DARB in Abu Dhabi: payment using a rented car
Abu Dhabi’s toll roads are a separate system, and a driver arriving from Dubai in a rented car should familiarize themselves with it before the trip. Below is a brief overview: fares, payment procedure, and differences from the Dubai system.
DARB toll roads
Gates are installed on the Sheikh Zayed, Sheikh Khalifa, and Al Maqta bridges, as well as on some sections of the highway. Passage is recorded by cameras; there is no need to stop. The rate is 4 dirhams during peak hours and 2 dirhams outside of them. The daily maximum is approximately 16 dirhams.
DARB for tourists from Dubai
There is no separate tourist tariff: the payment is linked to the license plate. The Salik and DARB systems operate independently — crossing the border into the Emirates does not create a debt or transfer the balance. You can top up your account in the DARB app or at service points.
Difference from Salik
Salik charges 4 dirhams for each gate passage per day and requires a prepaid balance. DARB is more flexible: the rate depends on the time of day, and there is a daily limit. The locations are also different: DARB — bridges and entrances in Abu Dhabi, Salik — city barriers in Dubai.
Who pays for the rental?
By default, the fees are charged to the renter. Rental companies deduct the amounts from the security card after the fact and add a fee of 20–50 dirhams per deduction. Check the contract to see whether road fees are included in the rate.
DARB vs. Salik comparison table
| Parameter | DARB (Abu Dhabi) | Salik (Dubai) |
| Bet | 4 dirhams during peak hours, 2 outside of them | 4 dirhams for passing |
| Daily limit | about 16 dirhams | no |
| Payment | DARB app, service points | prepaid balance |
| Points | bridges and city entrances | city gates |
Other useful blog articles:
Frequently Asked Questions
For non-residents:
International driving license
Local driving license of the country of origin
Passport
For UAE residents:
Passport
Emirates ID
Local driving license
RENT AND PAYMENT
Rent
Cars can be rented both on a daily basis and comprehensively, for a week, two weeks, a month, or more.
Payment
Payment can be made in cash, VISA, MasterCard, Russian cards or cryptocurrency.
Deposit will be refunded within 25 days.
Insurance
Delivery
Full coverage.
Free in Dubai.
DRIVER CONDITIONS
Docs
Driving experience
1+ years
Age
Passport and driver's license are required. International driver's licenses are also required for non-residents.
from 21+ years (depending on the car)
