The UAE has launched a nationwide National Winter Traffic Safety Campaign aimed at improving safety awareness at petrol stations and reducing accidents caused by unsafe refueling behavior. The initiative reflects the country’s strong commitment to public safety, especially during the winter season when travel activity across highways, desert areas, and urban roads significantly increases.
The campaign is being led by the Joint Committee for Security and Safety and will run for one month across the UAE. It focuses on educating motorists, motorcycle riders, and off-road vehicle users about responsible refueling practices to protect lives, property, and public infrastructure.
National Collaboration for Public Safety
The National Winter Traffic Safety Campaign is chaired by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and is being carried out in close coordination with the General Command of Civil Defense under the Ministry of Interior. Several major fuel distribution companies are also actively participating in the campaign, including ADNOC Distribution, Emarat, and ENOC.
This collaboration between government authorities and national energy companies highlights a unified national approach toward accident prevention and community safety. By bringing together regulatory bodies and fuel station operators, the campaign ensures that safety messages reach motorists directly at points where risks are most likely to occur.
Why Winter Season Demands Extra Caution
Winter in the UAE often sees an increase in road travel, long-distance driving, and desert excursions. Many residents and visitors use motorcycles, quad bikes, and four-wheel-drive vehicles for recreational activities during cooler weather. This seasonal shift in travel patterns raises the risk of accidents, particularly at petrol stations where improper refueling habits can lead to fires, injuries, or damage to facilities.
The campaign aims to address these seasonal risks by reinforcing preventive measures and encouraging safer behavior at fuel stations nationwide. Authorities believe that consistent awareness can significantly reduce incidents related to negligence or lack of knowledge.
Focus on Safe Refueling Practices
A major goal of the UAE National Winter Traffic Safety Campaign is to improve awareness of correct refueling procedures. Unsafe behavior at petrol stations, even if unintentional, can result in serious consequences for both individuals and others nearby.
Key Safety Guidelines to Follow at Petrol Stations
Motorists and riders are strongly advised to follow essential safety instructions during refueling. These include switching off vehicle and motorcycle engines before refueling begins, ensuring that vehicles are properly positioned at fuel pumps, and strictly complying with all posted safety signs and instructions.
Motorcycle riders are encouraged to dismount and avoid remaining seated during refueling, as this can increase the risk of fuel spills or accidents. Using mobile phones while refueling is also strongly discouraged, as it can cause distractions and potential hazards.
By following these simple yet critical practices, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and help maintain a safe environment for everyone at petrol stations.
Special Attention to Motorcycles and Desert Vehicles
One of the key focus areas of the campaign is the safe refueling of motorcycles and desert vehicles. These vehicles often require extra caution due to their exposed fuel systems and design differences compared to standard cars.
Drivers of off-road motorcycles and recreational vehicles are reminded to follow approved safety procedures and avoid risky behaviors that could lead to fire hazards. The campaign emphasizes that safety awareness is especially important for riders who frequently travel to remote areas where emergency assistance may not be immediately available.
Digital Awareness and On-Ground Messaging
To ensure maximum reach, awareness messages are being shared across digital platforms and social media channels. These messages are designed to be clear, simple, and easy to understand, targeting both residents and tourists.
In addition, guidance screens operated by partner entities have been installed at petrol stations and along federal roads. These screens display safety reminders and instructions, ensuring that motorists receive timely information right where it matters most.
This multi-channel communication strategy helps reinforce safety messages and ensures that the campaign reaches a wide audience across the country.
Strengthening a Culture of Safety
Beyond reducing immediate risks, the campaign aims to embed a long-term culture of safety within the community. Authorities believe that consistent education and awareness can lead to lasting behavioral change among motorists.
The initiative encourages drivers to take personal responsibility for their actions and understand that safety compliance is not just a rule but a shared responsibility. When individuals follow approved safety procedures, they contribute to a safer environment for fuel station staff, fellow motorists, and the wider public.
Government Commitment to Preventive Measures
Eng Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary for Energy and Petroleum Affairs at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, emphasized that the National Winter Traffic Safety Campaign reflects the UAE’s dedication to strengthening safety standards at petrol stations through focused and effective awareness efforts.
He highlighted the importance of cooperation between government entities and national companies in delivering consistent safety messaging. According to him, unified efforts play a crucial role in protecting lives, reducing risks, and building a safer and more sustainable environment across the UAE.
Encouraging Responsible Motorist Behavior
At its core, the campaign encourages motorists to adopt responsible refueling habits and remain vigilant at all times. Small actions such as turning off engines, avoiding distractions, and following instructions can prevent serious accidents.
Authorities are confident that increased awareness, combined with visible reminders at fuel stations, will help reduce incidents related to unsafe refueling behavior. The campaign also serves as a reminder that safety is an ongoing effort, not limited to a specific season or location.
A Safer Winter for Everyone
The UAE National Winter Traffic Safety Campaign stands as another example of the country’s proactive approach to public safety. By addressing seasonal risks and focusing on everyday behaviors, the initiative aims to make winter travel safer for everyone.
As travel activity increases during the cooler months, motorists are encouraged to stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and play their part in maintaining a secure environment. Through collective awareness and responsible action, the campaign seeks to ensure that petrol stations remain safe spaces for all road users across the UAE.
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