Dubai Drivers Adopt Cautious Rainy Weather Protocol

Learning from the Past: Cautious Drivers During Dubai's Rains

The recent rains in Dubai have created a new situation – but not because of the weather. Once again, showers and thunderstorms arrived in the city and throughout the UAE, but this time the reaction was entirely different from during the floods of April 2024. Back then, thousands of vehicles were submerged, social media was flooded with images of cars swimming in water, and rescue services were literally working without pause. Now, however, things are different: fewer emergency calls, greater caution, and it seems the residents of Dubai have learned the lesson.

Changing Behavior Among Drivers

During the recent rains, entrepreneurs operating ambulances and towing services were surprised to find that the phones were not ringing incessantly, as they did before. While last year, they had to tow dozens of vehicles daily, now most drivers are behaving more cautiously.

Many reported that drivers are avoiding flooded road sections, not daringly driving into deeper water, and if they do get stuck, they wait until the flood recedes before trying to restart their vehicle. This simple yet conscious step can save owners from serious engine damage.

What Happened in April 2024?

The rains at that time caught both the population and the infrastructure off guard. The rapidly accumulating rainfall flooded several major roads, filled underpasses, and in many places, the drainage systems could not keep up with the intensity of the rain. Many did not assess the risk and tried to drive through roads underwater – often causing fatal damage to their vehicle.

After the events of April, several campaigns were launched to raise traffic awareness. People encountered information in social media, on radio, and even in the waiting rooms of car service stations, which highlighted what not to do when roads are soaked with rain.

Fewer Emergency Calls Now – But Readiness Remains

Those working in the vehicle recovery field remain ready, but most are just waiting. According to one experienced staff member, this is a joyful development: "If we are bored, it means others haven't suffered accidents or serious technical problems." He added, "This time last year we would have had to operate at multiple times our capacity. Now, however, everything is calmer."

This change is due to several factors. On one hand, the population has learned from past situations. On the other hand, municipalities and authorities are reacting faster: closing off dangerous road sections, directing traffic, and sending out warnings via digital channels.

Similar Approach Needed in the Future

The rainy season in Dubai is not entirely unusual, especially in the winter months. Although such weather events are rare due to the desert climate, when they do occur, they can have a significant impact on urban transportation and daily life. Experiences show that people can adapt – and this is the most important.

Caution, prevention, and patience matter much more than any technical development. Because no matter how new drainage systems are built and modern warning systems installed, if those involved in traffic don't take the dangers seriously, the effort is wasted.

Individual Decisions That Save Millions

Many don't even think about how quickly a small oversight can become a serious problem. Repairing a water-logged engine, replacing a car's electrical system, lengthy dealings with the insurance company – all consequences that can be avoided with a little patience and foresight.

In the current situation, it's not only apparent that drivers have become more attentive, but also that social memory is working. The challenges of the previous year have become a collective experience and have been internalized into decisions. Even a simple "let's wait another ten minutes, maybe the water will subside" decision can be enough to keep someone from becoming a victim.

Summary: More Conscious City, More Conscious Drivers

The story of Dubai's rains is not just about the weather. It's also about how a city – and its residents – can learn. The quieter rescue operations, fewer emergency calls, and better preparedness experienced during the recent rains all indicate progress.

Drivers are more cautious, authorities are quicker, and the community is more cohesive. Thus, this rain brought not only water but also hope that life on Dubai's roads will become even safer in the future – whether the sun is shining or the rain is pouring.

(Source of the article: based on accounts from ambulance drivers.)