Dubai has launched a Salik fee exemption program that allows certain residents and their relatives to apply for a waiver of toll fees. This initiative, introduced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), aims to enhance accessibility and improve the quality of life for residents facing challenges.

Eligible individuals for the Salik fee exemption include those with mental disabilities, physical disabilities, autism, or visual disabilities. The exemption can also be requested by relatives of a person of determination, including parents, spouses (with a marriage contract), children (with a birth certificate), grandparents, siblings, and grandchildren. This approach ensures that close family members can act on behalf of the individual in need.

To apply for the Salik fee exemption, applicants must provide several documents. These include a copy of the valid vehicle registration card for the person of determination or one of their first or second-degree relatives, a valid Emirates ID for the applicant, and a card confirming the individual’s status as a person of determination issued by the Ministry of Community Development or the Sanad card from the Community Development Authority. Additionally, if the vehicle is not owned by the person of determination, proof of relationship must also be submitted. Applications can be sent via email to specialaccounts@salik.ae.

The exemption lasts for one year and must be renewed annually to avoid any violations. During the renewal process, applicants need to present the same documentation as required for the initial application. In cases of vehicle replacement, a cancellation form for the previous exemption must also be submitted.

Residents can apply for the exemption through the Salik website or via email. When applying online, users must enter their details and upload the required documents. The special accounts team will then verify and process the request, informing the applicant once approved. For email applications, customers must download the commitment form from the website, fill it out, and send it along with the necessary documents to the specified email address.

There is no limit to the number of exemptions granted, but only one vehicle can be exempted for each person of determination. If necessary, the exemption can be transferred to another vehicle upon cancellation of the previous exemption.

Salik operates as Dubai’s electronic toll collection system, utilizing RFID technology to automatically charge fees when vehicles pass through designated toll gates. Currently, there are ten Salik gates in Dubai, including locations such as Al Barsha, Al Garhoud Bridge, and Business Bay Crossing. The toll rates vary, with a charge of Dh6 during peak hours and Dh4 during off-peak times.

Motorists can maintain their Salik accounts by topping them up online or through participating retail outlets, but failing to keep a sufficient balance may result in penalties.