Police in Dubai step up traffic patrols for Eid holidays

Traffic department boss says patrols will be out in numbers to enforce road rules.

DUBAI // As Eid Al Fitr approaches, police in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are stepping up traffic patrols to ensure everything flows smoothly in the holiday period.

“We will be taking into consideration during this period the festivities and activities that may have an affect on traffic flow,” said Col Saif Al Mazrouei, director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police.

“Patrols will be distributed to places that see the most congestion and there will be no leniency towards those who break the road rules.”

He said that 64 patrols and more than 30 on-the-ground traffic officers would be dispatched across the emirate.

“They will cover areas including markets, tourist spots and mosques,” Col Al Mazrouei said.

For safety, he said, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Khail Road, Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road would be closely monitored. He urged the public to cooperate with the authorities and to report any breaches via the free police hotline at 800 4353.

“There will be no tolerance towards reckless drivers, especially young men who find such occasions an opportunity to showcase their driving skills by posing a danger to themselves and others.”

In Abu Dhabi, the police’s Eid plan is part of the Ministry of Interior’s “Your Safety” initiative. It includes warning drivers about the risks involved in responding to holiday greeting text messages and phone calls while driving.

Acting director of the traffic department, Brig Gen Khamis Mohammed, said motorists should observe traffic laws, avoid speeding, use seat belts at all times and leave a safe distance between vehicles.

Adults should also take extra care with children on the roads and drivers should look out for pedestrians.