UAE rain might look pretty on camera, but it could hit your wallet hard
When the rain hits the UAE, roads get slick and visibility drops — making safe driving more crucial than ever. Police nationwide are urging drivers to stay extra cautious as the wet weather sticks around. Remember, breaking traffic rules in these conditions can land you hefty fines and black points.
Here’s what to keep in mind before getting behind the wheel this rainy week:
Don’t drive into flooded areas
Penalty alert: Up to Dhs2,000 fine, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment.
Flooded wadis and valleys might look shallow, but don’t be fooled — even a shallow, fast-moving stream can sweep your car off course in seconds. Police warn that anyone ignoring road closures or warning signs to cross flooded areas risks serious penalties. The safest move? Wait it out until the roads are officially declared safe.
Avoid gathering near dams or valleys
Penalty: Up to Dhs1,000 fine and six black points.
Hanging out near flooded wadis, desert valleys, or dams to snap pics or videos might seem harmless, but it’s actually risky and against the law. Heavy rain can quickly turn these spots dangerous. New traffic rules make it illegal to gather near flooded areas during unstable weather. The smartest move? Keep your distance and enjoy the rain safely from afar.
Keep your phone away
Penalty: Up to Dhs800 fine and four black points.
Whether you’re checking directions or trying to capture that rare rainy-day shot, using your phone while driving is a no-go. Authorities warn that distractions like texting or scrolling socials are top causes of accidents. And recording accident scenes? That’s way more serious — with penalties up to six months in jail or fines hitting Dhs500,000. Stay safe: keep your eyes on the road and your phone out of reach.
Follow the temporary speed limits
When it rains, police often drop speed limits to keep everyone safe. These temporary limits show up on digital road signs and override the usual ones.
Speeding fines stack up based on how fast you’re going over the limit:
- 20 km/h over: Up to Dhs300 fine
- 80 km/h or more over: Up to Dhs3,000 fine, 23 black points, and a 60-day vehicle impoundment
If you see flashing lower speed limits, slow down ASAP — it could save you from a crash or a hefty fine.
Never block emergency vehicles
Penalty: Up to Dhs1,000 fine, four black points, and 60-day vehicle impoundment.
During heavy rain, rescue and emergency teams are working nonstop to help stranded drivers and control flooded areas. Blocking their path — even for a second — can put lives in danger. Always pull over to give way to emergency vehicles, and only stop on the hard shoulder if your car breaks down.
Don’t use hazard lights while moving
Penalty: Up to Dhs500 fine and four black points.
A lot of drivers turn on hazard lights in heavy rain, but that can actually cause confusion. When all four indicators flash, other drivers can’t tell if you’re turning or switching lanes. Police say hazard lights should only be used if your car is fully stopped or broken down. If visibility is low, just slow down or pull over safely instead.
Always use your indicators
Penalty: Up to Dhs400 fine.
Switching lanes without signaling is risky anytime, but it’s extra dangerous when it’s raining and visibility drops. Not giving a heads-up leaves other drivers guessing and raises the chance of a crash. Always signal early and double-check your mirrors before making a move.
