Authorities have advised drivers to exercise utmost caution and lower their speeds.
Dubai: Rain, strong winds, and unstable weather are expected across the UAE through Friday, the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM) said, prompting authorities to urge residents and drivers to exercise caution.
With changing road conditions and reduced visibility, officials have warned of strict penalties for unsafe behaviour, especially near flood-prone areas and emergency response zones. Motorists should also be aware of specific traffic fines to stay compliant and drive safely.
1. Using your mobile phone to take photos
- Fine: Dh800 and four black points
- Authorities strictly prohibit using phones while driving, including taking or publishing photos. Capturing images of accidents or victims carries harsher penalties, with possible six-month jail terms or fines ranging from Dh150,000 to Dh500,000, or both.
In 2024, Abu Dhabi Police identified eating while driving as one of the most hazardous habits, alongside mobile phone use, which continues to be the leading cause of distracted driving incidents. Even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to swerving, delayed reactions, or missed signals, putting all road users at risk.
2. Obstructing authorities during emergencies
- Fine: Dh1,000, four black points, 60-day vehicle impoundment
- Blocking traffic, ambulances, or rescue operations during emergencies, disasters, rain, or floods is a serious offence.
3. Not abiding by changed speed limits
- Police advise drivers to reduce speed during rainfall, often communicated through official social media channels and Variable Message Signs (VMS).
- VMS alerts take priority over standard posted limits and provide information on accidents, congestion, construction, or adverse weather.
- Exceeding the adjusted speed limits can lead to fines.
3. Speeding over adjusted limits
- Driving 20 km/h over the limit: Dh300 fine
- Driving over 80 km/h above the limit: Dh3,000 fine, 23 black points, 60-day vehicle impoundment
4. Driving with hazard lights on
- Fine: Dh500, four black points
- Using hazard lights while moving is unsafe in low visibility, as all four indicators activate, preventing proper signaling for lane changes. Hazard lights should only be used when stationary or during a breakdown. In extremely poor visibility, pull over safely until conditions improve.
5. Changing lanes without an indicator
- Fine: Dh400
- Failing to signal lane changes in wet or low-visibility conditions is highly dangerous. Police regularly conduct awareness campaigns to promote safer driving practices across the UAE.
6. Entering flooded valleys or waterlogged areas
- Fine: Dh2,000
- Penalty: 23 black points and 60-day vehicle impoundment
Authorities urge motorists to avoid valleys, flood-prone zones, and areas with accumulated water during heavy rainfall. Poor visibility, strong downdrafts, and fast-moving water greatly increase the risk of serious accidents.
Under Ministerial Resolution No. 227 of 2023, entering a valley while water is flowing carries a Dh2,000 fine, 23 black points, and 60-day vehicle impoundment.
Drivers are also warned to stay away from open or elevated areas during lightning and thunderstorms. Ignoring these safety instructions in rainy conditions can lead to severe accidents and hefty penalties.
7. Gathering near valleys, dams, or flooded areas
- Fine: Dh1,000
- Penalty: 6 black points
Stopping or lingering near valleys, dams, or flooded areas during rainfall—including for photos or to observe water flow—is considered an offence and poses a serious safety risk.
Important note: Motorists are advised to stay updated on traffic and weather alerts issued by local police, the Ministry of Interior (MOI), the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), and the National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA).
