Motorists in Dubai have witnessed a notable increase in Salik toll gate usage on both Al Maktoum Bridge and Al Garhoud Bridge. This surge is directly linked to the closure of the Floating Bridge, prompting toll gate operator Salik Co to analyze the impact on traffic patterns.
Diversion of Traffic and Revenue Growth
During October-December 2023, Al Maktoum Bridge experienced a substantial 53.6% surge in revenue-generating trips, excluding paid taxi trips. The closure of the Floating Bridge led to a significant redirection of traffic, particularly from Sharjah, Ajman, and adjacent areas. Similarly, Al Garhoud Bridge recorded a 12.2% increase in revenue-generating trips in Q4 2023 compared to the previous year.
RTA’s Integrated Plan for Traffic Management
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced the closure of the Floating Bridge on April 14, 2023, for major maintenance works. This closure, initially planned for five weeks, resulted in the rerouting of traffic through alternative roads and crossings, including Al Maktoum Bridge, Infinity Bridge, and Al Garhoud Bridge.
System-Wide Impact on Salik Revenue
Despite the closure of the Floating Bridge, Salik reported a robust 7.9% year-on-year increase in revenue-generating trips in the fourth quarter. Notably, various toll gates witnessed substantial growth, with Jebel Ali (16%) and Airport Tunnel (13%) leading the way. Other gates, such as Al Mamzar North (9%), Al Barsha (7%), and Al Safa (7%), also showed high-single-digit growth.
Increasing Vehicle Registration and Record-Breaking Revenue
The total number of registered vehicles saw a remarkable 9% increase, reaching 4 million. Salik achieved an 11.7% year-on-year growth in revenue-generating trips in 2023, setting a new record of 461.4 million.
Expanding Toll Network
Operating eight toll gates at present, Salik has plans to launch two additional gates later this year. The closure of the Floating Bridge and the subsequent shifts in traffic have played a significant role in shaping the trends within Dubai’s toll collection system.
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