'RTA did not issue us warning notices'

Dubai: Many owners of small driving schools on Tuesday claimed the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) did not issue them notices to improve standards or face closure.

They were reacting to the Roads and Transport Authority's (RTA) decision to close about 30 small driving schools beginning from January next year because they do not abide by Federal laws and standards. However, the RTA has not released names of the schools that face closure.

Hanan, owner of Hanayen Driving Institute, said: "We never received a notice. If some schools have violated laws, why should all the other schools be penalised. We want time, until the end of 2007 at least, to sort out our problems."

Abu Shadi, owner of Al Jabal Driving Institute, said: "We are surprised ... This will ruin us because we have bank loans and vehicle loans that we pay from what we make through training. Higher authorities should interfere and save us."

Shihab Hamad Bu Shihab, in charge of licensing processes at the RTA, said that the decision was not sudden. It was based on a previous recommendation by Dubai Police's Traffic Department on April 6, 2004 to cancel the licences of small schools by the end of 2005.

The recommendation was attached with an official letter on June 21, 2005 to the Dubai Economic Development Department to extend the time up to the end of 2006.

He said the RTA had notified training institutes in February 2006 that it will cancel all licences by the end of the year.

"The field follow-up by the RTA showed that many of these institutions exist only in name. They instead deal in real estate or are involved in other activities, which is against the law," Bu Shihab said.

He said learners at schools affected by the decision have 45 days to complete training at the schools. He said if the learner needs more classes, he or she can register with other driving institutes.

Bu Shihab said currently there are five major driving institutes, including Emirates Driving Institute, Belhasa Driving Institute and Dubai Driving Centre. Another institute is being set up by retired Dubai Police officers.

He said the law is clear and states that vehicles used for training should be properly equipped, follow safety requirements and other conditions specified by the licensing authority. Most vehicles being used by small schools were not fulfilling these conditions.

Bu Shihab added that according to Dubai laws, training is banned in residential areas as it endangers residents' lives and increases traffic congestion. Many of these institutes are located in residential areas.