A mild earthquake measuring 4.6 on the Richter scale struck south of Musandam on Tuesday, November 4, according to the National Seismic Network of the UAE’s National Centre of Meteorology (NCM).

The quake occurred at 4:40pm UAE time at a depth of 5km, with light tremors felt in some parts of the UAE. Authorities confirmed that the earthquake had no impact within the country.

The NCM continues to monitor seismic activity in the region, noting that minor tremors occasionally occur due to the UAE’s proximity to the Zagros mountain range, one of the most active seismic zones in the world.

Recent Seismic Activity in the Region

This is the latest in a series of minor earthquakes recorded in and around the UAE in recent months.

• In August 2024, a 2.2-magnitude earthquake was reported in Oman’s Madha region, a small Omani exclave located within Fujairah.
• On August 22, a 3.3-magnitude tremor was recorded in Fujairah’s Safad area.

While the UAE is not situated in a major earthquake zone, occasional tremors are typically low in magnitude and pose no threat to residents or infrastructure.

The passing of Gopichand Hinduja, Co-Chairman of the Hinduja Group, marks the loss of a remarkable visionary whose leadership transcended borders and industries.  The chairman of the Hinduja Group and one of Britain’s wealthiest businessmen died in London on Tuesday, November 4, at the age of 85, according to PTI. Fondly known as ‘GP’ in global business circles, Hinduja had been unwell for several weeks and passed away in a London hospital, said sources.

Under his stewardship, the Hinduja Group evolved into a diversified multinational conglomerate spanning automotive, energy, banking, infrastructure, and technology, with a growing footprint in the Gulf region, particularly in the UAE.

He recognised the UAE not just as a commercial hub, but as a key growth market and a platform for innovation and sustainability. His belief in the nation’s vision of economic diversification inspired strategic collaborations that strengthened local industries while deepening India’s enduring partnership with the Emirates.

Hinduja also acknowledged the region’s dynamic reforms and its emergence as the ‘Capital of Global Wealth,’ aligning perfectly with the Group’s guiding philosophy of ‘think local, act global.’ Under his direction, the UAE became an essential regional hub for the Hinduja Group’s business expansions across the Asia-Pacific and beyond.

One of the Group’s most promising ventures in the region is Switch Mobility, formed through the merger of Ashok Leyland’s electric vehicle division and the UK-based Optare. The company exemplifies Hinduja’s long-term vision for a greener, smarter future. In line with the UAE’s sustainability goals and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Switch Mobility had planned trial runs of its electric buses and light trucks in both countries this year, signalling a new era of sustainable mobility in the Middle East.

Hinduja’s influence was never confined to business. He believed deeply in “business with a purpose”, emphasising philanthropy, education, and community empowerment as integral parts of success. His humility, spirituality, and people-first leadership style earned him respect across continents.

As the UAE continues to evolve as a hub for innovation and sustainable development, Gopichand Hinduja’s legacy endures in every partnership, investment, and idea that bridges nations for a better tomorrow. 

Gopichand Hinduja leaves behind his spouse Sunita, two sons Sanjay and Dheeraj, and daughter Rita.

Sources: India Today, Gulf News, PTI

Abu Dhabi Police have issued a strong warning to motorists against obscuring their vehicle license plates in any way. Covering plates with bicycles, luggage racks, or other objects that make the numbers or category markings hard to read is strictly prohibited.

Under Article 27(b) of the Federal Traffic Law, offenders face a Dh400 fine. The police emphasised that number plates must remain clearly visible at all times to support law enforcement, surveillance, and traffic monitoring systems. Even unintentional obstructions, such as those caused by a bike rack or rear-mounted cargo, can result in penalties.

Authorities have intensified traffic surveillance across the capital using Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology and have warned that legal action will be taken against repeat or deliberate offenders.

Drivers are urged to ensure their license plates remain clean and unobstructed to avoid fines and help maintain safer roads throughout Abu Dhabi.

License Plate Penalties Across the UAE

Here’s how the penalties apply across the Emirates:

• Abu Dhabi: Dh400 fine for obscured or covered plates. Intentional tampering may lead to vehicle impoundment and fines of up to Dh50,000.
• Dubai: Dh400 fine for obscuring plates. Serious offences such as tampering, using counterfeit plates, or removing them can result in higher fines, black points, or vehicle impoundment. Forgery-related violations may attract fines of up to Dh20,000 and possible imprisonment.
• Sharjah: Dh400 fine for obscuring plates in accordance with federal law.
• Ajman: Dh400 fine, with enforcement consistent with federal traffic regulations.
• Ras Al Khaimah: Dh400 fine for plate obstruction; stricter penalties for tampering under Federal Decree-Law No. 14 of 2024.
• Fujairah: Dh400 fine under federal regulation.
• Umm Al Quwain: Dh400 fine, aligned with nationwide standards.

Across the UAE, federal traffic laws impose a baseline fine of Dh400 for obscuring plates, while more serious offences involving deliberate tampering or forgery attract heavier penalties, including fines, black points, impoundment, or even jail time.

Motorists are reminded that traffic monitoring has been intensified nationwide, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to road safety and accountability.