Dubai is set to introduce dynamic toll fees and parking charges, starting in 2025. It was very recently announced by The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) that the city will implement Variable Road Toll Pricing (Salik) and Variable Parking Tariff Policies as part of a broader strategy to improve traffic flow.
For the first time, Salik toll fees will rise from AED4 to AED6 during peak hours, specifically between 6 am and 10 am, and 4 pm and 8 pm. Off-peak hours, from 10 am to 4 pm and 8 pm to 1 am, will maintain the current AED4 toll rate.
The decision has sparked a response from residents, many of whom are calling for a hybrid work culture to ease the impact. The Finance 360 had earlier reported that residents traveling from distant locations mentioned they would no longer opt for their private vehicles due to the combined costs of fuel, parking, and tolls. The question is: will flexibility ease things?
Dr. Hesham Abdalla, Director of Hexitime, shared that he “strongly advocates” for hybrid work policies, especially as rising Salik and parking fees create additional challenges for commuters.
“At Hexitime, our hybrid working model empowers our staff by offering flexibility, reducing commuting stress, and giving them greater control over how and where they work. This approach not only mitigates travel-related costs and time but also fosters a culture of trust and productivity, enabling our team to perform at their best,” he noted.
Extensive effects on physical well-being
We spoke to Dr. Le Berre Christophe, Medical Director at PHHC, who highlighted how excessive travel also leads to neck pain and back aches.
He said, “The fast-paced lifestyle, combined with reduced physical activity and improper ergonomics at work and home, aggravates back pain. With less activity, no time for sports or practice, a lack of relaxation, and a stressful, toxic environment, the consequences are significant.”
Several other factors are also coming into play. With the UAE’s new implementations, motorists and residents are actively considering alternatives to reduce their spending.
