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1 month ago
The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East,” is set to host Round 4 of the highly popular Bahrain National Drag Racing Championship from today to Friday. This round promises intense action and fierce competition as drag racing enthusiasts from across the Gulf region, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, converge on the drag strip. The event kicks off with test and tune sessions today from 6 pm to midnight, followed by another session on Wednesday from 4 pm to midnight. Qualifying rounds take center stage on Thursday, starting at 4 pm, culminating in the race day on Friday, commencing at 3 pm. Organizers anticipate a large turnout of cars and motorcycles, building on the success of previous rounds which saw over 200 participants. Competitors will vie for top honors in various categories for both cars and motorcycles. Car categories include Pro Mod, Competition 4.5, Pro 9.5, Outlaw 6 Cylinder, Outlaw 4 Cylinder, Index 7.5, Index 8.5, Index 9.0, and Index 10.0. Motorcycle categories feature Pro Street and Outlaw. Tickets are priced at 5 Bahraini Dinars for the grandstand and 3 Bahraini Dinars for the Paddock stand on qualifying and race days. Test […]
1 month ago
Law enforcement authorities in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain seized 106 vehicles in January for making significant modifications and causing noise disturbances to residents in Al Ain City. Driving noisy vehicles is considered a serious traffic violation, attracting a fine of Dh2,000 and 12 black points. Under Article 73 of the Traffic Law, drivers who make modifications to their vehicle’s engine or chassis without proper authorisation will face a fine of Dh1,000, 12 black points, and the impounding of the vehicle for 30 days. According to the impoundment rules in Abu Dhabi, the fine for releasing such modified vehicles is set at Dh10,000. The vehicle will be impounded for up to three months, and if the fine remains unpaid, the vehicle will be sold at a public auction. Brigadier Mahmoud Yusuf Al Balushi, Director of the Traffic and Patrols Directorate, warned drivers, especially young motorists, against behaviours that lead to noise pollution, reckless driving, and disturbances, particularly in residential areas and neighbourhoods. He explained that vehicle noise disrupts public peace and creates panic, stress, and frustration among other drivers, road users, and residents of the areas where these noisy vehicles pass, especially children, the sick, and the elderly. Brigadier Mahmoud […]
1 month ago
Kuwait is set to implement strict new penalties for drivers caught using mobile phones or other handheld devices while driving, as part of an effort to curb distracted driving and improve road safety. Starting April 22, motorists found using their phones while on the road will face a fine of 75 Kuwaiti dinars (Dh895 or $245), the General Traffic Department has announced. More serious violations, if referred to court, could result in up to three months in jail, fines ranging between 150 and 300 dinars, or both penalties. Authorities say the move is aimed at reducing road accidents, with distracted driving being one of the leading causes of collisions globally. “Using a phone while driving takes a driver’s focus away from the road, increasing the risk of accidents,” a traffic department official said. “These penalties are designed to deter such dangerous behavior and encourage safer driving habits.” Officials urged motorists to adhere to the new rules by using hands-free devices if necessary or pulling over safely before checking their phones. The General Traffic Department has advised drivers to stay updated on traffic regulations through official government announcements, emphasizing that the new penalties are designed to protect lives and promote responsible […]
2 months ago
Several reckless motorists were likely stunned after realizing they had been caught on camera driving in the wrong direction during a live broadcast on a major Saudi television channel. While a correspondent for Saudi state broadcaster Al Ekhbariya TV was on air delivering a report from a public square in Jazan, southwestern Saudi Arabia, cars were seen in the background violating traffic laws by driving on the opposite side of the road — a serious offence in the kingdom. عندما كان مراسل #الإخبارية في بث مباشر قصير عند ميدان الشراع في جازان.. الكاميرا ترصد مخالفي السير pic.twitter.com/MdaJFZJPUS — قناة الإخبارية (@alekhbariyatv) January 29, 2025 “The camera captures traffic violators,” Al Ekhbariya commented in an X post, sharing the accidental footage. Under Saudi traffic law, driving in the wrong direction is punishable by fines ranging from SR 3,000 to SR 6,000, depending on the severity of the violation. According to Saudi prosecutors, this offense is classified as a major crime requiring arrest if it results in death or the loss of a limb. The same applies to driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, performing dangerous stunts, or running a red light. Earlier, the kingdom’s Public Prosecution emphasized that Article […]
2 months ago
As the barrierless parking rollout begins at three popular malls in Dubai, motorists are warned that a Dh150 fine applies if the fee is not paid three days after leaving the shopping centres. The new parking system has already been activated at City Centre Deira and it will be introduced at Mall of the Emirates (MOE) early next month, Majid Al Futtaim confirmed to Khaleej Times. Without barriers, motorists can freely drive through the malls’ parking lots, not having to stop for tickets. Vehicles’ licence plates are automatically tracked by cameras as they enter and exit the car park. An SMS with a payment link is sent to drivers for any charges. Parking fees have to be paid within three days; otherwise, a fine of Dh150 will apply, based on the information available on the MOE website. “If you don’t pay within two days of leaving the mall, you’ll receive an SMS reminder and a phone call the next day,” said the statement. “If you still haven’t paid after three days, you’ll be fined Dh150 as per the UAE’s standard parking fine.” Those who leave their cars in spaces where parking is not permitted will be fined Dh1,000. “If you park in spaces […]
2 months ago
Smart paid parking services are now operational in Sharjah City, the emirate’s municipality announced on Sunday. A total of 392 parking spaces are available in 2 smart parking areas that opened in Al Khan and Al Nad, the authority said on Monday. How smart parking works First, as vehicles enter through the designated entrance, drivers’ number plates are automatically detected. Then, while exiting, the smart cameras will read the plate again. The parking duration will be calculated by the system, and a notification will be sent to the owner with the applicable fees. Motorists can then proceed to pay for parking via the Mawqef application. Payments can be made either by e-wallet or credit card. Apart from an hourly basis, paid parking can also be reserved from anywhere between one day to one year, with motorists being given the option to pay for a week and a month too.
