Abu Dhabi road toll now postponed until 2021

For whom the road tolls: No Abu Dhabi road-use charges until next year…

The Abu Dhabi road toll system was initially meant to be implemented at the beginning of this year, 2020. The model, which is similar to Dubai’s Salik, has a network of tollgates on busy roads, which will automatically elicit charges when your car passes through them… once they’re switched on, that is.

The government decided to delay charges with a three-month grace period from January 2020, allowing all Abu Dhabi road-users (not just those vehicles registered in the emirate) the opportunity to sign up.

Earlier today (March 16), the Abu Dhabi Government Media Office announced on Twitter that it would extend the grace period.

Exempting all vehicles from traffic tariff from road tolls to the end of 2020.

— Abu Dhabi Government Media Office (@admediaoffice) March 16, 2020

The road toll charges now won’t come into force until early 2021, which is excellent road trippin’ news and exactly the kind of wallet-friendly boost we need right now.

If any Dubai dwellers need an excuse to hop in the car and make the quick trip down to the capital, check out some of the super tempting staycations the emirate has on offer now.

When the toll system is up and running, there are four tollgates to be aware of on bridges leading to Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed, Sheikh Khalifa, Al Maqtaa and Mussafah. A map of the precise locations can be found on the registration website itself.

When you pass through the toll gates during peak hour, you’ll be charged Dhs4 (that’s 7am to 9am and 5pm to 7pm, Saturday to Thursday). For all other times, including Fridays and public holidays, it will be free to pass through the toll gates.

There will be a maximum daily toll charge of Dhs16 per vehicle.

But remember, this pause in payment isn’t forever. Once the tolls are switched on, motorists who don’t comply with the rules may face fines of up to Dhs10,000.