Introduction
Following in the footsteps of Dubai and its Salik toll system, Abu Dhabi is set to launch the DARB toll gateway starting January 2, 2021. The toll fee will be 4 AED per crossing. Charges will apply to drivers who choose to use any of the four bridges equipped with DARB gates, during peak hours from 7 AM to 9 AM and from 5 PM to 7 PM.
System Details
Unlike Dubai's toll system, which charges fees throughout the day, Abu Dhabi's toll will only apply during peak hours (7 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM). Outside of these hours, drivers can use the Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Sheikh Khalifa Bridge, Al Maqta Bridge, and Mussafah Bridge without incurring any toll fees.
How to Register Your Vehicle in the DARB Toll System
- Download the DARB app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
- Click on "Register Now."
- Enter your email address.
- Confirm your account by entering the password sent to your email.
- Select the emirate where your vehicle is registered.
- Enter your traffic file number.
- Provide an active mobile phone number.
- Enter the password sent to your mobile number.
- Set a password to complete the registration.
What Are the Registration Fees?
A registration fee of 100 AED per vehicle is required, with 50 AED credited back to your registered account.
What Is the Cost of Crossing the DARB Gate?
Each time a vehicle crosses the toll gate, 4 AED will be deducted from the registered account.
Is the Toll Applicable on All Days?
Unlike Dubai, Abu Dhabi's DARB toll system will charge drivers only from Saturday to Thursday during peak hours from 7 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM. No fees will be charged on Fridays, public holidays, or when crossing the gates outside of peak hours.
Are There Daily or Monthly Limits?
Yes, the maximum daily toll for each vehicle is 16 AED, with a monthly cap of 200 AED for the first vehicle, 150 AED for the second vehicle, and 100 AED per month for each additional vehicle registered under the same account.
Do I Need to Display the Sticker on My Vehicle's Windshield?
Since the DARB system scans vehicle license plates, there is no need to display a sticker on the vehicle's windshield.
Who Is Exempt from Paying the Toll?
Senior citizens aged 60 and above, retired citizens, people of determination, and low-income citizens can apply for exemption from toll charges. To apply, eligible individuals must visit the DARB website and submit exemption requests, specifying the type of exemption and attaching the necessary documents.
Which Vehicles Are Exempt from Paying the Toll?
Ambulances, military vehicles, civil defense vehicles, public buses, licensed taxis, licensed school buses, vehicles belonging to the Ministry of Interior, Abu Dhabi Police, police forces from other emirates, and trailers are exempt from any toll charges.
Is There a Grace Period to Avoid Fines When Crossing the Gates Without Sufficient Balance?
Registering your vehicle in the DARB system is mandatory for all drivers visiting or residing in Abu Dhabi. If a driver crosses a toll gate without registering, they will be granted a 10-day grace period to register their vehicle before a fine is issued. Additionally, drivers crossing the gate during peak hours without sufficient balance will have a 5-day grace period to recharge their account before a fine is imposed.
