Dubai Residents Face Rising Commuting Costs Amid Higher Tolls, Parking Fees, and Traffic Congestion

Dubai people are feeling the financial strain because the cost of every day commuting keeps to upward due to expanded Salik toll prices, higher parking charges, and worsening traffic congestion. Many those who depend upon personal transportation for work are noticing a good sized growth of their monthly costs compared to preceding years.

The Rising Cost of Commuting

For Najeeb ul Huq, a sales executive at an coverage brokerage, the financial effect of commuting has turn out to be greater burdensome over the past year. He said that his commuting prices have risen by nearly Dh800 per month in comparison to February 2023. Previously, he refueled his automobile with Dh150 definitely really worth of petrol every six days; but, due to progressed excursion wishes and disturbing traffic, he now wishes to top off every four days.

After reviewing his financials, Najeeb observed that his monthly gas charges have multiplied from Dh700-Dh900 to Dh1,300. The number one contributors to this surge encompass increased journey distances for work, more Salik fees, and worsening traffic congestion, primary to extra fuel intake.

Fuel Prices Remain Stable, however Traffic Causes Higher Consumption

Interestingly, the rising fuel expenses are not without delay related to fuel rate hikes. In fact, gasoline costs have slightly decreased during the last year:

• Super 98 petrol: Dh3.05 per liter (Feb 2023) → Dh2.73 per liter (March 2025)
• Special 95 petrol: Dh2.93 per liter (Feb 2023) → Dh2.61 per liter (March 2025)

While fuel prices stay particularly stable, mechanics factor out that adjustments in driving patterns and improved congestion are contributing to better fuel intake.

Usman Jafari, a technician at Al Fawzan Auto Maintenance, explained, “Idling in traffic consumes extra fuel than riding at a constant pace. With congestion increasing, people spend longer durations in visitors, which increases gasoline usage. Additionally, frequent braking and accelerating pressure the engine to work tougher, growing gas intake.”

Jafari additionally cited that running the aircon at the same time as idling adds to the trouble, further increasing gas utilization and overall prices.

Impact of Salik Toll Rate Changes

Another essential element contributing to higher commuting prices is the variable Salik toll fees and an growth in the number of Salik gates throughout Dubai.

Mohammed AbuNail, a Jordanian expat and advertising government, has seen his month-to-month Salik expenses nearly double. Previously, he paid around Dh250 to Dh300 according to month, however now he spends over Dh550 according to month because of elevated tolls and higher peak-hour prices.

Similarly, Anthony Kannupallalil, an event organizer, referred to that his daily Salik prices increased from Dh8 to as plenty as Dh24, adding an extra Dh240 consistent with month to his commuting finances. Since toll charges differ based on time of journey, many commuters are left with restricted options, as keeping off Salik routes regularly outcomes in longer tour times because of congestion.

Increased Parking Fees Add to the Burden

In addition to gasoline and toll fees, Dubai residents also are getting ready for better parking fees. The upcoming changes in top-hour parking expenses are expected to further stress family budgets.

Najeeb expressed worries that his parking expenses will growth as most of his client visits occur during of peak hours. With the imminent pricing adjustments, commuters might also have to allocate a good higher price rate for parking prices.

Vehicle Insurance Costs on the Rise

Another unexpected burden for commuters is the growing fee of car insurance.

MK, a media industry professional, mentioned that his annual automobile coverage top rate doubled from Dh700-Dh800 to Dh1,400 in only one year. Combined with growing congestion and gasoline intake, he is now spending notably greater on maintaining his automobile.

Longer Commutes, Increased Stress

For many people, the increased travel costs are not just a financial burden however also a supply of daily stress. MK shared that his trip from Media City to home has emerge as substantially longer during the last year. Previously, his evening shuttle took about an hour, however now it exceeds one hour and forty minutes due to worsening traffic congestion. The increased travel time means he’s spending more money on gasoline while additionally sacrificing valuable personal time.

Final Thoughts

With daily commuting expenses rising because of higher Salik tolls, improved gasoline intake, better parking prices, and highly-priced coverage charges, Dubai residents are finding it extra tough to manage their monthly budgets. The worsening traffic congestion exacerbates the issue, making daily journey no longer simplest dearer however additionally extra time-ingesting.