Safe Journey : As the holy month of Ramadan brings families together and roads become busier with festive travel, the Sharjah Police have stepped up with a vital public awareness campaign focused on ensuring safety during the season. Recognizing the unique challenges posed by increased traffic, fasting routines, and late-night schedules, Sharjah Police have launched a comprehensive set of travel tips to promote responsible driving and enhance road safety across the emirate.
Safe Journey :A Seasonal Surge in Travel
Ramadan is traditionally a time of heightened activity — from Iftar gatherings to late-night Taraweeh prayers, shopping excursions, and weekend getaways. This seasonal mobility creates an increased demand on the roads, making accidents more likely, especially during peak Iftar hours. The Sharjah Police have observed that the hour before Iftar — when drivers rush home fatigued and distracted — is particularly critical.
Brigadier General Ahmed Al Naour, Director of the Central Operations Sector, emphasized that community safety is a collective responsibility. “Ramadan is a spiritual time of self-reflection, patience, and goodwill. These values should extend to the way we drive and interact on the roads,” he said during the launch of the safety campaign.
Key Travel Safety Tips from Sharjah Police
Sharjah Police’s safety campaign includes multilingual advisories across billboards, radio, social media platforms, and community centers. The following are the core travel tips being highlighted:
1. Plan Your Journey Early:
To avoid last-minute rushing before Iftar, drivers are encouraged to leave well in advance. Traffic peaks during the hour leading up to sunset, and the chances of accidents are statistically higher during this window.
2. Stay Hydrated Before You Drive:
For those fasting, dehydration and low blood sugar levels can affect concentration and reaction times. Sharjah Police recommend breaking the fast before driving, even with a simple date and water, if it coincides with Iftar time.
3. Avoid Aggressive Driving:
Officers have noted an increase in tailgating, abrupt lane changes, and speeding during Ramadan. Motorists are urged to exercise patience and courtesy, reflecting the true spirit of the month.
4. Be Extra Cautious Near Mosques and Tents:
Mosques and Iftar tents often attract large gatherings and parked vehicles. Drivers should reduce speed in these zones and watch for pedestrians crossing unexpectedly, especially during prayer times.
5. Use Hazard Lights Only for Emergencies:
Misuse of hazard lights in traffic or during sudden braking can confuse other drivers and lead to accidents. The Police urge drivers to use indicators properly and only switch on hazard lights in actual emergencies.
6. Do Not Drive While Drowsy:
Taraweeh prayers and late Suhoor gatherings often result in disrupted sleep cycles. Sharjah Police have advised avoiding long-distance driving while fatigued. If needed, drivers should rest before embarking on their journeys.
7. Observe Speed Limits and Traffic Laws:
As part of the campaign, additional patrols and speed monitoring units have been deployed, especially on highways and main city exits. Violations such as speeding, reckless overtaking, and using mobile phones while driving are being strictly monitored.
8. Ensure Vehicle Readiness:
Before long drives — particularly during weekend road trips or post-Iftar travel — drivers are encouraged to check tires, lights, brakes, and fluid levels. Vehicle breakdowns are common during the hot Ramadan season and can cause serious traffic disruptions.
9. Respect Parking Rules Near Iftar Tents:
Improper parking near mosques or public Iftar tents can block emergency lanes and disrupt traffic flow. Police urge the public to use designated parking areas and avoid blocking entrances or exits.
10. Report Unsafe Behavior:
Sharjah Police have enhanced their emergency response lines and encourage the public to report any unsafe or aggressive driving via the “Najeed” service or through the 901 and 999 hotlines.
Community Engagement and Awareness
To further spread the message, the Sharjah Police are collaborating with malls, schools, religious institutions, and transport hubs. Awareness booths have been set up at major shopping centers and mosques, where volunteers distribute educational pamphlets and reflective stickers for vehicles.
Interactive workshops, particularly targeting young drivers and delivery riders, are also part of the initiative. These sessions focus on accident prevention, handling Ramadan-related stress, and understanding how fasting affects driving performance.
Social media influencers and local celebrities have also joined the cause, amplifying the message through digital campaigns that use hashtags like #DriveSafeRamadan and #RamadanRoadSafety.
Special Focus on Delivery Drivers
With the surge in food delivery services during Ramadan, Sharjah Police have issued a dedicated safety circular to delivery companies. It outlines best practices, including wearing reflective vests, avoiding speed violations to meet tight delivery schedules, and staying alert while navigating traffic-dense areas.
The Police have also provided delivery riders with safety kits and reminders about observing traffic signals and avoiding mobile phone use while riding.
Enhanced Patrols and Emergency Services
Sharjah Police have increased the number of mobile patrols across known traffic hot spots and major intersections. Special quick-response units are on standby during Iftar hours and Taraweeh prayers to address emergencies swiftly.
The Traffic and Patrols Department has also set up temporary checkpoints to monitor compliance and provide on-the-spot safety tips to commuters.
Technology for Safer Ramadan Travel
As part of their smart policing strategy, Sharjah Police are leveraging surveillance cameras, AI-powered traffic systems, and real-time traffic flow analysis to manage congestion and respond promptly to accidents or violations.
Additionally, motorists are encouraged to use navigation apps to avoid congested routes and receive live updates on road conditions, especially during peak Ramadan timings.
Positive Response from Residents
Residents have widely appreciated the initiative, noting that such campaigns serve as timely reminders to uphold safety, especially when daily routines change drastically. Many drivers shared that they now plan their Iftar commute more cautiously and are more aware of how fatigue and fasting can impact focus.
Parents have expressed relief that schools are also participating by educating students about road safety and the importance of responsible behavior, even as passengers.
A Spirit of Responsibility
Sharjah Police’s campaign sends a clear message — Ramadan is a time to not only reflect spiritually but also to act responsibly in public spaces. Every driver has a role to play in ensuring the safety of others on the road.
By aligning safety with the values of the holy month — patience, empathy, and mindfulness — the Sharjah Police hope to reduce accidents, save lives, and create a safer environment for everyone observing Ramadan.
As the campaign continues through Eid, authorities are calling on all road users to stay vigilant, courteous, and considerate. After all, true celebration begins with a safe journey.
Do follow Uae stories for more Updates
Cultural Glow: Sharjah Institute for Heritage Launches ‘Heritage Nights’
