Abu dhabi: Salik Company PJSC, the exclusive operator of Dubai's road toll gates, announced the renewal of its five-year contract with TransCore, a leading US-based tolling company. This renewal strengthens their strategic partnership, supporting the continuous efficiency and technological advancements of Dubai's tolling system.
According to Emirates News Agency, the renewal was witnessed by Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Salik, and signed by Ibrahim Al Haddad, CEO of Salik, and Whitt Hall, CEO of TransCore, with several officials from both organizations present. This contract builds on the longstanding collaboration between Salik and TransCore, focusing on developing systems and technologies that enhance the tolling operations using advanced technical expertise. The partnership aims to improve system efficiency, reliability, and future readiness.
The renewed partnership will explore the deployment of artificial intelligence and advanced digital solutions to enhance operational efficiency, improve system performance, and support Dubai's smart mobility ecosystem's future requirements. It also aims to strengthen Salik's role as an integrated payment platform by expanding its application across various mobility services, including parking payments, providing customers with a seamless experience.
Ibrahim Al Haddad emphasized the importance of this renewal, stating it marks a significant step in the ongoing development of Dubai's tolling system with high standards of efficiency and operational excellence. Over the next five years, Salik plans to leverage artificial intelligence and digital solutions to enhance operations, expand mobility services, and support Dubai's vision of an integrated and sustainable mobility ecosystem.
Whitt Hall expressed TransCore's commitment to supporting Salik's ambitions, highlighting the shared commitment to advancing Dubai's tolling system. He reiterated TransCore's dedication to delivering solutions that meet high efficiency, quality, and reliability standards, contributing to Dubai's vision of a smart and sustainable mobility ecosystem.
The financial impact of the renewed contract is expected to remain similar to the previous one, with annual operating expenses ranging between 5% and 5.5% of total annual revenues. Despite this, the renewed contract introduces significant enhancements to contractual, operational, and regulatory frameworks, including strengthened sustainability, governance, cybersecurity, maintenance, and business continuity requirements. Provision has been made for system upgrades to cover existing services and future initiatives.
The collaboration between Salik and TransCore dates back to 2006, when TransCore played a pivotal role in designing and developing Dubai's original tolling system. Over the years, the partnership evolved in line with technological requirements and system developments.
The contract renewal reflects Salik's commitment to investing in technology and innovation while strengthening strategic partnerships to support its business growth and mobility service expansion. This approach aligns with Dubai's growth and evolving mobility needs, reinforcing Salik's role within the emirate's smart mobility ecosystem.