As the UAE enters the peak of its summer season and temperatures start to push the 50°C mark, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is stepping up to remind drivers to keep safety a top priority. With the heat bringing added risks on the road, a few simple checks could make a huge difference. So, if you’re planning to hit the road this summer, here’s what you need to know to stay safe out there.
Also read: 9 UAE Government Services You Can Contact 24/7 Via WhatsApp In Dubai!
Summer Without Accidents Campaign Is Back
Every year, RTA joins hands with the Ministry of Interior and Dubai Police to roll out their annual safety awareness drive – ‘Summer Without Accidents’. This campaign is all about helping drivers avoid preventable breakdowns and road incidents that tend to spike during the hotter months. Ahmed Al Khzaimy, Director of Traffic at RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, stressed the importance of routine checks before hitting the road. He encourages all drivers to give their vehicle a once-over before driving. He put emphasis on driver to check their tyre pressure, oil and coolant levels, and checking for any fluid leaks under the car. This is especially important for cars that do not have UAE specs, International model cars are not designed to withstand the high intensity of desert summers.
UAE’s Five-Year Rule For Tyres
One of the biggest dangers in summer is worn-out tyres. Because tyres are the only point of contact between your car and the road, their condition is absolutely critical. With road surfaces heating up, old or damaged tyres are more likely to burst. And not only is that bad for you and your car, it can also lead to serious, even fatal accidents.
On top of that, if you didn’t already know, tyres that are more than five years past their manufacturing date are officially banned on UAE roads! So, if you feel like it’s been a while since you’ve checked, rotated or even changed out your types – consider this your sign to do all of the above. It’s a well known fact that the most about of tyre debris you’ll see on roads/highways is during the hot summer months, all due to poorly maintained commercial vehicle tyres.
Never Leave Kids Alone In Cars
One of the most important warnings as part of this RTA campaign is about children being left behind in cars. Yes, even if you think it’s just going to be for a ‘short time’. It’s a heartbreaking and dangerous mistake that can turn deadly within minutes. And you might be thinking that keeping the air conditioning running will make the whole situation fine, but even that’s not enough to keep a sealed up car safe.
This can also be applied to pets of all kinds. While, Dubai may not allow you to bring your pets inside to most places, if you know they aren’t allowed where you are going – don’t let your pets tag along in the car. If you feel as though your quick errand is short enough to leave your kid (or pet) in the car alone for, that means they can also definitely stay home, safe with adult supervision as well.
RTA’s Must-Follow Tips for Summer Driving
When the sun is blazing and the roads are sizzling, a RTA suggests that these few small checks can go a long way in making sure your summer drives are safe and stress-free. Here’s a more in-depth look at the important things every driver in the UAE should be doing before hitting the road during these peak summer months:
1. Cool Your Car Properly
riving in 45-50°C heat without a working air conditioner is uncomfortable, and not to mention very dangerous. A malfunctioning AC can lead to heat exhaustion and poor concentration, especially on longer drives. Make sure the system is blowing cold air efficiently and that there are no unusual sounds or smells coming from the vents. It’s also a good idea to get the AC gas levels checked and replace the cabin air filter if it hasn’t been changed in a while.
2. Check Your Fluids
Just like you, your engine needs to be hydrated too. Because during summer heat, your engine works much harder to stay cool, so fluids play a huge role in keeping your car from overheating or breaking down. Start by checking the engine oil. It should be at the right level and not look dark or dirty. Then check the radiator coolant, this is the part that keeps your engine from overheating, especially in stop-and-go traffic. It’s smart to get a full fluid check at a service centre if it’s been a while since your last maintenance. Don’t forget the windshield washer fluid too, because Dubai is not stranger to getting dust everywhere. And I everywhere.
3. Tyre Pressure Matters
Overinflated or underinflated tyres can both be risky, especially at high speeds. The extreme heat causes the air inside the tyres to expand, increasing the chance of a blowout if they’re not properly maintained. Check tyre pressure when the car is cool (preferably early morning) and make sure they’re at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Also, important to inspect the tread. That means to check if your tyres are looking bald or cracked, it’s time for a replacement. Remember, tyres over 5 years old aren’t allowed on UAE roads!
4. Brake Maintenance
Brakes can wear out faster in summer due to increased usage, especially if you’re doing a lot of inter-city driving. If you hear squeaking, grinding, or feel vibration when you brake, don’t ignore it! That’s your car warning you that something’s off. Get the brake pads, discs, and brake fluid checked by a mechanic regularly. Well-maintained brakes are your first line of defence against accidents, especially in unpredictable traffic situations. Ignoring texts from your ex is totally fine, but when your car is calling – it’s best not to ignore.
5. Keep It Clean From The Inside & Out
Sure, a clean car looks great, but it’s also about function. When your windscreen and windows are clean, your visibility improves. Especially important during early mornings when glare from the sun can be intense. Dirty headlights can also reduce your visibility at night by up to 50%, so wipe them down regularly. Plus, when your car is tidy inside, it’s easier to notice any unusual things. Such as smells, leaks, or other signs that something might be wrong. Bonus: Keeping your dashboard dust-free can even extend the life of your AC vents and electronics.
6. Avoid Parking In Direct Sunlight
We all know how it feels to return to a parked car that’s been baking in the sun. Just like stepping into an oven. But the heat can actually cause long-term damage to your vehicle, too. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can wear out the paint, overheat the battery, and damage the interior materials like leather or plastic. Whenever possible, park in the shade, use a reflective sunshade, and crack the windows slightly to allow air circulation. And if you can, opt for covered parking. Seriously, your car would thank you if it could speak.
Bonus Tip: Keep an Emergency Kit Handy
It’s always smart to keep a basic emergency kit in your car, especially during the hotter months. Stock it with water bottles, a phone charger, flashlight, tyre repair kit, jumper cables, and a first aid kit. You never know when it’ll come in handy, and being prepared makes a huge difference in unexpected situations.
A Little Prep Goes A Long Way
While summer in the UAE is no joke, staying safe on the roads doesn’t have to be complicated. By following RTA’s simple tips and keeping your vehicle in check, you can help protect yourself, your passengers, and everyone else out there.
So, before you head out, take a few extra minutes for a quick inspection, it might just save a life.
