If your travel plans or daily commute involve driving into Abu Dhabi, there is a significant change you need to be aware of. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) has announced an important update to its DARB Road Toll Executive Regulations. As of September 1, 2025, the daily and monthly caps on toll fees will be removed.
This decision is a strategic move by the authorities to improve traffic flow and alleviate congestion, especially during peak hours. For many drivers, this will require a fresh look at their travel habits and budget.
Here’s a full breakdown of the new rules and what they mean for you.
New regulations’ impact on your wallet
Before the new rules, the DARB system capped daily charges at AED 16. This meant that no matter how many times you drove through a toll gate in a single day, you would never pay more than that amount. There were also monthly caps, which varied depending on the number of vehicles you had registered.
From September 1, these limits will no longer exist. Instead, every single time a vehicle passes a toll gate during peak hours, it will incur the standard AED 4 fee. This change is meant to encourage drivers to make smarter choices about when and where they travel. It is a clear push towards using alternative routes, public transport, or shifting travel to off-peak times to help everyone get around more smoothly.
The new timings you need to know
While the individual fee per pass is staying at AED 4, the peak hours for charging are changing. The morning peak remains from 7:00 am to 9:00 am, Monday to Saturday. However, the evening peak hours are being extended.
The new evening peak will run from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This adds a full two hours to the afternoon charging window. As always, there will be no fees on Sundays or official public holidays, providing a welcome break for weekend travel.
How to manage your journey under the new rules
This is the perfect time to review your daily routine. If you regularly cross a toll gate multiple times a day during peak hours, your total monthly cost is likely to increase. To stay on top of your spending, ensure your DARB account has sufficient credit to avoid any fines for an insufficient balance. You can easily manage your account and top it up using the official DARB website or their dedicated app.
For those who are not yet registered, it is a simple process you can complete online. All vehicles, including those from other emirates, must have an active DARB account to use the toll gates.
Another great option is to explore Abu Dhabi’s public transportation. The bus network is a reliable and affordable alternative for many journeys and can help you avoid the new fees entirely.
Exemptions are still in place
The new regulations do not alter the existing exemptions for certain groups. People of determination, senior citizens, retirees, and low-income families are still eligible for exemptions. However, it is important to remember that you must register your vehicle and apply for this exemption through the official channels.
This policy change is a sign of Abu Dhabi’s commitment to building a smart, sustainable, and efficient transport network for the future. While the adjustments may take some getting used to, the ultimate goal is a better experience on the roads for everyone.
Read More:
- Indian Independence Day Dining Offers to Try in Dubai and Abu Dhabi – Social Kandura
- Abu Dhabi, Al Ain announce partial road closures in mid-August – Social Kandura
For the latest local news and updates, follow Social Kandura on our platforms.
