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Residents travelling across the capital during the Eid Al Adha break will get a welcome relief on the roads, after Abu Dhabi confirmed that most DARB toll gates will be free of charge throughout the holiday period.
The announcement is expected to ease movement for thousands of motorists visiting family, heading to gatherings, or travelling between different parts of the emirate during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The exemption applies to the majority of DARB toll gates across Abu Dhabi, allowing drivers to move around without the usual peak-hour charges that are typically enforced.
For many residents, especially families planning multiple trips during Eid, the suspension of toll fees could help reduce transport costs while also encouraging smoother movement between Abu Dhabi city, the suburbs, and surrounding areas.
However, authorities clarified that the exemption does not apply to the newly added toll gates at Al Qurm and Ghantout.
These two recently introduced locations will continue operating with normal charges during the holiday period, meaning motorists travelling through those areas should still expect toll deductions from their accounts.
The distinction is important for drivers heading towards Dubai or using routes connected to the newer toll network expansions, as some may assume all gates are temporarily free.
The decision to maintain charges at Al Qurm and Ghantout reflects Abu Dhabi’s broader traffic management strategy.
The newer toll points were introduced to help regulate vehicle flow on key corridors and reduce congestion on routes that have experienced increasing traffic volumes in recent years.
While the Eid exemption offers flexibility across most of the emirate, authorities appear keen to maintain control over traffic movement in strategically important areas where congestion is more likely during holiday travel.
For residents planning Eid outings, family visits, beach trips, or shopping excursions, the toll-free period across the majority of Abu Dhabi could make travel more convenient and economical.
Holiday periods in the UAE traditionally see a significant increase in vehicle movement, with many residents travelling frequently between homes, entertainment destinations, and cultural attractions.
Removing most toll fees during this period may also encourage people to spread out their travel plans across the emirate rather than avoiding peak movement times.
For further information, visit darb.qmobility.ae
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