Dubai toll-road operator Salik reported lower first-half revenue and profit on Wednesday as regional disruptions reduced traffic volumes, although the company said vehicle flows recovered toward the end of the second quarter and reaffirmed confidence in its long-term growth strategy.
Revenue for the six months ended June 30 fell 7.5 percent year on year to AED1.41 billion ($384.4 million), while net profit declined 8.7 percent to AED704.0 million ($191.7 million). EBITDA fell 8.4 percent to AED975.6 million ($265.7 million), with the margin easing to 69.1 percent from 69.7 percent a year earlier.
The company attributed the weaker performance to lower traffic following exceptional regional events that began in late February. Total trips through Salik’s toll gates declined 9.5 percent to 383.8 million, while chargeable trips fell 12.5 percent to 278.5 million. Toll usage fee revenue dropped 11.4 percent to AED1.20 billion ($327.5 million).
Chief Executive Ibrahim Sultan Al Haddad said traffic conditions improved during the second quarter, with June volumes returning to almost normal levels, while the company’s operating model continued to generate strong profitability and cash flows.
Salik continued expanding its digital mobility ecosystem during the period, strengthening partnerships with Dubai Airports, Valtrans, Shamal and Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority to broaden parking and mobility payment services beyond its toll-road business.
Chairman Mattar Al Tayer said the results reflected the resilience of Salik’s business model, supported by Dubai’s economic fundamentals, operational execution and disciplined financial management. The company said it remained well positioned to benefit from the emirate’s continued population growth, economic expansion and urban development.
