Dubai Expands Road Network: 2 New Solar-Powered Salik Gates Launch Nov 24
Dubai introduces Business Bay and Al Safa South toll gates, bringing total Salik points to 10. Learn about locations, traffic impact, and sustainable innovations.
By Vadim Kouznetsov, published
Dubai’s road infrastructure reaches a significant milestone as Salik PJSC introduces two additional toll gates, bringing the total count to 10. The new installations at Business Bay Crossing and Al Safa South mark a strategic move to enhance traffic flow across the emirate.
Key Locations and Impact
The Business Bay gate, positioned at Business Bay Crossing on Al Khail Road, serves as a crucial point for commuters from Sharjah, Al Nahda, and Al Qusais. Meanwhile, the Al Safa South gate on Sheikh Zayed Road occupies the stretch between Al Meydan Street and Umm Al Sheif Street.
Projected Traffic Improvements
According to Salik CEO Ibrahim Al Haddad, the new gates will bring substantial improvements:
Business Bay Crossing Gate:
- 12-15% traffic reduction on Al Khail Road
- 10-16% decrease on Al Rabat Street
Al Safa South Gate:
- 15% reduction in right-turn traffic from Sheikh Zayed Road to Meydan Street
- Better flow between Financial Center Street and Meydan Street
- Enhanced distribution to First Al Khail Street and Al Asayel Street
Innovative Payment Structure
The Al Safa South gate introduces a practical payment system: motorists passing through both northern and southern Safa gates within an hour will only pay once, streamlining the toll experience for regular commuters.
Sustainable Innovation
In a pioneering move for Dubai’s transport infrastructure, both new gates will operate almost entirely on solar power, supporting Dubai’s environmental objectives and demonstrating commitment to renewable energy solutions.
Current Pricing and Performance
- Fixed fee remains at AED 4 per gate crossing
- Recent performance metrics:
- 593 million journeys recorded in 2023
- 238.5 million trips from January to June 2024
- AED 1.1 billion revenue (H1 2024), showing 5.6% year-on-year growth
Future Developments
While no immediate plans exist for additional gates beyond the November 24 launch, future expansions will depend on:
- Traffic patterns
- Congestion levels
- Technical assessments
- RTA transport strategy reviews
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) maintains oversight of the toll system, with any modifications requiring approval from Dubai’s Executive Council.
Note: This article was updated on 02/11/2024 with the latest information from Salik PJSC.
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