With the summer vacation season in full swing, residents in the UAE are not only worried about securing their homes but also ensuring that their cars are well-maintained while they are away. Some individuals have had previous experiences of fines for leaving their vehicles dirty in public parking spaces during their vacations and are now taking proactive measures to avoid penalties and have a worry-free holiday. For instance, Sharjah resident Hadi Amani is hiring a cleaner to look after his car while he is away in Iran for 20 days. He believes in keeping his car tidy at all times, not just to avoid fines but also for personal preference.
Similarly, Dubai resident Abdul Rahman Eltahir faced a fine of Dh500 upon returning from his vacation because his car was not clean. To prevent a repeat incident, he now leaves his car at the office with a colleague, ensuring it is parked indoors and well-maintained during his absence. In Abu Dhabi, Mohd AbuSalem has enlisted the help of his brother to clean his car once a week while he is away, after hearing about a friend who received a Dh3,000 fine for having a dirty car following a long vacation.
Authorities in Abu Dhabi and Dubai have cracked down on dirty cars in public spaces to maintain cleanliness and prevent health hazards. Last year, some residents returning from extended holidays were surprised to receive fines for unkempt vehicles. The Dubai Municipality enforces a policy against leaving cars unwashed in public parking spaces for prolonged periods, with fines of Dh500 applied to violators. Inspectors are tasked with identifying abandoned vehicles and providing owners with a grace period to clean them before impounding.
Emirati traffic safety researcher Dr. Mostafa Al Dah emphasizes the importance of keeping cars clean to prevent rusting and maintain their exterior. He recommends washing cars at least once a week, especially during the high temperatures of summer. Dr. Al Dah also suggests parking cars in shaded areas, using covers, maintaining proper tyre pressure, and using sun shades on the interior glass to minimize damage from sunlight exposure. Additionally, he advises car owners to have a friend start and run their cars periodically if they will be away for an extended period.
In conclusion, residents in the UAE are taking proactive steps to ensure their cars remain clean and well-maintained while they are away on summer vacations. By hiring cleaners, enlisting the help of colleagues or family members, and following expert advice on car maintenance, individuals are aiming to avoid fines and keep their vehicles in top shape. Compliance with regulations on car cleanliness not only enhances the aesthetic appearance of the cities but also contributes to road safety and vehicle longevity. Taking care of their cars while on vacation allows residents to enjoy their time away without worrying about penalties or damages to their vehicles.
