verify and update ownership details directly through RTA Smart Services or at any Tasjeel center.

Final Thoughts

Understanding Salik, parking, and fines is the key to stress-free car ownership in Dubai. With a little attention to detail and the right apps, managing your daily driving costs becomes simple and predictable — leaving you to enjoy the smooth highways and incredible convenience of driving in the UAE.

If you’re looking to buy a used car in Dubai and want a smooth, transparent experience, visit Auto Trader UAE — the trusted marketplace for used cars in Dubai, offering great deals, verified listings, and expert advice for car buyers across the UAE.