Step-by-Step Procedure
Follow these verified steps in chronological sequence to avoid common administrative delays or fines:
Step 1: Purchase the Salik Tag
Buy a tag in person for AED 100 at convenience stores in petrol stations (Enoc, Eppco, Emarat, Adnoc) or order online at salik.ae for AED 120 (including AED 20 home delivery fee). Both options include AED 50 initial toll credit.
Step 2: Mount Tag Correctly on Windshield
Clean the inside surface of your windshield behind the rearview mirror. Peel the backing and stick the transparent RFID tag horizontally, approximately 1 cm below the rearview mirror bracket. Never bend or tamper with the embedded microchip antenna.
Step 3: Activate Tag Online or via Phone
Open the Smart Salik app or visit salik.ae. Enter the 8-digit tag number and 4-digit activation key printed on the tag's packaging. Link your vehicle plate number and registered UAE mobile phone. Activation completes in minutes.
Required Credentials Checklist
Ensure you have the following documentation ready before initiating this service:
Official Fees Breakdown
The following figures reflect official government tariffs verified on official UAE portals:
| Component / Violation | Amount (AED) | Official Notes & Terms |
|---|---|---|
| Salik Tag Kit (In-Store Purchase) | AED 100.00 | AED 50 tag fee + AED 50 pre-loaded toll balance |
| Salik Tag Kit (Online with Delivery) | AED 120.00 | AED 100 kit + AED 20 courier delivery fee |
| Replacement Tag for Damaged Windshield | AED 50.00 | AED 50 fee for replacement sticker; existing balance carries over |
Expected Processing Timeline
In-store purchase: Immediate. Online delivery: 2 to 3 business days. Activation: Under 5 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Placing the tag behind heavy metallic tinting film — heavy metallic tint can obstruct RFID radio signals, resulting in unread toll tags.
- Attempting to peel and move an active tag to another car — Salik tags contain anti-tamper circuitry that self-destructs upon removal.
- Driving through a gate before activating the tag: you have 10 working days to activate before fines accumulate.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Salik tags are single-use RFID stickers that break upon peeling. When changing cars, buy a replacement tag for AED 50 and link it to your existing Salik account; your balance remains intact.
You have a grace period of 10 working days from the date you cross a Salik gate without a tag to purchase, mount, and activate a tag. If not activated within 10 days, an AED 100 fine is issued on day 11.
Mount the tag on the inside of the front windshield, centered horizontally roughly 1 cm below the rearview mirror mounting bracket on clear glass.
Official Sources & Verification References
Every procedure, tariff, and fine in this guide was directly verified against the following official government pages:
- Salik Tag Purchase & Activation Guide — checked on 2026-11-04
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