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Time Out Abu Dhabi
an hour ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
A new traffic fine warning has been issued by the Abu Dhabi Police
Motorists in Abu Dhabi, take note – the police are turning up the volume on a message you'll want to hear: pay your traffic fines early and save big. There's a fresh campaign rolled out across 73 advertising screens at Adnoc petrol stations across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra. The Abu Dhabi Police are encouraging drivers to act fast on outstanding fines through their 'Act Now and Benefit' initiative. The main headline? A 35 percent discount for those who pay up within 60 days. Drive now, pay less Got a fine? You now have options. If you settle it within two months of the violation, you'll get a 35 percent discount – no paperwork, no fuss. Missed the deadline? You can still score a 25 percent discount if you pay within a year. These incentives apply to most violations, excluding the most serious offences. It's a practical move designed to keep your wallet happy – and keep your driving record clean. Fewer queues, smarter payment Gone are the days of standing in line or rushing to meet office hours. The Abu Dhabi Police have introduced flexible payment channels that include digital platforms, debit payment options and even instalment plans. Whether you're at home or on the go, you can now settle your fines on your terms. Safety meets convenience This isn't just about saving money – it's about safer roads and smarter systems. By broadcasting reminders at petrol stations, the initiative meets motorists where they are, using everyday stops as moments to encourage better habits. The bottom line is, don't wait until the fine piles up. With discounts, digital tools and flexible plans now in place, there's no excuse to leave that penalty hanging. Check your traffic fines, act early and steer clear of unnecessary costs. Abu Dhabi Police are making it easier than ever to drive responsibly – and affordably. Summer in Abu Dhabi The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss Psst: This is when summer officially ends in Abu Dhabi No complaints here 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits
Time Out Abu Dhabi
an hour ago
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Here's what you need to know about the foreign transaction fees going up on UAE cards
Travelling abroad? Your next holiday might cost more than just flights and hotel bookings – especially if you're swiping a UAE-issued card. Starting September 22, UAE banks will raise the foreign transaction fee to 3.14 percent on all international purchases and ATM withdrawals made using credit or debit cards. Whether you're shopping on a U.S.-based website or booking a boutique hotel in Rome, the fee applies – and it's a noticeable jump from the current 2.09 percent. What's actually changing? Customers across the UAE have begun receiving notices from their banks confirming the change. The new fee structure typically includes: 1 percent currency conversion fee (charged by Visa, Mastercard, or Amex) 2.14 percent bank processing fee That adds up to a total 3.14 percent surcharge – so if you're spending Dhs5,000 abroad, expect to pay an extra Dhs157 in fees alone. The hidden fee trap: DCC One sneaky charge to avoid? Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). It might seem helpful when a foreign merchant offers to convert your purchase into dirhams on the spot, but it's rarely a good deal. DCC often comes with inflated exchange rates – sometimes adding 5-7 percent extra – and you may still be charged the full foreign transaction fee. Tip: Always choose to pay in the local currency, not AED, when using your card overseas. How to dodge the worst of the fees The 3.14 percent fee may be unavoidable for many travellers, but there are ways to cut the cost: Use a travel-friendly or 'no foreign fee' credit card: Some UAE banks offer cards that waive these fees entirely. Withdraw cash strategically: Pull out larger amounts at once rather than frequent ATM visits, which can each trigger fees. Say no to DCC: Stick with local currency whenever you're asked at a store, restaurant, or ATM. Try multicurrency prepaid travel cards: Some UAE fintechs offer these with fixed exchange rates and no added foreign transaction charges. Know your fees: Check your bank's app or fee schedule before you travel so you're not caught off guard. A homegrown alternative may be coming Later this year, the UAE is expected to roll out its Jaywan card internationally – a new payment system that could offer lower foreign transaction fees and better rates. It's not available globally just yet, but watch this space. The upcoming fee hike means UAE travellers will need to be more strategic with how they spend overseas. From choosing the right credit card to dodging costly conversions, a little prep could save you hundreds of dirhams on your next trip. Need some travel inspo? Travelling from Abu Dhabi is about to be so much faster Zayed International Airport is the world's first airport to make this change 18 countries offering visa-on-arrival to UAE residents Here's where to go UAE citizens now get visa-on-arrival for India: a game-changer for travellers That quick trip to India just got even easier
Middle East Eye
2 hours ago
- Middle East Eye
European Commission considers suspending Israel's access to EU funding for tech start-ups
The European Commission (EC) on Monday said it is considering suspending Israel's access to European Union (EU) funding for tech start-ups, following pressure over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, AFP reported. A string of EU countries have pushed for concrete action against Israel in the face of growing fears of mass starvation in the war-ravaged territory. The proposed action would involve partially suspending Israel's involvement in the Horizon research programme and will be discussed by the EU's 27 countries on 29 July. It would need the approval of the majority of member states to go into force. "The situation remains severe," the EC said in a statement. "The proposed suspension is a targeted and reversible action," it added. The EU has been criticised for not doing enough to end Israel's war on Gaza.
