UAE Enforces Road Safety During Rains

Strict Penalties for Dangerous Rainy Driving in UAE: Essential Information for Drivers

In the United Arab Emirates, weather can often take extreme turns, especially during the winter months when rain and fog pose serious challenges for motorists. In recent days, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have experienced significant rainfall, prompting authorities to issue strict warnings, clearly indicating that road safety is a primary concern. Those who do not comply with the regulations can expect hefty fines, penalty points, and vehicle impoundment.

Weather Hazards and Stricter Traffic Regulations

The Ministry of Interior enforces penalties on offenders who endanger lives during rains or floods, based on Ministerial Resolution No. 178 of 2017. The objective is clear: to reduce accidents, save lives, and maintain order during unstable weather conditions.

One of the most severe violations is driving into water streams, even if the situation does not seem risky. This behavior incurs a fine of 2,000 dirhams, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment. Similarly, severe penalties are imposed on those who obstruct the work of rescue units, police, or traffic controllers. In such cases, a 1,000 dirhams fine, 4 black points, and 60-day vehicle impoundment may be imposed.

Additional Violations and Fines in Rainy Weather

Authorities have clearly outlined behaviors unacceptable during rainy and foggy periods. Use of social media is also scrutinized: videotaping or photographing rain or fog while driving can lead to an 800 dirhams fine and 4 black points.

Dangerous driving, such as ignoring speed limits, sudden maneuvers, or neglecting road conditions, results in the steepest penalties: a 2,000 dirhams fine, 23 black points, and 60-day vehicle impoundment.

Other frequent, yet seriously penalized violations include:

Using hazard lights while driving: 500 dirhams, 4 black points

Driving without lights in fog: 500 dirhams, 4 black points

Driving in fog despite official prohibitions: 500 dirhams, 4 black points

Disregarding police instructions: 400 dirhams, 4 black points

Evading police checks: 800 dirhams, 12 black points

These measures protect not only drivers but also pedestrians, cyclists, and emergency service members who often work under challenging conditions in the rain.

How to Avoid Fines – and Accidents

Authorities emphasize that the goal during rainy weather is not only to avoid fines but to ensure actual safety. Some basic precautions worth adopting before hitting the road include:

1. Checking tires: Worn-out or under-inflated tires can easily skid or hydroplane on slippery surfaces. Check tread depth and tire pressure before setting off.

2. Windshield wiper condition: Visibility can dramatically decrease in rain, making functional wipers essential. Replace them immediately if they streak, squeak, or inadequately clear water.

3. Reducing speed, especially when passing through puddles: Driving fast over standing water or large puddles can cause engine damage or loss of vehicle control.

4. Using low beam headlights even during the day: This helps not only with your visibility but also makes you more visible to others under a darkening sky or in fog.

5. Maintaining a safe following distance: On wet roads, stopping distances increase, so maintain at least twice the distance from the vehicle in front as you would in dry conditions.

6. Adhering to speed limits, paying attention to variable signs: Highways often have LED boards indicating temporary restrictions. Compliance is mandatory.

7. Avoiding distractions: Focus on the road instead of making phone calls, typing on the GPS, or filming.

8. Avoid driving into valleys or flood-prone areas: Water can rise quickly, even if initially it seems harmless. Being present in such a situation can constitute a violation.

Special Attention to Social Media Use

Authorities have specifically warned that many people film or photograph during rain or floods and then share these on social media. While tempting, this is not only dangerous but also prohibited when driving. Safety is more important than content creation – a fine is guaranteed if caught doing so.

The Future of Traffic in Light of Weather Conditions

The UAE sets an example in traffic safety by actively responding to weather challenges. Technological advancements – such as intelligent boards, emergency apps, and real-time traffic updates – support drivers in making safe decisions. However, these are just tools. The true responsibility still lies with the motorists.

Everyone is encouraged to be conscious, disciplined, and keep in mind that weather is no game, and following rules can save lives. A poor decision in the rain can bring not only fines but also tragedy. Dubai and the entire UAE protect their community through road safety – let’s all be part of it.

(The article is based on a Dubai Police statement.)