Up to Dh2,000 fine: New UAE law bans driving in valleys during rain; deters ‘wind chasers’ – News

Experts say many people drive into these areas without realizing how quickly the water level can rise and their vehicles can be sucked into the strong current

Aid volunteers and experts have praised the UAE’s new law that punishes residents who put their lives at risk by traveling to valleys and mountains in unstable weather conditions. When heavy rains hit the country, many residents indulge in so-called “wind chasing”. They deliberately ventured into areas prone to flash floods in disregard of warnings and alerts issued by the authorities.

On Thursday, the Interior Ministry announced new rules prohibiting people from gathering or entering flooded valleys or dams during periods of rain and bad weather. Doing so now carries a fine of up to Dh2,000, 23 demerit points and confiscation of the vehicle for two months.

Experts say many people drive into the valley without realizing how quickly the water level is rising and their vehicles can be sucked into the strong current.

In an interview with Khaleej Times, Ali Al Shammari, founder of UAE Rescue, highlighted how the new rules and fines are proactive in addressing recurring incidents that put people’s lives at risk.

“Our government’s goal is not to fine, but to protect life, which is a basic and necessary requirement. We want people to abide by these regulations,” he said.

The volunteer organization was established in 2018 and has carried out many rescue operations across the country.

Al Shammari highlighted the risks faced by individuals in valleys and mountains during heavy rains.

“Many people are drawn to these places because of their love of nature. However, they often remain unaware of the inherent dangers associated with such environments. Unstable slopes, landslides and strong currents pose significant threats, resulting in Tragic events in the past,” he said.

The Emirati recalled how hundreds of people were stranded on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s tallest mountain, due to torrential rains and ensuing landslides. Working with Ras Al Khaimah authorities, the team worked around the clock to rescue them.

Another volunteer, Khaleel Mon, who has been involved in the rescue operation for more than five years, said he did not understand why people were venturing into dangerous areas despite warnings from authorities. “These people go to valleys and dams when it rains. Some do so despite realizing how quickly valleys can flood.”

He highlighted the rescue operation he was involved in last year. About five families, including children, from Dubai were stranded in Wadi Shoka when heavy rains hit the country. “They came in three cars and all got washed away. They hid under a tree before our volunteers rescued them.”

He stressed that the new law was a top priority. “I just read the news about the new rules and I’m glad they’ve been issued. I hope people follow them. I reiterate that it’s very dangerous to venture into valleys during heavy rain.”

According to the Ministry of the Interior, the new law will enhance traffic safety in emergencies and when heavy rains flood valleys. “The purpose of these amendments is to strengthen the legal and institutional efforts of the relevant authorities in times of emergency, crisis, disaster, heavy rain and weather fluctuations. The amendments to the provisions are intended to strengthen existing procedures and emphasize the importance of following instructions and safety requirements ,” the ministry added.