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Dubai: Unstable weather conditions, including rain, strong winds, and reduced visibility, are expected across the UAE through Friday, according to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).
Authorities have issued safety advisories urging residents and motorists to remain cautious, especially as road conditions worsen during rainfall.
With the increased risk of accidents, officials have also highlighted strict traffic penalties for unsafe driving behaviors—particularly near flood-prone areas and emergency zones.
🚨 Why This Matters
Rain in the UAE often leads to:
- Slippery roads and sudden water accumulation
- Reduced visibility due to fog and heavy showers
- Increased accident risks from distracted or reckless driving
Authorities stress that even minor negligence can lead to major consequences—both in terms of safety and fines.
🚗 Traffic Fines to Avoid During Rain in UAE
1. Using Mobile Phones While Driving
- Fine: AED 800
- Penalty: 4 black points
Taking photos or videos while driving is strictly prohibited.
⚠️ Capturing accident scenes or victims carries severe penalties, including:
- Up to 6 months imprisonment
- Fines between AED 150,000 and AED 500,000
Authorities also warn that distracted driving—such as eating or using phones—remains a leading cause of accidents in the UAE.
2. Obstructing Emergency Services
- Fine: AED 1,000
- Penalty: 4 black points + 60-day vehicle impoundment
Blocking ambulances, police, or rescue teams during rain or flooding is considered a serious offense.
3. Ignoring Adjusted Speed Limits
During bad weather, speed limits may be reduced and displayed on:
- Variable Message Signs (VMS)
- Official police alerts
Examples of fines:
- 20 km/h over limit: AED 300
- 80+ km/h over limit: AED 3,000 + 23 black points + 60-day impoundment
4. Driving with Hazard Lights On
- Fine: AED 500
- Penalty: 4 black points
Using hazard lights while driving can confuse other drivers.
✔️ Use them only when stationary or during breakdowns.
5. Changing Lanes Without Indicator
- Fine: AED 400
This becomes even more dangerous during rain due to low visibility and slippery roads.
6. Entering Flooded Areas or Valleys
- Fine: AED 2,000
- Penalty: 23 black points + 60-day vehicle confiscation
Driving through water-logged areas is extremely risky due to:
- Strong water currents
- Hidden road damage
- Poor visibility
This rule is enforced under Ministerial Resolution No. 227 of 2023.
7. Gathering Near Flooded Zones
- Fine: AED 1,000
- Penalty: 6 black points
Stopping near valleys, dams, or flooded areas—even for photos—is prohibited and dangerous.
⚠️ Safety Tips for Driving in UAE Rain
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- Reduce speed and maintain safe distance
- Use headlights (not hazard lights while moving)
- Avoid flooded roads and underpasses
- Follow official alerts and road signs
- Pull over safely if visibility becomes too poor
📢 Stay Updated
Motorists are advised to follow updates from:
- National Centre of Meteorology (NCM)
- Ministry of Interior (MOI)
- Local police authorities
- National Emergency Crisis and Disaster Management Authority (NCEMA)
Final Word
Rain in the UAE may be rare—but when it arrives, it demands extra caution and responsible driving.
Avoid fines, stay alert, and most importantly—prioritize safety over convenience.
