Salik renews TransCore partnership for five years to advance tolling technology

Dubai: Salik Company PJSC, the exclusive operator of Dubai's road toll gates, has announced the renewal of its five-year contract with TransCore, a leading US-based tolling company, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two parties and supporting the continued efficiency and technological development of Dubai's tolling system. Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Salik, witnessed the signing of the renewed partnership agreement by Ibrahim Al Haddad, Chief Executive Officer of Salik, and Whitt Hall, Chief Executive Officer of TransCore, in the presence of officials from both organisations. The renewed contract builds on the long-standing collaboration between Salik and TransCore and includes the continued development of systems and technologies supporting tolling operations, leveraging advanced technical expertise and solutions to enhance efficiency, reliability and future readiness. The partnership will also explore opportunities to deploy artificial intelligence technologies and advanced digital solutions to improve operational efficiency, enhance system performance and support the tolling system's ability to meet the future requirements of Dubai's smart mobility ecosystem. The collaboration supports the efficiency of Salik's portfolio and the development of its technological capabilities, further strengthening its role as an integrated payment platform and expanding its application across various mobility services, including parking payments and other existing and future services. Ibrahim Al Haddad, Chief Executive Officer of Salik, said the renewal builds on a long-standing relationship founded on technical expertise, innovation and collaboration. "Over the next five years, we look forward to leveraging artificial intelligence, advanced technologies and digital solutions to further enhance the future readiness and performance of our operations, while strengthening Salik's portfolio and expanding its application across a broader range of mobility services," he said. Whitt Hall, Chief Executive Officer of TransCore, said the renewal reflects the shared commitment of both organisations to build on years of collaboration and achievements. He added that TransCore remains committed to supporting Salik's ambitions through technology and expertise that align with the highest standards of efficiency, quality and reliability. According to Salik, there has been no material change in the expected financial impact of the renewed contract compared with the previous agreement. The company expects to maintain annual operating expenses at between 5 per cent and 5.5 per cent of total annual revenues. The renewed contract includes enhancements to contractual, operational and regulatory frameworks, including strengthened requirements related to sustainability, governance, cybersecurity, maintenance and business continuity. It also provides for future system upgrades to support existing services and potential future initiatives. Salik and TransCore have worked together since 2006, when TransCore contributed to the design and development of Dubai's original tolling system. The scope of cooperation has since expanded in line with the system's operational and technological development. The company said the contract renewal reflects its commitment to investing in technology, artificial intelligence and innovation while strengthening strategic partnerships that support the growth of its core business, the expansion of mobility services and the continued advancement of Dubai's smart mobility ecosystem.