Driving in rain? 10 rules every motorist must follow in UAE
Authorities advise during unstable weather conditions
DUBAI – Driving conditions across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) shift dramatically during rainfall, with reduced visibility, slippery roads and sudden water accumulation creating hazards even for experienced motorists.
Authorities, including Dubai Police, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and the Ministry of Interior, have repeatedly issued advisories urging drivers to exercise heightened caution during unstable weather.
With forecasts warning of continued rain and fluctuating conditions, motorists are being reminded not only to drive carefully but also to strictly follow traffic regulations. Violations during such conditions can lead to hefty fines, black points and even vehicle impoundment.
Here are 10 essential rules every driver should follow while navigating UAE roads in the rain:
Maintain a safe distance
Keeping a safe distance between vehicles is one of the most critical safety measures during rain. Wet roads increase braking distance significantly, raising the risk of collisions.
Failure to maintain a safe gap can result in a Dh400 fine and four black points.
Reduce speed and follow temporary limits
Authorities often lower speed limits during heavy rain through electronic signage. These temporary limits override standard speed regulations and must be followed at all times.
- Exceeding the limit by 20 km/h: Dh300 fine
- Exceeding by more than 80 km/h: Dh3,000 fine, 23 black points, 60-day impoundment
Avoid sudden braking and sharp turns
Sudden braking or swerving on wet roads can lead to skidding. Drivers are advised to slow down gradually and approach bends with extreme caution to maintain control of the vehicle.
Ensure your vehicle is road-ready
Authorities stress the importance of checking tyres, windshield wipers and lights before driving in the rain. Poor tyre grip or faulty wipers can significantly increase accident risks in low-visibility conditions.
Do not use your phone while driving
Using a mobile phone while driving becomes even more dangerous during adverse weather. According to RTA findings, texting while driving increases accident risk by up to 32 per cent, while reaction time can drop by 50 percent.
- Penalty: Dh800 fine and four black points
Use indicators and follow lane discipline
Changing lanes without signalling is particularly hazardous in rainy conditions where visibility is already reduced. Sudden lane changes can lead to collisions.
- Penalty: Dh400 fine
- For heavy vehicles: Dh1,500 fine and 12 black points
Avoid reckless or dangerous driving
Reckless driving, including sudden swerving or ignoring traffic signals, carries severe penalties due to the heightened risk during rain.
- Penalty: Dh2,000 fine, 23 black points, and 60-day vehicle impoundment
- Dangerous swerving alone: Dh1,000 fine and four black points
Do not use hazard lights while driving
Hazard lights should only be used when a vehicle is stationary or broken down. Using them while driving can confuse other motorists, making it difficult to interpret braking or lane changes.
- Penalty: Dh500 fine and four black points
Stay away from flood-prone areas and wadis
The Ministry of Interior has warned against approaching valleys, dams and flood channels during rainfall. These areas can become extremely dangerous due to sudden water flow.
- Gathering near such areas: Dh1,000 fine and six traffic points
- Entering flowing wadis: Dh2,000 fine, 23 traffic points, 60-day impoundment
Do not obstruct emergency services
During adverse weather, emergency responders require clear access to affected areas. Blocking police, ambulance or rescue teams is a serious offence.
- Penalty: Dh1,000 fine, four black points, and 60-day vehicle impoundment