The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has implemented a number of traffic penalties, including fines of up to $545 (AED 2,000) and car seizures for 60 days.
The Ministry of Interior has put these procedures in place to guarantee the public’s safety and well-being during wet weather. Fines under the new traffic regulations will be as follows:
- Gathering near valleys, flooded regions, and dams during wet weather results in a fine of AED 1,000 ($272), six black points, and the possibility of car impoundment for 60 days.
- Regardless of the hazard level, entering flooded valleys results in an AED 2,000 ($545) fine, 23 black points, and car impoundment for 60 days.
- Obstructing authorities from regulating traffic or obstructing emergency vehicles during emergencies, disasters, crises, and wet situations results in a fine of AED 1,000 ($545), four black points, and the possibility of car impoundment for 60 days.
Authorities have previously warned locals about the hazards of visiting hilly areas during rain. While it may be tempting to take advantage of the nice weather, previous occurrences have demonstrated how quickly flooding may swallow low-lying communities.
During inclement weather, authorities usually give warnings to the public to avoid valleys and dams. Residents and visitors alike are now prohibited from visiting flood-prone regions due to new rules and fines.