Transport systems are deemed fundamental, especially when it comes to the functioning of any society. Out of all these systems, tolls bear a lot of importance in financing and growth of infrastructure. Some of them include the Salik toll system used in Dubai. This article aims to explore Is It Necessary To Stick A Salik Tag? and provides detailed information to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Salik Tag?
Definition
The Salik tag is a small sticker that is fixed on the windshield of the vehicle to facilitate the process of electronic tolling. It employs Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to electronically charge toll fees based on the passed-through toll stations in Dubai.
How It Works
- Activation: After buying the Salik tag, it is now placed on the car and made working by following the registration process on Salik’s official website or through the Salik application.
- Usage: When one passes through a toll gate, the RFID system reads the tag, and the fee is then debited to the Salik account.
- Top-up: You need to ensure that your Salik account has sufficient balance to cover the toll charges. You can refill your account through the internet or the application, as well as at different retailers.
Is It Necessary to Stick a Salik Tag?
Yes
Yes, it becomes mandatory to fix a Salik tag on your car if you want to travel through some roads in Dubai that are under the Salik system. The Salik tag is compulsory to be with vehicles that pass through these toll bridges and roads.
Legal Requirements
As for now, it is compulsory for all vehicles that pass through toll roads to have a Salik tag in Dubai. Not using a valid Salik tag or having it attached poorly may lead to fines and penalties.
Convenience
The Salik tag is convenient since it eliminates the need to worry about toll fees. In the absence of the tag, one has to slow down at the tolling booth to pay the toll fee, which can be even tiring and a waste of time.
Efficiency
- Time-Saving: Electronic toll collection would mean that there is less congestion at toll gates thus improving traffic flow.
- Reduced Emissions: In this respect, the Salik system helps to decrease emissions because there is no need for frequent stops and starts at toll booths.
How to Get a Salik Tag
Purchasing
You can purchase a Salik tag from various outlets, including:
- Salik customer service centers
- Petrol stations (such as Enoc, Eppco, and Adnoc)
- Online through the Salik website
Activation
After purchasing your Salik tag, you need to activate it by:
- Logging in to the Salik website or downloading the Salik app
- You have to provide your car details and the specific ID number of the tag
- Confirming your registration and ensuring your account has sufficient balance
How to Stick a Salik Tag Correctly
Placement
The manner in which the Salik tag is hung on the windscreen is very important to the efficiency of the Salik system. Here’s how to do it:
- Clean the Area: Make sure the place where you intend to fix the tag is clean and free from moisture.
- Position: The tag should be installed behind the rearview mirror in the shadow zone if it is possible.
- Application: Peel off the backing strip and affix the tag to the windshield securely, using your fingers to push out the trapped air.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect Placement: If the tag is positioned too low or too high in the windshield, it becomes difficult for the RFID reader to identify the tag.
- Not Activating the Tag: Make sure to activate the tag before use. An inactive tag will not be recognized, resulting in fines.
- Insufficient Balance: Ensure that your Salik account balance is always sufficient so that you will not be charged additional fees.
Benefits of Using a Salik Tag
Financial Benefits
- Avoid Fines: Don’t get caught in the middle of the road with an improperly placed Salik tag or one that isn’t switched on: that’s how you avoid fines and penalties.
- Discounts and Promotions: At times, Salik has other deals and sales on the tag which can be beneficial in acquiring it at a lower price.
Environmental Benefits
By preventing vehicular emissions during peak traffic hours, the Salik system supports environmental sustainability. This toll collection system also avoids vehicles having to sit at toll booths for a long time, which in turn saves on fuel and emissions.
Enhanced Traffic Management
Salik tags improve the traffic to be well managed by avoiding congestion at toll gates. This results in an enhanced transport system, as well as safer roads to drive on for everyone.
Read Also: Abu Dhabi: Jumped a Red Light? HUGE Fines!
Final Words
The Salik tag is an integral part of the toll system in Dubai and gives many advantages in terms of convenience, time-saving, and financial and environmental effects. In the given article, one will learn about the legal consequences of not sticking a Salik tag on your vehicle, the ways to avoid fines, and start driving without interruptions. Regardless of whether one lives in Dubai or is just visiting, using a Salik tag is one of those small measures that can greatly impact any driver.
