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Filipino Times
18-04-2025
- Automotive
- Filipino Times
One text = AED 800? UAE reminds drivers to stay focused behind the wheel
Abu Dhabi Police recently shared a hard-hitting video on social media showing real-life car crashes, warning: 'Using your phone while driving is a danger to all road users.' The post is part of the GCC Traffic Week awareness campaign, in partnership with the Control and Monitoring Center. The message is clear: one moment of distraction—whether it's checking WhatsApp, replying to a message, or scrolling through TikTok—can lead to a life-changing accident. For Filipino drivers in the UAE, especially those rushing to work, picking up family, or navigating new roads, this is a reminder to stay focused behind the wheel. According to UAE traffic laws, using your mobile phone while driving comes with an AED 800 fine and 4 black traffic points. That's not just a dent in your wallet—it can also affect your driving record. Violations inside the vehicle Distractions don't stop at phones. Eating, adjusting the GPS, or even getting too caught up in conversations with a passenger can shift your focus. It only takes a second for something to go wrong. Parents and guardians also have a special responsibility. Allowing kids under 10 years old or shorter than 145 cm to sit in the front seat will cost you AED 400. Not using a child seat for kids under 4 years old? Another AED 400 fine. And don't forget the basics: seatbelts are a must for the driver and all passengers. That's AED 400 and 4 black points if ignored. Whether you're heading home after a long shift or picking up groceries in Deira, always put safety first. Driving in the UAE comes with high standards, and staying alert and responsible behind the wheel protects not just your license but lives.


Zawya
16-04-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) organises the 'No Distraction While Driving' forum
Abu Dhabi – As part of the 2025 GCC Traffic Week, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), under the Department of Municipalities and Transport, organised the 'No Distraction While Driving' forum. The event was attended by several officials and road safety experts, as well as representatives from the Federal Traffic Council, the Joint Traffic Safety Committee, and a range of relevant public and private sector entities. The forum was organised in partnership with the International Road Federation (IRF) with the aim of raising public awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. It also provided a platform to showcase best practices, as well as technological and legislative solutions that help reduce traffic accidents caused by driver inattention. The initiative aligns with Abu Dhabi's ongoing efforts to build a safer, more sustainable mobility system and to enhance the quality of life for all members of the community. The forum aligned with global initiatives spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Mobility in collaboration with the IRF. These initiatives focus on sharing international insights and expertise to enhance global awareness of the risks associated with distracted driving, while encouraging both public and private sector entities to adopt technological and regulatory solutions aimed at reducing distraction-related road accidents. The forum welcomed the participation of representatives from GCC countries, including officials from government bodies and university professors, in a panel discussion titled 'Driver Distraction in the GCC'. The session addressed key themes focused on strengthening road safety awareness and curbing the use of mobile phones while driving. The session also explored ways to integrate AI technologies in monitoring driver behaviour, and highlighted the need to require car manufacturers to develop smart systems that help reduce distraction. In addition, it showcased leading regional practices and regulatory frameworks aimed at deterring such behaviour. In his opening address at the forum, Dr. Abdulla Hamad Al Ghfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, affirmed that enhancing road safety and reducing traffic accidents are key priorities within Abu Dhabi Mobility 's strategy. He reiterated the Centre's commitment to leveraging advanced technologies and legislative measures, in coordination with relevant entities, to address unsafe driving behaviours, with distracted driving being one of the leading causes of road accidents. Al Ghfeli noted that the forum, held in collaboration with the IRF, is part of Abu Dhabi Mobility 's broader efforts to raise community awareness, identify challenges, and implement effective solutions to improve road safety and security. These efforts support the ongoing development of the mobility system and contribute to enhancing the quality of life for all members of society. He also emphasised Abu Dhabi Mobility 's commitment to active participation in the global initiative to reduce distracted driving, under the patronage of the IRF, which aims to raise international awareness of the risks associated with distraction and foster global cooperation to achieve the highest standards in road safety. Brigadier Ahmed Saeed Al Naqbi, Head of the Awareness and Road Safety Team at the Federal Traffic Council, affirmed in his address at the forum that road safety is a national priority, in line with the country's commitment to protecting lives and property. He highlighted the Council's ongoing efforts to support national awareness initiatives