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UAE Laws During Rain and Fines for Violators

Did you know that the UAE has strict traffic rules that particularly apply during weather emergencies and heavy rain? In May this year, the UAE’s Ministry of Interior announced new traffic laws as a specific response to adverse weather, with up to Dh2,000 in fines for violators. But other traffic laws are already in place to ensure the safety of all road users. Here's what you need to know:

Do not enter flooded valleys

It is illegal for motorists to enter flooded valleys, regardless of the level of danger. The fine for violating this rule is Dh2,000, plus a 60-day vehicle impoundment and 23 black points in the driver’s traffic record.

Don’t gather near valleys and dams during rainfall

Under the UAE law, it is prohibited for motorists to gather near valleys and dams when it is raining. Violators will be fined Dh1,000 and given six black points in their traffic file.

Don’t obstruct rescue efforts, traffic operations

Motorists must not obstruct authorities from performing their duties related to traffic management, ambulance services, and rescue operations during emergencies, disasters, heavy rainfall, and valley flowing with rainwater. The fine for violators is Dh1,000, plus a 60-day impoundment of vehicles and four black points in the driver’s traffic record.

Don't use hazard lights incorrectly

Police have been campaigning against the use of hazard lights when driving through fog or rain, saying this wrong practice can confuse other motorists who have no way of knowing which direction a driver will turn or whether there is an obstruction ahead. According to police, hazard lights must only be used when a vehicle is at full stop, or to alert motorists of an accident or danger ahead. Violators will be fined Dh500 and given four black points on their traffic file.

Don’t be a danger to yourself or others

Motorists must abide by all traffic regulations and stay in their designated lanes and avoid endangering their life or others. They must also follow the guidance of police, traffic, civil defense, emergency, disaster, and crisis management personnel in emergency situations. The law also extends to pedestrians, who are urged to only cross at designated areas and “exercise utmost care and caution”, particularly during rainy weather.

Commute can be counted as part of office hours

Under the UAE Labour Law, the time spent commuting to work during rain or adverse weather can be counted as part of office hours under three situations. According to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation, situations where an employee’s commute can be counted as office hours include traveling to work during bad weather, such as rain, sandstorm and flood; and responses to any warnings issued by the National Center of Meteorology regarding weather changes and conditions. Commute to work will also be considered part of work hours if the employee is in a company-provided transport while caught in a traffic accident or emergency. Finally, if the employee’s contract stipulates that the travel time is included in the work hours, then the same rule also applies. ICA/Expat Media
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