a Dh2,000 fine and 60 days in jail when off-roading in the UAE How to avoid it
There will be harsh sanctions for careless driving in these natural areas with no regard for responsibility or safety.
Residents of the UAE are eager to explore the less-traveled wadis, take advantage of off-roading, and go camping in the desert after spending the entire summer indoors. However, community members are being urged by UAE officials to remember and abide by the regulations.
Ras Al Khaimah Police have warned citizens of the severe penalties for those who drive recklessly on the dunes in order to improve safety and protect the wildlife.
Offenders risk a potential 60-day jail sentence, a heavy Dh2,000 fine, and 23 traffic black points. Anybody discovered operating a vehicle in a way that endangers their own safety, others' safety and security, or puts a hazard on public or private property is subject to these penalties.
It is not appropriate to use wilderness and desert areas as gathering places for irresponsible behavior, loud noises, or disorder. Authorities stress that driving in these natural areas carelessly and without consideration for other people's safety or responsibility may result in harsh consequences.
To meet the public's demand for excitement and fun, the government has set aside specified areas for racing, energy release, and recreational activities. It is recommended that locals make use of these specifically designated areas, which guarantee a more secure and regulated setting for leisure activities while upholding the tranquility and balance of natural environments.
These warnings follow the announcement by Sharjah Police to formally close the Al Faya dunes area in the central section of the emirate following a terrible event on November 17 that claimed the life of an Asian kid involved in an off-roading accident.
One sacred rule for drivers, according to professional driver, author, and model vehicle restorer Fraser M. Martin, is to "remember that the best off-roaders are the ones who can do it the slowest without getting stuck - if you want to go fast across the desert, apply to Etihad Rail."
A majority of drivers may not be aware of the regulations and dangers associated with off-roading. Despite the fact that it's an adventure sport requiring specialized abilities, devotees frequently go horribly unprepared.
Expert off-roader Shibu Nair of Titan Performance stated: "Safety and experience are crucial when hitting a trail. Off-roading is an adventure sport." Always drive within your capabilities and avoid pushing yourself too far."
Fundamental off-road guidelines:
- For safety and practical reasons, never go off-roading alone. Calm down that carefree attitude. Avoid dangerous scenarios like having to pull a car out of the sand by traveling in a group or with at least one experienced off-road driver in a different automobile.
- Don't just drive off without a strategy or an agenda; instead, plan the trip. Make sure your car is trail-worthy before you head out onto the trails.
- Frequent off-roaders will be well acquainted with their vehicle and its equipment, but novices and part-timers may require a review on what their vehicle is capable of.
- Make sure you are in good enough health to try off-roading and that you have had enough sleep before you step on the accelerator. People frequently forget that it's an extreme sport that could really harm you if the right safety measures aren't followed.
- Just leave footprints and take pictures. It is imperative that you know how to remove the rubbish you bring in with you if you intend to camp in the desert.
Leader of PWR52 Offroaders (Pinoy Pajero Club UAE), Emong Ang, once said: "Don't let your ego get in the way of your happiness or the happiness of others. Leave it at home." There are events made just for competition, so there's no need to be competitive."
Making plans to take your rubbish with you is crucial, according to Emong, an off-road enthusiast who frequently participates in desert clean-up drives with other drivers. What additional important considerations should drivers make to ensure a safe trip?
Basic equipment that any off-roader needs to own:
- Keep your first aid kit with you to tend to any cuts or wounds.
- In the event that you need to change a wheel, keep a shovel and a sturdy, level board nearby to securely place a jack.
- Tools for recovery such as shackles (soft shackles preferred)
- Extra tire
- Compressor air
- Jumper wires
- standard toolbox
- Extinguisher for fire
- Make sure you bring more water than you anticipate using.
- Kinetic or snatch strap tow ropes are both acceptable, but at least one is required.