Now in the holy month of Ramadan, the RTA (road and transport authority) has initiated a road safety campaign that will encourage people to be more careful while on the roads. It is a reminder to be extra careful when driving during fasting. Here is what you need to know about this as well as other aspects about driving in the UAE - memes that you may identify with.
The month of Ramadan is a time when sleep and eating patterns change. There is likely to be drowsiness, lack of concentration or tiredness while driving. Apart from sending SMS messages to drivers about being careful, certain reprimands have also been laid down for reckless driving and endangerment of other road users.
There will be a Dh2,000 fine, awarding of 23 black points, and confiscation of the vehicle for 60 days. In the event some of these tips can help drivers prevent accidents and fines/ vehicle impoundment.
Since in the UAE you drive on the right side of the road, it is illegal to overtake from the right. One can only overtake from the left. Speeding and driving below the speed limit are both punishable. Speed monitoring radars keep a close eye on things. Littering attracts a fine of AED1,000 and 6 black points. If 24 black points are accumulated in one year, there is a 12 month license revocation.
Driving under the influence of alcohol is something that attracts jail time plus AED 20,000 fine, 23 black points and a 60 day impounding of the vehicle. Overtaking on a hard shoulder, tailgating, causing serious injuries will also land one in jail.
Winter in Game of Thrones has nothing on summer in Dubai! Jon Snow would be like Jon Volcano!
Right now it is hot enough that if you get into a car parked in the sun, you will probably get first degree burns and need oven mitts just to hold the steering wheel (not fullly kidding!). It is also true that driving can be frustrating. Keep calm and drive on, however.
Though compared with countries such as India, the traffic in UAE is very orderly, logjams can and do happen. If there is a crash the traffic may backup on either side. If caught in a jam, remember, this too shall pass!
Missing the right exit on an expressway can mean a very long extra drive. So be careful about the exit you need to take and exit in the right way, particularly if you're on a tight schedule.
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