Abu Dhabi to Activate Two New Toll Gates on This Date

Transport authorities in Abu Dhabi have finalized the installation of two new road toll gates, expanding the Darb network to six locations. Motorists will begin facing charges at these new checkpoints starting next month, specifically from Monday, May 4. The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) confirmed that the new gates will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, representing a significant departure from the time-restricted pricing model currently used at the emirate's four existing gates.

The new infrastructure is strategically positioned to manage traffic flow at critical junctions. One gate is located on Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Street in Ghantoot, while the second is situated on Wahat Al Karama Street, covering both the entrance and exit of Sheikh Zayed Street. According to the ITC, these locations were selected following specialized traffic studies that analyzed density, mobility patterns, and the availability of alternative routes.

Under the new pricing structure, drivers will be charged Dh4 for every crossing through the new gates. This contrasts with the current system at the four operational gates (Sheikh Khalifa Bridge, Sheikh Zayed Bridge, Al Maqta Bridge, and Musaffah Bridge), where fees are only applied during peak hours: 7 am to 9 am and 3 pm to 7 pm, from Monday to Saturday. Outside these windows, crossings at the original gates remain free. However, the new expansion introduces a flat-rate, round-the-clock fee to further discourage unnecessary vehicle movement during all hours.

Despite the expanded charging window, the ITC reiterated exemptions for specific groups, including senior citizens, people with disabilities, low-income citizens, and retired citizens. To assist commuters in navigating the changes, the authority has suggested alternative routes. Drivers approaching the Al Qurm Toll Gate on Wahat Al Karama Street can utilize Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street or Arabian Gulf Street, while those near the Ghantoot Toll Gate are advised to use Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Street.

The Darb system, originally launched in January 2021, was introduced as a key component of the government's strategy to reduce urban congestion and promote public transport usage. With Abu Dhabi's population growing steadily and car registrations increasing, the pressure on the road network has intensified. This latest expansion aims to alleviate bottlenecks, particularly during traditional rush hours, by incentivizing route diversification and off-peak travel.