2 months ago
Kuwait has introduced comprehensive amendments to its traffic laws under Decree-Law No. 5 of 2025, imposing significantly harsher penalties for a wide range of violations. The reforms, aimed at improving road safety and curbing reckless behavior, represent the most extensive overhaul of Kuwait’s traffic regulations since the original law was enacted in 1976. The new provisions include fines ranging from KD 15 to KD 10,000, alongside stricter imprisonment terms for severe offenses. Key violations and penalties: Modernised administrative measures: The law introduces electronic communication for traffic violations and court summonses through government apps, SMS, or email, streamlining the legal process and ensuring timely notifications. Courts can now impose alternative penalties, such as community service, rehabilitation programs, or restitution for damages caused by violations. Police officers are authorised to arrest individuals for severe offenses, including fleeing the scene of an accident, DUI, or participating in high-speed road races. Repeat offenders face heightened penalties, with license suspensions of up to five years. The amendments are set to take effect three months after publication in the Official Gazette, giving drivers and vehicle owners time to familiarise themselves with the updated regulations. The Ministry of Interior emphasised that these reforms aim to reduce traffic […]
2 months ago
Porsche delivered 9,509 new cars in the Middle East, Africa and India region in the 2024 calendar year. This represents 4 per cent growth compared to 2023, and follows an 11 per cent increase the year prior. New car deliveries in the region have now grown 53 per cent since 2020. “The global economy, and indeed our region, is experiencing uncertain times. Despite this our importers and our teams have worked harder than ever for our customers and, as a result, achieved yet another year of growth,” said Dr Manfred Bräunl, Chief Executive Officer, Porsche Middle East and Africa FZE. Sales of two-door models were especially strong, showing the passion and enthusiasm for Porsche sportscars in this region. Sales of 911 models grew 49 per cent to 1914 vehicles, a record for the region. The 718 Cayman and Boxster models saw sales increase by 21 per cent. One in four vehicles delivered across the region in 2024 were two door sportscars. It was a busy year for Porsche Centres and showrooms across the 16 markets of the region, with new generations of Panamera, Taycan, 911 and Macan all commencing deliveries in 2024. The fourth edition of the Icons of Porsche […]
2 months ago
Recent data released by the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications has showcased considerable growth in the issuance and renewal of licenses, as well as operational cards within the taxi sector. These statistics not only highlight the increasing activity in licensing but also stress the number of inspection campaigns conducted by the ministry to ensure proper regulation and compliance within this vital sector. According to the official figures provided by the ministry, a total of 68 new taxi licenses were issued over the past year. In addition to this, 381 existing licenses were successfully renewed. Furthermore, the ministry undertook 385 inspection campaigns throughout the year. These campaigns play a crucial role in ensuring that all taxi operators adhere to the laws and regulations governing the sector, thereby promoting safety and reliability for passengers. The data also indicates that there are approximately 1,338 taxi vehicles currently operating in Bahrain. This fleet comprises 970 private taxis and 460 taxis that are affiliated with five different companies. The categories of these taxis include both traditional taxis and services that operate under ride-hailing models. The total number of licensed companies within the taxi sector stands at 10, which includes three traditional taxi companies, five ride-hailing […]
2 months ago
Starting January 27, new restrictions on heavy vehicles will be enforced on Abu Dhabi’s roads, Abu Dhabi Mobility announced on Monday. The move aims to improve traffic flow and safety in the city, as part of an ongoing effort to address the growing volume of vehicles in the capital. Under the updated guidelines, heavy vehicles—including freight trucks, tankers, and construction equipment—will be banned from the roads during peak traffic times. From Monday to Thursday, the restrictions will be in place from 6.30am to 9am, and again from 3pm to 7pm. On Fridays, the ban will apply to the same morning hours, with an additional restriction in the afternoon from 11am to 1pm. This initiative is designed to reduce traffic congestion caused by the slower movement of heavy vehicles alongside lighter ones during peak hours. The move also aims to protect infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, from wear and tear caused by the weight of heavy loads. Abu Dhabi Mobility noted that it is working closely with the Abu Dhabi Police to ensure that heavy vehicle owners adhere to the updated timings. In a related move, Dubai is also tightening restrictions on truck movement. Beginning January 1, trucks are banned […]
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