UAE issues safety rules for Union Day car decorations as fines announced

Ministry sets out what motorists can and cannot do during Union Day celebrations

Last updated:
Khitam Al Amir, Chief News Editor
2 MIN READ
Drivers are urged to celebrate responsibly and ensure their vehicles remain compliant with traffic regulations.
Drivers are urged to celebrate responsibly and ensure their vehicles remain compliant with traffic regulations.
Gulf News archives

Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Interior has released detailed guidelines outlining what is permitted and prohibited when celebrating and decorating vehicles during the UAE’s 54th  Union Day, emphasising safety, responsible behaviour and adherence to the law. Authorities warned that violators will face fines and vehicle impoundment.

“Violations will result in fines and the impoundment of non-compliant vehicles. Your commitment brings us joy and your safety is our priority,” the ministry said in a statement.

According to the advisory, only two practices are officially allowed: displaying stickers related to Union Day celebrations, and placing the national flag of the UAE on vehicles. All other modifications or behaviours that may compromise public safety are strictly banned.

Prohibited practices include:

• Unorganised parades and random gatherings
• Blocking or disrupting traffic
• Performing stunt driving or dangerous manoeuvres
• Leaning out of windows or sunroofs
• Overloading the vehicle beyond approved limits
• Covering the windscreen or licence plates
• Using loudspeakers, sirens or horns inappropriately
• Displaying non-official posters or banners
• Raising flags of countries other than the UAE
• Using head masks or costumes while driving
• Playing loud music except in designated celebration areas

The ministry stressed that these measures aim to maintain order on the roads and keep celebrations safe for residents and visitors. Drivers are urged to celebrate responsibly and ensure their vehicles remain compliant with traffic regulations.

The ministry reiterated its call for the public to cooperate with traffic officers, avoid risky behaviour and uphold the values of respect and responsibility during national celebrations.

Khitam Al Amir
Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor
With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public.​ Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.

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