JobXDubai

As the summer holiday season approaches, UAE residents are becoming increasingly aware of the potential fines for leaving their vehicles unattended and dirty while they’re away. With penalties reaching up to Dh3,000, many are taking proactive measures to ensure their cars remain clean and well-maintained during their absence.

Key Points:

• Fines for dirty cars can range from Dh500 to Dh3,000 across different emirates
• Residents are employing various strategies to keep their vehicles clean while on vacation
• Authorities aim to maintain city aesthetics and prevent health hazards

Resident Strategies

UAE residents are getting creative in their approaches to avoid fines:

1. Hiring Cleaners: Some, like Sharjah resident Hadi Amani, are employing cleaners to maintain their vehicles during their absence.
2. Enlisting Help from Colleagues: Dubai resident Abdul Rahman Eltahir plans to leave his car at his office, entrusting a colleague with its care.
3. Family Assistance: In Abu Dhabi, Mohd AbuSalem has asked his brother to clean his car weekly while he’s away.

Municipality Regulations

Different emirates have implemented regulations to address the issue of abandoned and dirty vehicles:

• Dubai: Enforcing a Dh500 fine since July 2019 for vehicles left unwashed in public spaces for extended periods.
• Abu Dhabi: Fines of up to Dh3,000 have been reported in the Al Dhafra region.
• Sharjah: In 2021, the municipality impounded 3,911 ‘abandoned cars’ in just six months.

Expert Advice

Dr. Mostafa Al Dah, an Emirati traffic safety researcher, offers valuable tips for car owners:

• Regular washing prevents rusting and maintains the vehicle’s condition
• Store cars in garages or underground parking when possible
• Arrange for someone to start and briefly run the engine weekly
• Use car covers or find shaded parking to protect from sun damage
• Maintain proper tire pressure to prevent flat tires

Conclusion

As UAE residents prepare for their summer getaways, keeping their vehicles clean has become an essential part of vacation planning. By taking these precautions, they can enjoy their holidays worry-free, knowing their cars are well-maintained and compliant with local regulations.