The UAE’s 53rd National Day celebrations are upon us, and this year is quite special as the occasion has been officially named Eid Al Etihad, translating to Celebration of the Union in Arabic. While the nation gears up to commemorate its historic unity with grandeur, the Ministry of Interior has issued specific guidelines to ensure safety and harmony during the festivities.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new traffic regulations and fine discounts announced for Eid Al Etihad.
New Traffic Guidelines for Eid Al Etihad
With the excitement of National Day celebrations, it’s essential for everyone — drivers, passengers, and pedestrians alike — to follow traffic rules strictly. The Ministry of Interior has emphasized the importance of adhering to these regulations to avoid fines or mishaps during the celebrations:
Do’s And Don’ts For Vehicle Decoration
- Ensure Number Plates Are Visible: Front and rear license plates must remain unobstructed at all times.
- Prohibited Decorations: Avoid placing stickers, logos, or signs on vehicles unless they are officially approved for Eid Al Etihad.
- No Window Coverings: Do not cover your vehicle’s front, side, or rear windows with decorations or stickers, as this can obstruct visibility.
- Avoid Color Alterations: Do not change the vehicle’s original color or tint the front windscreen beyond permissible limits.
- Stick To The UAE’s National Flag: Only the UAE flag can be displayed on vehicles during the celebrations. Flags of other nations are not allowed.
Safety Measures For Drivers And Passengers
- Respect Passenger Limits: Do not exceed the permitted number of passengers in your vehicle.
- No Dangling Out Of Windows Or Sunroofs: Passengers must remain seated inside the vehicle at all times.
- Party Sprays Are Prohibited: Spraying party foam or other materials that may impair visibility or cause inconvenience is strictly forbidden.
Avoid Hazardous Driving Practices
- No Stunts Or Reckless Driving: Performing stunts or any dangerous maneuvers on internal or external roads is strictly prohibited.
- Keep Roads Clear: Ensure your vehicle does not block traffic or obstruct emergency service vehicles.
- Don’t Modify Your Car’s Exhaust: Unauthorized modifications that create excessive noise or obstruct visibility are not permitted.
Regulations for Shops and Businesses
Decoration shops and vehicle accessory outlets must adhere to the Ministry’s guidelines. They are not allowed to affix unapproved stickers or flags on vehicles.
Traffic Fine Discounts Announced
In addition to the traffic guidelines, good news awaits drivers with outstanding fines. Umm Al Quwain and Ajman have announced a 50% discount on traffic fines as part of the Eid Al Etihad celebrations. This initiative is designed to encourage compliance with traffic regulations and give residents a chance to start the new year with a clean slate.
The fine discounts in Umm Al Quwain are applicable from December 01, 2024, to January 05, 2025. It covers various traffic violations committed before December 01 except for serious offences like reckless driving, endangering lives, or racing. Ajman’s discount period applies from November 05 until December 15, 2024, with similar conditions.
Other emirates have not yet announced traffic fine discounts, but residents remain hopeful that similar initiatives will be unveiled soon.
A Responsible Celebration For All
Eid Al Etihad is a time to come together and celebrate the UAE’s incredible journey as a nation. However, safety and respect for the law are paramount. The new traffic regulations and safety measures are designed to ensure that everyone can enjoy the festivities without risking accidents.
While decorating vehicles and participating in parades add to the joy of the occasion, staying mindful of the rules will help avoid unnecessary penalties. Drivers are urged to celebrate responsibly by adhering to the Ministry of Interior’s guidelines.
FAQs
For National Day 2024, Umm Al Quwain and Ajman have announced a 50% discount on traffic fines during the Eid Al Etihad celebrations, with specific conditions and dates applicable in each emirate.
Yes, Ajman is offering a 50% discount on traffic fines until December 15, 2024, covering most violations except serious offences like reckless driving or endangering lives.
Yes, Umm Al Quwain has announced a 50% discount on traffic fines from December 01, 2024, to January 05, 2025, excluding severe violations such as racing and endangering public safety.
The rules include adhering to traffic regulations, avoiding unauthorized vehicle modifications, keeping number plates visible, not exceeding passenger limits, and using only approved UAE flags or decorations for the celebrations.
It is called Eid Al Etihad, which means ‘Celebration of the Union,’ to reflect the UAE’s unity and commemorate its historic formation as a nation.
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