Authorities Issue Red Alerts as Foggy Weather Disrupts Morning Commute Across the Emirates
The UAE weather forecast fog alert continues today as dense mist blanketed large parts of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the Northern Emirates on Thursday morning, significantly reducing visibility and prompting officials to issue red alerts for road safety. Motorists across the country faced challenging conditions, with visibility dropping to just a few metres in some areas during the early hours.
According to the National Center of Meteorology (NCM), fog formation began before sunrise and is expected to persist through the morning. Residents are advised to stay alert for updates on the UAE weather situation, as more patches of fog are likely to develop overnight due to dropping temperatures and high humidity.
Authorities and road safety experts are urging drivers to exercise extreme caution and avoid dangerous habits, particularly the widespread misuse of hazard lights during foggy weather in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Hazard Lights Misuse During Fog Can Be Dangerous and Costly
As fog in Dubai worsened early Thursday, many drivers were seen switching on their hazard lights to improve visibility. However, automotive experts and the Dubai Police have warned that this practice is not only illegal but also highly dangerous.
Using hazard lights while driving can confuse other motorists and obscure turn signals, making lane changes and braking more difficult to predict. “Several people think using their hazards is safer,” said automotive technician Syeda Aisha Atif, speaking to Khaleej Times. “But when you drive with hazard lights on, you confuse the drivers around you. They won’t be able to see when you change lanes or react in time — this causes accidents.”
Drivers caught using hazard lights incorrectly during foggy weather Dubai conditions face a fine of Dh500 and four black points on their license.
Instead, experts emphasize that motorists should use low-beam headlights and front and rear fog lights, maintain a safe speed, and keep a greater distance from vehicles ahead.
Safety Tips for Driving in Foggy Conditions
The UAE weather forecast fog alert has prompted authorities to remind residents of essential driving safety practices:
- Keep low-beam headlights on and use fog lights instead of hazard lights.
- Maintain a safe following distance — at least double the usual space between cars.
- Stay within your lane and avoid unnecessary overtaking.
- Use the right edge of the road as a visual guide when visibility is poor.
- Avoid distractions such as phones or adjusting car settings.
- Pull over safely if visibility drops to zero — preferably at a petrol station or rest area.
- Leave earlier or delay travel plans if possible during dense fog in Dubai and surrounding regions.
Driving in fog already reduces depth perception and reaction time, making lane changes and braking more difficult. The wrong use of lights can make an already risky situation far more dangerous.
Morning Commute Disruptions Across the Emirates
The UAE weather on Thursday morning caused slower-than-usual traffic on major routes, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Abu Dhabi–Al Ain Highway, as motorists navigated thick fog. Public transport schedules were also delayed in some areas, and airport operations reported minor disruptions due to low visibility.
The NCM warned that foggy weather in Dubai is likely to persist through the weekend, especially in inland areas. Drivers and commuters are encouraged to check the latest UAE weather forecast and traffic reports before setting out on the roads.
In Dubai, police patrols were deployed along major highways to assist motorists and ensure safe driving practices. The authorities also reiterated that hazard lights should only be used in genuine emergencies — such as vehicle breakdowns or road accidents — and not as a visibility aid during foggy weather.
Outlook: Foggy Mornings Expected to Continue
Meteorologists predict that fog in Dubai and Abu Dhabi may continue over the next few days, particularly in the early mornings and late nights. As winter approaches, conditions for fog formation — including cooler nights and higher humidity — are expected to persist until late December.
Residents are urged to stay updated on the UAE weather forecast fog alerts through official channels and avoid taking unnecessary risks during low-visibility conditions.
Stay Updated on UAE Weather Alerts and Safety Tips
For live updates on the UAE weather, fog alerts, and safety advisories for foggy weather in Dubai, visit StartupNews.FYI — your trusted source for weather, transport, and travel updates across the Emirates.
