Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced the introduction of a new toll gate (Salik) at the Business Bay Crossing, in alignment with their comprehensive strategic plan. This plan aims to enhance road networks, integrate public transport routes and services, and improve technical road and transport systems. The initiative underscores the RTA's commitment to implementing policies that promote public transport usage and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Additionally, the RTA has disclosed the installation of the Al Safa South Toll Gate on Sheikh Zayed Road, positioned between Al Meydan and Umm Al Sheif Streets, for operational and organisational purposes. A single tariff will be applicable when crossing between the two Safa Gates (north and south) within a one-hour window.
These initiatives are part of the RTA's ongoing efforts to optimise traffic flows on Dubai's roads by redirecting traffic to alternative corridors, such as Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai-Al Ain Road, Ras Al Khor Road, and Al Manama Street. The measures also encourage the use of alternative Creek crossings like the Infinity Bridge and Al Shindagha Tunnel, while promoting less congested traffic routes for residents and visitors.
According to the RTA's plan, both toll gates are scheduled to be fully operational by November 2024, coinciding with the completion of the Al Khail Road Improvement Project.
His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, emphasised the role of toll gates in supporting road infrastructure and public transport projects. He noted that existing toll gates have contributed to reducing travel time in Dubai by 6 million hours annually, decreasing traffic volumes on key bridges and roads, and increasing the number of mass transit users.
Explaining the impact of the new toll gates, Al Tayer stated that the Business Bay Crossing Gate would redirect traffic from Jebel Ali towards Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and Emirates Roads, reducing traffic on Al Khail Road and other key streets. The Al Safa South Gate once operational, will optimise traffic flow and reduce congestion on Sheikh Zayed Road and surrounding streets.
Al Tayer stressed that these strategic measures are essential for achieving optimal use of road networks and ensuring the efficient functioning of Dubai's transportation system. The overall aim is to enhance the city's mobility, decrease travel times, and further encourage the use of public transport alternatives.