Starting Monday, September 1, the Darb toll gate timings are changing. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) has announced that the evening tariff will be extended. Instead of being active only from 5pm to 7pm, charges will now apply from 3pm to 7pm, Monday through Saturday. Morning timings remain the same, so no changes there. I have all the important details you need to know about the changes coming soon, so keep reading to find out more.
Also read: A UAE Resident’s Guide To Getting A Saudi Arabia Visit Visa
Sundays & Holidays Stay Free
The good news? Sundays and official public holidays will remain toll-free. So, if you’re planning family outings or long drives on weekends, you can still enjoy a smooth ride without worrying about toll charges.
No More Daily or Monthly Caps
One of the biggest changes is the removal of daily and monthly caps. Previously, drivers paid a maximum of AED 16 per day or up to AED 200 per month for the first car (AED 150 for the second, AED 100 for the third). But now, there’s no cap, meaning you’ll pay the standard AED 4 fee every time you pass through a toll gate.
Exemptions Still Apply
Don’t worry, if you’re part of the exempt groups, you’ll still enjoy the same benefits. People of Determination, low-income families, senior citizens, and retirees will continue to be exempt from toll charges under existing policies.
DARB Locations
Unlike Dubai, which has 10 (unbelievable!) toll gates throughout the city, there are only four toll gates located on bridges connecting us to the capital city. Those are –
Mussafah Bridge.
The Mussafah Bridge in Abu Dhabi connects the mainland to Mussafah, easing traffic congestion and providing access to the industrial area. It starts near the eastern ring road, linking it to highways toward Shahama and Dubai. The bridge ends near a roundabout providing access to various directions, including Al Ain Road, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, and Dubai.
Sheikh Zayed Bridge:
The 842-meter-long Abu Dhabi bridge starts at the intersection of Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Saadah Street, near the Park Arjaan by Rotana Hotel. It ends on the other side of the Maqta Channel, connecting Abu Dhabi island to the mainland. The bridge spans the Maqta Channel, providing a crucial connection between the island and the rest of the UAE.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Bridge
The 64-meter-high Abu Dhabi bridge is known for its unique architectural design, featuring a striking design with rolling curves, and is an important landmark and a major transportation route connecting the island to the mainland.
Al Maqtaa Bridge
Approximately 300 meters long, the Maqta bridge starts on Abu Dhabi Island and ends on the mainland, forming a crucial link for transportation and trade. The bridge is located near the Al Maqta Fort, which is also a historical landmark.
Why The Change?
The ITC explained that these updates are aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing congestion on Abu Dhabi’s main roads during peak hours. The Darb toll system, first introduced in 2021, currently manages eight toll gates located on the main bridges in and out of the city.
