All about Buying a Salik Tag
In 2007, the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) introduced the Salik toll system to improve the traffic flow in Dubai. Salik makes the entire toll process easier as vehicles no longer need to stop by the toll gates. With the help of an RFID-based Salik tag, the system automatically deducts charges as the car passes through the gate. However, you have to buy a Salik tag and install it in your car.
Here is all you need to know about where to buy a Salik tag.
How to get your Salik tag
When you buy a car in Dubai, one of the next steps is to buy a Salik tag. Installing this tag on your windscreen, 1 cm under your rearview mirror allows you to drive through the toll gates in Dubai. Moreover, the system automatically deducts toll charges from the Salik account associated with that tag.
A Salik tag is available for AED 100. However, AED 50 from this amount is added to your Salik account balance. To get a Salik tag, all you have to do is submit the registration form and the photocopy of your car registration at the designated centres and shops. However, if you have registered online, there is no need to fill any form manually either.
RTA offers the motorists the following three ways to purchase a Salik tag in person:
- RTA Customer Service Centers
- Petrol stations: Emarat, EPPCO/ ENOC and ADNOC petrol stations
- Banks: Emirates NBD Bank branches and Dubai Islamic Bank
Alternatively, you can buy a Salik tag online from the RTA portal. The processing time is 5 minutes and the cost is AED 120 and the only requirements are a mobile number and a vehicle registration card.
In case of an online purchase, the Salik kit containing the tag is sent to the applicant right after the application submission. Once you install the Salik tag, you can travel through the toll gates. Account activation takes around 1 to 2 days, but there is no fine for this time. The toll fees for this period accumulates and is deducted from your account on activation. In case you do not receive an SMS of confirmation within ten days after application, you should contact Salik at their toll-free number, 800-SALIK (72545).
How to recharge your Salik account
Thanks to the Salik tag, a fee of AED 4 is deducted automatically from your Salik account. Crossing a Salik gate with an insufficient balance in the account can result in hefty fines so always check your Salik balance beforehand. However, the good news is you can charge your Salik account quite easily. Options to top-up your Salik account include banks, kiosks, ePay, Salik smart app, Salik recharge cards, RTA app and RTA website.
For more details check this guide on how to recharge Salik account.
FAQs
What do I need to buy a Salik tag?
You need a copy of your car registration, AED 100 to buy the Salik tag and top-up the Salik credit.
How much does a new Salik tag cost?
Salik tag cost is AED 100. This includes AED 50 for your Salik tag and AED 50 for the prepaid toll balance that will be added to your Salik account upon tag activation. If you purchase the tag online, there will be an additional 20 AED for delivery charges.
How do I set up Salik?
You can set up a Salik account online by visiting official Salik website and fill in your personal details as well as information about your vehicle and registration.
Have a look at these FAQs about Salik to find out more about it.
Now you know where to buy a Salik tag in Dubai.You will have to purchase whether you consider buying a used car or a new one. The previous owner of the car won’t give you their Salik tag as that means Salik fines being paid from their own account. However, the process of registering for Salik and buying a tag is easy and you can do it without an issue.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blog for more information on traffic laws and regulations in Dubai.