Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has announced the resumption of several major bus routes following temporary suspensions caused by heavy rainfall and unstable weather conditions across the UAE.

The authority confirmed that services are now operating again, allowing passengers to travel safely and more smoothly, although minor delays may still occur as operations gradually return to full capacity.

Several key routes have resumed, including:

• E315 between Etisalat Bus Station and Muwaileh (Sharjah)
• E101 to Abu Dhabi, now operating from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station instead of Ibn Battuta Bus Station due to earlier waterlogging
• E411 service to Ajman from Etisalat Bus Station
• Route 201 from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Al Ain

The service restoration comes after disruptions triggered by adverse weather, which led to the temporary suspension of multiple bus routes to ensure passenger safety.

RTA said all necessary safety and operational measures are in place to support a smooth return to normal services.

Advice for commuters

Passengers are encouraged to:

• Allow extra travel time
• Check updates through official RTA channels
• Follow safety guidelines while commuting

Authorities added that services will continue to stabilise over the coming days as conditions improve.

Motorists across the UAE now have easier and faster ways to replace lost vehicle number plates, thanks to updated digital services and targeted support initiatives introduced by authorities.

Several residents across the UAE reported losing their vehicle number plates following last week’s severe weather, as heavy rains and flooding swept across multiple emirates.

In Abu Dhabi, drivers who lose a single number plate can now complete the replacement process entirely online through the TAMM platform. However, those who lose both plates are required to visit a police station and file an official report before proceeding. Applicants must present a valid Emirates ID, and recovered plates must be returned to the nearest service centre.

Replacement fees vary depending on the type and number of plates. Costs range from Dh35 for a single short plate to Dh70 for two long plates, while special and identity plates are priced significantly higher. Once the application is submitted and payment is completed, new plates are typically issued within two days. Authorities have also limited single plate replacement requests to once per month unless handled directly at a service centre.

Meanwhile, in Dubai, residents can quickly report lost or found number plates using a dedicated mobile app available on both iOS and Android devices. The app also allows users to request a Lost Certificate, which can be used for official purposes with other entities. This digital approach ensures convenience, particularly during adverse weather conditions.

The authorities are issuing “To Whom It May Concern” certificates for vehicles affected by adverse weather conditions across the UAE. The service allows customers to apply for the certificate through the official website or the Dubai Police smart application.

In Sharjah, a temporary initiative has been launched to support vulnerable residents affected by recent weather disruptions. Elderly individuals and people with disabilities can request free replacement and delivery of lost number plates by contacting the police call centre. The initiative runs for three days, starting March 29 and eliminates the need for in-person visits.

These measures reflect a broader push across the UAE to enhance public services, improve accessibility, and reduce the time and effort required for essential administrative procedures.

If your food or grocery delivery is taking longer than usual, the reason lies in the severe weather currently sweeping across the city.

With heavy rains, strong winds, and thunderstorms hitting Dubai, Dubai Police has advised delivery riders to temporarily halt services during unsafe conditions, putting safety ahead of speed.

Safety first, deliveries later

Authorities have urged riders to avoid travelling during intense rainfall, especially in:

• Flooded streets
• Low-visibility conditions
• Areas prone to water accumulation

This means many delivery services may be paused or significantly delayed, particularly during peak rainfall hours.

Why delays are necessary

Officials warn that riding in such conditions can be dangerous. Risks include:

• Slippery roads and skidding
• Poor visibility due to heavy rain
• Waterlogged streets that can stall bikes

To reduce accidents, riders are being encouraged to wait until conditions improve before resuming deliveries.

Even taxis are running late

Taxi drivers have also been told to drive cautiously and avoid flooded areas, which could slow overall traffic movement across the city, adding to delays.

What you should expect

• Longer wait times for food and grocery orders
• Temporary service interruptions in some areas
• Limited rider availability during storms

What you can do

• Plan ahead and order earlier if possible
• Expect delays and track orders in real time
• Avoid placing urgent orders during peak storms