'Slow down': Dubai Police issues urgent safety alert as fog covers the Emirate

Dubai: Dubai Police has urged motorists to drive with caution and remain alert as foggy conditions continue to affect visibility across the Emirate. The authority stressed that dense fog significantly reduces motorists’ field of vision and increases the likelihood of multi-vehicle collisions, which can result in serious human and material losses if drivers fail to comply with official safety guidelines.

Brigadier Jumaa bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, called on motorists to stay vigilant during changing weather and road conditions, particularly at this time of year when fog formation is common. He encouraged drivers to check weather forecasts and follow updates issued through official media channels before starting their journeys to help avoid serious road accidents.

Highlighting the dangers of fog-related crashes, Brig. bin Suwaidan said that such incidents often occur due to insufficient distance between vehicles and the failure to reduce speed or stop in safe areas when visibility drops sharply. He warned that these accidents can lead to fatalities, injuries and major property damage.

He stressed the importance of adhering to key safety measures while driving in fog, including reducing speed, using vehicle lights during early morning hours, avoiding overtaking and limiting lane changes unless necessary and after using indicators. He also advised against using high beams, which can hinder the visibility of other drivers, and warned motorists not to activate hazard lights while driving. Drivers were reminded to stay focused on the road, avoid obstructing traffic in minor accidents and allow additional travel time to prevent stress caused by delays or congestion.

Brig. bin Suwaidan noted that traffic patrols will intensify their presence on external roads to alert motorists to reduce speed and prevent vehicles from stopping dangerously on road shoulders, a practice that frequently contributes to accidents. He added that patrols will also oversee the diversion of heavy vehicles to designated rest areas and restrict truck movements during foggy conditions to reduce risks associated with slow-moving traffic.