As schools across the UAE reopen, roads around campuses are expected to become increasingly busy during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up hours. Parents, school buses and pedestrians will share already crowded roads, making careful driving especially important.
Even a minor traffic violation can create congestion or put children at risk. Drivers should allow extra travel time, follow school-zone signs and avoid stopping or parking in unsafe locations.
Here are 10 common mistakes motorists should avoid during the back-to-school period.
1. Failing to stop for a school bus
Drivers must stop when a school bus extends its Stop arm to allow children to board or leave the vehicle.
Motorists should remain stationary until the bus has completed the process and it is safe to continue. Passing a stopped school bus can put children crossing the road at serious risk.
The violation can result in a Dh1,000 fine and 10 black points.
2. Speeding near schools
School zones require extra caution because children can suddenly cross roads or move between vehicles.
Drivers should follow posted speed limits rather than assuming the normal road limit applies near a school. Speeding fines can range from Dh300 to Dh3,000, depending on the severity of the violation.
3. Using a mobile phone while driving
Checking messages, answering calls or adjusting navigation while driving can take a driver’s attention away from the road.
School areas require particular concentration because pedestrians, buses and vehicles may stop or change direction unexpectedly.
Using a mobile phone while driving can result in an Dh800 fine and four black points.
4. Failing to give way at pedestrian crossings
Pedestrian crossings around schools can become crowded during arrival and dismissal times.
Drivers should slow down and allow pupils and other pedestrians enough time to cross safely. Failing to give way to pedestrians can result in a Dh500 fine and six black points.
5. Stopping on a pedestrian crossing
Stopping on a pedestrian crossing to drop off a child can force pupils to walk around vehicles or between traffic.
Parents should use designated drop-off areas and keep pedestrian crossings clear, particularly during busy school hours.
6. Stopping in the middle of the road
Stopping in a traffic lane, even for a few minutes, can quickly create congestion around schools.
Vehicles blocking lanes can force other motorists to change direction or drive around them, while children walking between cars may face additional safety risks. Parents should use designated areas for dropping off and collecting children.
7. Failing to use seat belts
Short school journeys are not an excuse to skip seat belts. Sudden braking, collisions or unexpected traffic situations can occur at any time.
All passengers should be properly secured throughout the journey. Failure to wear a seat belt can result in a Dh400 fine and four black points.
8. Ignoring child-restraint and front-seat rules
Children must be seated and secured according to UAE road-safety requirements.
Children under 10 years old, or those shorter than 145cm, should not sit in the front seat. Younger children must also use suitable child-restraint systems.
Violating child-restraint rules can lead to a Dh400 fine and four black points.
9. Blocking another vehicle while parking
Parking behind another vehicle may seem like a quick solution when school parking is crowded, but it can leave other drivers unable to leave.
Parents should avoid blocking parked vehicles and should use designated parking spaces whenever possible.
10. Parking improperly
Improper parking can worsen congestion and restrict access for pedestrians, school buses and emergency vehicles.
Drivers should avoid blocking school entrances, exits, pedestrian routes and other areas that need to remain clear.
Plan ahead during the school rush
The return to school brings predictable increases in traffic around campuses. Parents can help reduce congestion by leaving earlier, following designated drop-off and pick-up arrangements and avoiding unnecessary stops.
For motorists, the safest approach is simple: slow down, stay alert and give children and pedestrians extra space. Following traffic rules around schools not only helps drivers avoid fines and black points but also contributes to a safer environment for students.
