If you thought Abu Dhabi’s Darb toll system was tough before, wait until Monday. The city’s road toll charges are stretching their muscles and adding two extra hours of peak-time fees. Yes, that means your afternoon drives just got a little pricier.
What’s Changing in the Darb System?
Starting September 1, drivers will now be charged Dh4 when crossing toll gates from 3pm to 7pm, instead of the previous 5pm–7pm slot. The morning timings (7am–9am)? Staying exactly the same, because nothing messes with Abu Dhabi’s morning rush hour.
The bad news: the daily Dh16 cap is gone. Yep, no more paying once and cruising toll-free for the rest of the day. The same goes for monthly caps, which previously helped frequent commuters save a bit of cash.
The silver lining? Exemptions remain for senior citizens, retirees, low-income families, and people of determination.
Where Are the Toll Gates?
If you’re wondering where you’ll get caught, here’s the line-up:
- Sheikh Khalifa Bridge
- Sheikh Zayed Bridge
- Al Maqta Bridge
- Musaffah Bridge
These gates are basically Abu Dhabi’s guardians of peak-hour traffic flow.
Why the Change?
The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) says this update is all about reducing congestion and keeping traffic flowing during Abu Dhabi’s busiest times. With the capital’s population now topping 4.1 million and cars multiplying like Karak tea stands, the move makes sense—though drivers might not agree when their wallets feel lighter.
Abu Dhabi on the Move
The Darb system has been around since 2021, and with Abu Dhabi’s rapid population growth, it looks like it’s here to stay. More residents, more cars, more tolls—it’s all part of the emirate’s plan to manage its booming urban life.
