By Staff Reporter
Residents told to maintain cars and secure home pools during school holidays
Dubai Municipality has warned residents that vehicles left unattended in public spaces during the summer holiday period could be classified as abandoned and attract a Dh500 fine in addition to towing and impound charges.
As thousands of residents travel abroad for extended vacations, the municipality urged motorists to avoid parking in deserted or sandy areas, arrange regular maintenance and cleaning, use protective covers and leave vehicles only in designated secure parking locations.
Inspection teams operate year-round to identify abandoned vehicles on roads, public parking areas and open land across the emirate. Depending on the condition and location of the vehicle, authorities issue a warning notice ranging from three to 15 days. Owners of Dubai-registered vehicles receive SMS notifications through records maintained by the Roads and Transport Authority.
If the vehicle is not removed after the warning period expires, it is transferred to an impound yard in Al Awir in coordination with Emirates Parking.
In addition to the Dh500 penalty, owners must pay towing and storage fees, which vary according to the type and weight of the vehicle and the duration of impoundment. Extra charges may apply if specialised equipment is needed for removal.
Dubai Municipality said abandoned vehicles affect the emirate’s urban appearance and that maintaining the city’s cleanliness and order is a shared public responsibility.
Separately, the municipality issued safety guidance for families using home swimming pools during the school holidays. Parents were advised to supervise children continuously, secure pool areas when not in use, install safety barriers, discourage running and rough play, maintain water treatment systems and keep children away from drainage and suction outlets that could pose drowning or injury risks.
Authorities also recommended ensuring that an emergency shut-off switch is accessible near domestic swimming pools.