and to strengthen the traffic legislation framework, with the aim of reducing road accidents and improving compliance with traffic regulations. Al Naqbi praised the efforts of Abu Dhabi, represented by the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), in organising the forum, which serves as an important platform for the exchange of expertise and best practices among GCC countries. He emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts between government entities, the private sector and the wider community to achieve a safer and more sustainable traffic environment. The forum also featured the announcement of an innovative awareness initiative launched in partnership with Yango. The campaign will deliver targeted safety messages through Yango's mobile applications for both passengers and drivers, focusing on the dangers of using mobile phones while driving or crossing the road. At the conclusion of the forum, an interactive session was held with youth and members of the public, during which they presented innovative proposals to address the issue of distracted driving. Among the most notable ideas were the use of AI and virtual reality to simulate accidents in educational settings, such as schools and universities, as well as the launch of digital awareness campaigns using modern, interactive methods to engage various segments of society through social media platforms. It is worth noting that the GCC Traffic Week, held under the patronage of the Federal Traffic Council, features a range of awareness initiatives and activities aimed at promoting a culture of road safety and supporting the nation's efforts to protect lives and property. It also contributes to realising Abu Dhabi's vision of developing a safe and sustainable mobility system that helps reduce accidents, fatalities and injuries, while enhancing the overall quality of life in the Emirate. About Abu Dhabi Mobility: Abu Dhabi Mobility is the brand identity launched by the Integrated Transport Centre, an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, that is aligned with Abu Dhabi's ambitious vision to rank among the most advanced cities in the world, and deliver a safe, smart and sustainable mobility ecosystem across the Emirate. Abu Dhabi Mobility 's mandate includes overseeing land transport, aviation and maritime activities solidifying its commitment to shaping the future of mobility in the region. Abu Dhabi Mobility will harness technology, innovation, and sustainability to accommodate the Emirate's growing population, redefine urban living, and meet future mobility needs.


Zawya
15-04-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) participates in the Gulf Traffic Week 2025
Abu Dhabi: As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing traffic awareness and promoting road safety for all road users, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, took part in the 40th edition of the Gulf Traffic Week. Held under the theme 'Drive without a phone' the event ran from 13 to 18 April 2025. Abu Dhabi Mobility 's participation in this prominent event reaffirmed the Emirate's commitment to enhancing road safety and promoting a culture of traffic discipline. It also aimed to uphold the highest traffic safety standards across Abu Dhabi. The initiative was carried out under the framework of the Joint Traffic Safety Committee, led by the Department of Municipalities and Transport, with members including the Integrated Transport Centre, the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi. As part of its active participation in Gulf Traffic Week, Abu Dhabi Mobility emphasised the dangers of mobile phone use and driver distraction, both of which are among the main causes of road accidents. A range of awareness activities were organised, including panel discussions that explored critical road safety topics and stressed the need for concentration and alertness behind the wheel. The initiative also showcased successful international case studies aimed at minimising driver distraction. As part of its participation in the GCC Traffic Week, Abu Dhabi Mobility showcased its strategic initiatives through an interactive platform held at City Centre Al Zahia in Sharjah, in collaboration with several government entities and private sector partners. The participation featured a showcase of strategic projects, including the Vision Zero strategy, which aims to enhance road safety by implementing engineering and technological interventions at high-risk locations such as intersections, pedestrian crossings, and roads with high accident rates. The event also marked the launch of the pilot phase for the implementation of Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) communication technology on Sheikh Zayed Road, one of the key arterial roads in Abu Dhabi, with the aim of studying its impact on improving traffic flow and enhancing road user safety. The exhibition further included a detailed presentation of the Smart Driving Test project, in addition to broadcasting awareness content through interactive screens and distributing educational materials focused on the importance of adhering to safe driving standards, particularly avoiding mobile phone use and distractions while driving. The exhibition further included a detailed presentation of the Smart Driving Test System project, in addition to broadcasting awareness content through interactive screens and distributing educational materials focused on the importance of adhering to safe driving standards, particularly avoiding mobile phone use and distractions while driving. Abu Dhabi Mobility also sought to amplify the campaign's messages by displaying the GCC Traffic Week logo on Darb toll gates at the entrances of the Abu Dhabi City, broadcasting traffic safety messages on electronic road signs across main roads, and lighting up key landmarks in Abu Dhabi in yellow to ensure the awareness message reaches all segments of society. Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, affirmed that Gulf Traffic Week provides an important platform to highlight unsafe driving behaviours and promote a culture of road safety across the community. He said: ' Abu Dhabi Mobility 's participation in this initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting national efforts aimed at enhancing traffic safety and raising public awareness of the dangers of distracted driving. Safe driving begins with focus and attention. Using a mobile phone while driving or being distracted by other factors is a leading cause of road accidents. Therefore, we remain dedicated to working closely with our partners across the public and private sectors to implement impactful awareness campaigns and foster a safer, smarter, and more sustainable mobility environment for all road users, in line with Abu Dhabi's vision.' This event serves as a clear reflection of the shared commitment among Gulf Cooperation Council countries to enhance road safety and security. It also underscores the vital role of collaboration between all relevant stakeholders in reducing traffic accidents. Abu Dhabi Mobility reiterates its commitment to supporting awareness initiatives and its close cooperation with strategic partners to help achieve this important objective, while striving to provide a safer and more efficient mobility environment for both residents and visitors of Abu Dhabi. About Abu Dhabi Mobility: Abu Dhabi Mobility is the brand identity launched by the Integrated Transport Centre, an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, that is aligned with Abu Dhabi's ambitious vision to rank among the most advanced cities in the world, and deliver a safe, smart and sustainable mobility ecosystem across the Emirate. Abu Dhabi Mobility 's mandate includes overseeing land transport, aviation and maritime activities solidifying its commitment to shaping the future of mobility in the region. Abu Dhabi Mobility will harness technology, innovation, and sustainability to accommodate the Emirate's growing population, redefine urban living, and meet future mobility needs.


Observer
13-04-2025
- Observer
Gulf Traffic Week 2025 begins
The General Directorate of Traffic at the Royal Oman Police (ROP) launched the 37th edition of the GCC Traffic Week along with the rest of the GCC under the auspices of Issa bin Hamad al Azri, Secretary-General of the Supreme Judicial Council on Sunday. The Week, themed 'Driving Without a Phone' will also be marked with a series of events and educational sessions including an intensive awareness exhibition on various aspects of traffic safety at the Mall of Oman ensuring the participation of the public from various quarters. 'This year's Gulf Traffic Week is paying enormous attention to the fact that the majority of the accidents are caused by recklessness and usage of mobile phones while driving,' said Lieutenant Colonel Saif bin Ahmed al Ramadhani, Director, Executive Office, National Committee for Road Safety at the DG of Traffic Safety, Royal Oman Police. According to him, the major reasons behind traffic accidents in Oman are three. "Major reasons behind road accidents are speeding, usage of mobile phones and driving when one is tired and according to studies, the root cause of 87 per cent of the accidents is attributed to human error," he said. "Accidents happen predominantly due to human behaviour, human errors and reckless driving and a small number of accidents are caused by faulty vehicles because our departments pay careful attention to decide the safety measures of the vehicles from time to time. When it comes to road factor, the Ministry of Transport, Communication and Information Technology (MoTCIT) is sparing no stone unturned and is building better roads and other infrastructure for better transportation," he added. 'Of course, there needs to be a certain amount of public awareness as pedestrians using wrong areas to cut across the road also cause accidents, another major concern as unscientific usage of roads by pedestrians can result in major accidents.


Al Etihad
13-04-2025
- Automotive
- Al Etihad
Thirty-eighth Unified GCC Traffic Week kicks off in Kuwait
13 Apr 2025 17:25 KUWAIT (WAM)The 38th Unified GCC Traffic Week, "Driving without a Phone," and its accompanying exhibition kicked off Sunday in Kuwait under the patronage of the Interior Ministry Undersecretary, Lieutenant General Sheikh Salem Nawaf Al-Ahmad his opening remarks, Lieutenant General Sheikh Salem Al-Sabah emphasised the importance of the Unified GCC Traffic Week in spreading traffic awareness and promoting a culture of adherence to traffic rules to protect lives and practice safe traffic behavior in GCC stated that the GCC Traffic Week represents an important opportunity to enhance cooperation between law enforcement and the community, contributing to reducing traffic accidents and achieving a safer and more disciplined traffic added that the new traffic law in Kuwait will go into effect on April 22, and it will include a series of amendments aimed at raising road safety and enhancing compliance with traffic regulations.