Driving in the UAE During Ramadan 2026: Tips, Salik & Parking Rules

18 February 2026

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, daily life in the UAE begins to shift. With shorter working hours and more community gatherings, changes are also made to toll gate timings and parking rules. Understanding these adjustments during Ramadan 2026 can help you plan your drives better, avoid unnecessary stress, and manage your expenses more effectively. 

Do Salik Toll Charges Change During Ramadan?

Last year, Dubai moved toward a variable pricing model for its Salik toll system (Salik, 2025) to manage traffic more effectively throughout the year. During the holy month, these timings are expected to adjust once again to accommodate the unique flow of commuters.

Due to the variable pricing system applied at all gates, drivers should be aware of the following Salik timings during the holy month of Ramadan:

Monday to Saturday

• Peak Hours: Designated between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with a toll charge of AED 6.
• Low-Peak Hours: Between 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM, with a standard charge of AED 4.
• Toll-Free Window: Salik is free during the early morning hours, between 2:00 AM and 7:00 AM, making it convenient for overnight travelers or those heading out for Suhoor.

On Sundays

• Peak Hours: Between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM, with a toll charge of AED 4.
• Low-Peak Hours: From 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM, also charged at AED 4.
• Toll-Free Window: Between 2:00 AM and 7:00 AM, no charge is applied.

By timing your departures to align with off-peak or toll-free windows, you can significantly reduce your monthly transportation expenses.

Are Public Parking Timings & Tolls Different During Ramadan?

Public parking in the UAE is another area where regulations adapt to the cultural needs of the month. The goal is to provide convenience for those attending evening prayers or breaking their fast with family.

The public parking hours and tolls during Ramadan in 2026 will typically follow this structure:

Tips for Drivers & Car Lessees During Ramadan

Navigating the UAE’s roads during Ramadan requires a bit of planning, whether you own your vehicle or lease one. Understanding peak Salik hours, adjusted parking regulations, and traffic patterns can save both time and expenses.

Practical Tips:

• Monitor Apps: Use the RTA or Salik apps to track toll charges and stay updated on any changes to gate pricing.
• Schedule Smartly: Try to plan errands or vehicle pick-ups during quieter mid-morning hours to avoid congestion.
• Leverage Navigation Tools: Real-time traffic apps can be especially helpful before Iftar, allowing you to find alternative routes and avoid congested toll gate roads.
• Check Vehicle Responsibility: When you lease from Art Elite Car Rental, Salik tolls and fines are taken care of by our operations team. Customers are only responsible for parking fees.

At ART Elite Car Rental, we provide high-performance vehicles that offer the comfort and reliability needed to handle the unique demands of the season. Our flexible leasing packages ensure that you have a dependable partner on the road, no matter how the schedule for Ramadan shifts. 

If you're looking to upgrade your commute this season, visit our range of SUVs to lease, or get in touch with our team for more information. 

Wishing you a safe and peaceful Ramadan! May your travels be smooth, and your time with loved ones filled with joy.