Authorities in Abu Dhabi are reminding motorists to exercise extra caution when driving near schools, highlighting the risks posed by distractions and heavy traffic during peak hours.

Abu Dhabi Police stressed the importance of staying fully focused on the road, particularly during morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups, when congestion and pedestrian activity increase significantly.

Drivers have been advised to reduce speed, respect pedestrian crossings and come to a complete stop when school bus stop signs are displayed. Officials warned that using mobile phones or engaging in other distractions while driving can pose serious dangers to students and other road users.

Police also emphasised that road safety is a shared responsibility, calling on parents and the wider community to support safe driving practices and help create a secure environment around schools.

Authorities added that awareness and enforcement campaigns will continue as part of broader efforts to enhance road safety and community wellbeing across the emirate.

Authorities in Dubai are stepping up efforts to improve road safety with the launch of a dedicated patrol unit to monitor the use of e-scooters, e-bikes and bicycles across the city.

The new Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit, introduced by Dubai Police in collaboration with the Roads and Transport Authority, will begin operations on May 1.

Major roads, neighbourhoods to be patrolled

Officers will patrol key cycling tracks, major roads and soft mobility zones, including Jumeirah Beach Track, Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai Water Canal, Business Bay and Dubai Marina. Monitoring will also extend to residential areas such as Al Mankhool, Al Karama, Al Hamriya, Al Raffa and Al Muraqqabat.

Fine for violations

The unit will ensure that riders follow safety regulations, including using designated tracks, wearing helmets and protective gear, and adhering to speed limits. Violators may face fines, while those caught riding recklessly or carrying passengers on e-scooters could have their vehicles impounded.

Officials say the initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance safety as the use of personal mobility devices continues to grow across the emirate.

Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei said the unit will support the goal of achieving the highest levels of traffic safety in the city.

The UAE has announced a new Dh1 billion National Industrial Resilience Fund as part of a broader push to strengthen local manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports.

The initiative, revealed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aims to boost domestic production across key sectors, enhance supply chain resilience, and accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence in industrial operations.

The move forms part of a wider strategy to reinforce the country’s industrial base while supporting long-term economic diversification.

Everyday consumer staples

A central goal of the plan is to localise the production of more than 5,000 essential goods. The first phase will focus on everyday consumer staples that can be scaled locally, including bottled water, dairy products, eggs, poultry, bread, flour, vegetable oils, and seasonal produce.

Authorities say implementation will involve close coordination between government entities, private sector partners, retailers, and digital platforms. Dedicated retail space will also be allocated to UAE-made products to improve visibility and consumer access.

Encouraging investment

In parallel, the government has approved an expansion of the National In-Country Value Programme, making it mandatory across federal entities and national companies. The policy is designed to increase demand for locally produced goods and services, while encouraging businesses to invest within the country.

Retailers and e-commerce platforms will also be encouraged to prioritise Emirati products, further supporting domestic manufacturers.

The UAE continues to position itself as a global hub for industry and innovation, with a growing focus on advanced manufacturing, food security, and technology-driven production.