If you’re moving to Abu Dhabi or commuting daily across the city, understanding road toll costs is essential. One of the most common charges drivers encounter is Darb, Abu Dhabi’s electronic road toll system. Similar to Salik in Dubai, Darb is designed to manage traffic congestion during peak hours, but how much does it actually cost, and when do you need to pay?
Here’s everything you need to know.
What Is Darb?
Darb is Abu Dhabi’s official electronic road toll gate system, introduced to help reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic flow across the emirate, especially during peak commuting hours. The system is managed by Abu Dhabi’s transport authorities and applies to vehicles entering or moving around high-traffic areas of the city.
Unlike Dubai’s Salik system, Darb does not require a physical tag or sticker to be installed on your car. Instead, it uses automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) technology to detect vehicles as they pass through designated toll gates. Cameras installed at these gates capture the vehicle’s licence plate and instantly link it to the registered Darb account.
Once detected, the applicable toll fee is automatically deducted from the vehicle owner’s Darb wallet, eliminating the need for cash payments, stopping at toll booths, or manual intervention. As long as your vehicle is registered and your account has sufficient balance, the process remains completely cashless, contact-free, and seamless.
Darb is primarily active during peak traffic hours, encouraging drivers to adjust travel times, use alternative routes, or consider public transport, ultimately helping to ease congestion on Abu Dhabi’s busiest roads.
How Much Does Darb Cost Per Crossing?
Darb charges are simple and fixed:
- AED 4 per crossing
- Applied only during peak hours
Each time your vehicle passes through a Darb toll gate during peak hours, AED 4 is deducted from your registered Darb wallet.
Darb Peak Hours Explained
You’ll only be charged during Abu Dhabi’s busiest traffic periods:
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- Evening: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Outside these times, including late nights, off-peak hours, Sundays, and public holidays, Darb tolls do not apply, even if you cross the toll gates.
Are There Daily or Monthly Darb Caps?
Previously, Darb had daily and monthly spending limits. These caps have now been removed.
What does this mean for drivers?
- AED 4 is charged for every peak-hour crossing
- There is no maximum daily or monthly limit
Frequent commuters who cross multiple toll gates during peak hours may see higher monthly costs.
Where Are Darb Toll Gates Located?
Darb toll gates are placed at key entry and exit points around Abu Dhabi, including:
- Sheikh Zayed Bridge
- Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Bridge
- Al Maqtaa Bridge
- Mussafah Bridge
These locations are known for heavy traffic during rush hours.
Do You Need to Register for Darb?
Yes, vehicle registration is mandatory.
Some important points to note are:
- A one-time registration fee applies per vehicle
- Registration is linked to your license plate
- Your Darb wallet must have sufficient balance
Failing to register or maintain balance can result in fines.
Who Is Exempt from Paying Darb?
Certain vehicle categories are exempt from Darb toll charges, including:
- Emergency vehicles (police, ambulance, civil defence)
- Public and school buses
- Motorcycles
- Registered taxis
Additional exemptions may be requested through the Darb platform.
So, How Much Does Darb Cost in Abu Dhabi?
In summary:
- AED 4 per crossing during peak hours
- Free during off-peak times
- No daily or monthly cap
Your total Darb cost depends on how often you drive and when you cross toll gates. Planning your trips outside peak hours can help reduce expenses, especially if you’re newly settled or frequently driving after moving within the city.
FAQs
1. How much does Darb cost in Abu Dhabi?
Darb costs AED 4 per crossing when you pass through a toll gate during peak hours.
2. Is Darb charged all day?
No. Darb is only charged during peak hours (7–9 AM and 3–7 PM). There are no charges during off-peak hours, Sundays, or public holidays.
3. Do I need to register for Darb before driving?
Yes. All vehicles must be registered on the Darb system, and your wallet must have sufficient balance to avoid fines.
4. What happens if I don’t have enough balance in my Darb account?
If your Darb wallet balance is insufficient, fines may apply. It’s important to top up your account before peak-hour travel.
