UAE motorists should prepare for temporary disruptions as infrastructure works for the Etihad Rail project continue.

Authorities have announced that the exit from Maleha Road towards Emirates Road will be closed every weekend starting from 11pm on Saturday, April 4, until 5am on Monday, June 1. The closure is part of ongoing construction efforts tied to the UAE’s ambitious national railway network.

Drivers who frequently use this route are advised to plan and consider alternative roads to avoid delays, especially during late-night and early-morning hours.

The Etihad Rail project is set to transform transportation across the UAE by linking major cities, industrial zones, and ports. In the future, it will also connect the country to other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations, strengthening regional mobility and trade.

In a recent emergency response, Etihad Rail operated special passenger services to help residents and citizens travel when flights were suspended due to regional airspace closures. This demonstrated the railway’s potential as a reliable alternative transport option during crises.

As rainy weather creates ideal conditions for mosquitoes, the authorities in Sharjah and Ajman have issued fresh guidelines to help residents prevent mosquito breeding and protect public health.

The main problem: Standing water

Authorities stressed that puddles and stagnant water are the biggest contributors to mosquito spread. Even small amounts, like water collected in containers, can quickly turn into breeding grounds.

Residents are being urged to:

Avoid contact with stagnant water
Regularly inspect homes and surroundings
Remove any standing water immediately
Keep drainage systems clean and functional

Don’t overlook gardens and green spaces

Your garden could be part of the problem if not maintained properly. The municipality recommends:

• Trimming trees and dense shrubs
• Avoiding overwatering plants
• Keeping swimming pools clean and covered

Humid, shaded areas with thick vegetation are perfect spots for mosquitoes to thrive.

Common breeding hotspots

Watch out for everyday items that can collect water:

• Flower pots
• Old tyres
• Abandoned containers
• Waste and debris

Even something as small as a bottle cap can hold enough water for mosquitoes to multiply.

Free pest control support

To support residents, the municipality is offering a free pest control service. You can request assistance via:

• Official website
• Call centre: 993

Extra Safety Measures

Authorities also highlighted:

• Covering water tanks
• Preventing water buildup at construction sites
• Following general cleanliness and safety standards

Community effort matters

The municipality emphasised that controlling mosquito spread is a shared responsibility. Small actions by residents can make a big difference in keeping neighbourhoods safe and healthy.

Good news for residents, one of the longest breaks of the year is just around the corner, as the UAE gears up for Arafat Day and Eid Al Adha in May.

When is the holiday?

• Arafat Day is expected on Tuesday, May 26.
• Eid Al Adha will likely run from Wednesday, May 27, to Friday, May 29.

Since Arafat Day itself is a public holiday, many residents could enjoy a bumper long weekend, up to six days off when combined with the weekend.

What is Arafat Day?

Arafat Day is one of the most significant days in the Islamic calendar. It falls on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, just before Eid Al Adha, and marks the day when pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat during Hajj.

For Muslims, it’s a day of:

• Fasting (highly recommended for those not performing Hajj)
• Prayer and reflection
• Charity and seeking forgiveness

Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or just some well-earned rest, this holiday stretch is one of the best opportunities in the year to unwind.

Just remember, official dates depend on moon sighting, so they may shift slightly.