The UAE’s scorching temperatures, especially during summer, can present unique challenges for drivers. With temperatures soaring well above 40°C, ensuring both your safety and your car’s performance is crucial. From car maintenance to personal safety measures, this guide will help you navigate the UAE’s extreme heat safely and comfortably.
Prepare Your Car for the Heat
Check the Cooling System:
Your car’s cooling system works overtime in high temperatures. Ensure the coolant level is adequate and free of leaks. Schedule a radiator check to keep the engine from overheating during long drives.
Inspect the Tires:
Hot road surfaces can cause tires to expand or blow out. Regularly check tire pressure and condition. Under-inflated tires are particularly vulnerable to heat damage, so follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.
Monitor Battery Health:
Extreme heat can cause your car battery to drain faster. Test the battery’s charge and look for corrosion around the terminals to prevent sudden breakdowns.
Air Conditioning is Essential:
Driving without a properly functioning AC in the UAE is unsafe. Ensure your air conditioning system is fully serviced, with refrigerant levels topped up and filters clean.
Protect Yourself While Driving
Stay Hydrated:
Always carry a sufficient amount of water in your vehicle. Heat exposure and dehydration can cause fatigue and reduce focus, increasing the risk of accidents.
Dress Appropriately:
Wear light, loose, and breathable clothing to stay comfortable. Keep sunglasses handy to reduce glare and protect your eyes during sunny days.
Use a Sunshade:
Invest in high-quality sunshades for your windows and windshield to reduce heat buildup inside the car when parked. It also keeps the steering wheel and seats cool to the touch.
Take Breaks on Long Drives:
If you’re traveling long distances, schedule regular breaks to rest and cool down. Extreme heat can cause fatigue faster, so short breaks will keep you alert.
Avoid Engine Overheating
Your car engine is under immense pressure in extreme heat. To prevent overheating:
Watch the Temperature Gauge: If it moves into the red zone, pull over and let the engine cool before proceeding.
Avoid Overloading Your Vehicle: Heavy loads strain the engine, especially uphill or in stop-and-go traffic.
Use High-Quality Engine Oil: Opt for heat-resistant oil to improve lubrication and protect the engine during peak heat hours.
Drive Smart During Peak Heat Hours
Driving during mid-day in UAE’s summer can be challenging. Here’s how to handle it:
Plan Your Trips: Try to drive early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid peak heat hours.
Avoid Traffic Jams: Use navigation apps to find routes with less congestion, as idling in traffic can overheat the engine and strain your AC.
Keep Windows Slightly Open: If you park your car under the sun, crack the windows slightly to allow heat to escape.
Emergency Preparedness
Always be prepared for unexpected breakdowns or delays during extreme weather.
Carry an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, a flashlight, a phone charger, snacks, first aid supplies, and basic tools.
Know Your Emergency Contacts: Save roadside assistance numbers and local car service providers for quick help.
Monitor Weather Updates: Stay informed about heat waves and adjust your driving plans if temperatures are exceptionally high.
Care for Passengers, Kids, and Pets
Never Leave Anyone in a Parked Car: Even for a minute, a car parked under the sun can become dangerously hot and cause heatstroke.
Ensure Proper Ventilation for Pets: If traveling with pets, provide adequate water and airflow to keep them cool and comfortable.
Sun Protection for Kids: Use sunshades and seat covers to protect children from direct sunlight exposure.
Driving in the UAE’s extreme heat requires extra precautions to ensure your safety and the health of your vehicle. By maintaining your car, staying hydrated, and planning ahead, you can minimize the risks and enjoy safe, stress-free travel—even in the peak of summer. Stay cool, stay safe, and let the roads of the UAE remain a pleasure to navigate, no matter the temperature!
