Abu Dhabi Extends Toll Hours, Adjusts Charges for Commuters

Abu Dhabi is changing its DARB toll system to try and fix traffic in the city. Starting September 1, 2025, you’ll only be charged tolls between 3 PM and 7 PM. Before, the toll times were different. Also, they’re getting rid of the daily and monthly toll limits. The point is to make traffic move better.

These changes might cut down on traffic in busy areas, which could make getting to and from work less of a headache. By changing when the tolls are active and taking away the limits, the city hopes people will think more about how they travel – maybe by using different roads or traveling when it’s not rush hour. Roads like Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Street should have fewer cars, especially in the evenings.

The Abu Dhabi Department of Transport says the new times should help keep traffic flowing smoothly. They suggest setting up accounts ahead of time, using electronic tags, and getting the app to easily pay tolls, so you don’t get fined. They’re making sure everyone is aware of the changes.

People have different opinions about this. Some like the simpler system and think it will help with traffic. Others are worried that getting rid of the monthly limits could mean higher costs for people who travel every day. The government says the changes were made to help everyone get around better.

Traffic experts think it might take a while for people to get used to the new toll times, but it could mean less traffic, fewer jams, and easier drives. The government says these changes fit with Abu Dhabi’s plan to be a smart city by handling traffic well and encouraging greener ways to get around. These toll hours are meant to work with other things the city is doing, like getting people to use buses, trains, carpools, and fixing up streets. By making the toll system better, Abu Dhabi wants to make sure getting around the city is safer, easier, and more reliable.