Motorists in Dubai are being urged to think twice before hitting the horn, as the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police step up efforts to tackle noise pollution and improve road discipline across the emirate.

Authorities stressed that vehicle horns are intended strictly as a safety tool, not for frustration, impatience, or unnecessary noise.

When is honking actually allowed?

According to officials, horns should only be used in situations such as:

• Warning road users of immediate danger
• Alerting distracted drivers or pedestrians
• Responding to emergencies inside the vehicle

Any use beyond these situations is considered improper and contributes to unnecessary disturbance, especially near residential communities, schools, and hospitals.

The penalty could surprise drivers

In a previous warning shared on X, Dubai Police confirmed that motorists caught misusing vehicle horns may face:

• Dh400 fine
• Four black points on their driving record

The move forms part of wider efforts to create safer, quieter, and more respectful roads throughout Dubai.

More than just noise

Officials say excessive honking doesn’t just annoy residents, it also affects traffic discipline and public comfort, particularly in densely populated areas.

The latest awareness campaign is aimed at encouraging more responsible driving behaviour as Dubai continues pushing for smarter and safer mobility standards.

So next time traffic gets frustrating, authorities are making one thing clear: your horn is for safety—not stress relief.

UAE authorities announced on Sunday evening that the Dhu Al Hijjah moon was successfully sighted through reports submitted by specialised committees, astronomers, and observatories operating across the country using advanced space and astronomy technologies.

As a result, Monday, May 18, has been declared the first day of Dhu Al Hijjah 1447 AH.

The announcement officially sets the timeline for the upcoming Hajj season and the celebration of Eid Al Adha across the country.

Muslims around the world observe Dhu Al Hijjah as one of the holiest months in Islam, with Eid Al Adha expected to follow after the annual pilgrimage rituals.

 Advanced moon-sighting system

Officials said the confirmation was made after reviewing data from experts and astronomical centres working under a coordinated national system, highlighting the UAE’s growing use of technology in religious observations.

Residents await holiday details

With the moon sighting now confirmed, attention is turning to the official Eid Al Adha holiday announcement, which is expected to bring an extended break for residents across the UAE.

For many families, the announcement signals the start of travel plans, gatherings, and preparations for one of the year’s biggest celebrations.

Dubai has just unveiled another futuristic landmard, and this one could redefine sustainable government buildings worldwide.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, officially inaugurated Al Sheraa, the new headquarters of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) in Al Jaddaf.

Mind-blowing  numbers

Dubbed the tallest, largest, and smartest energy-positive government building in the world, Al Sheraa is designed to produce more energy than it consumes, making it a major milestone in Dubai’s sustainability journey.

The building features:
• 110,000 smart sensors
• 1,500+ wireless access points
• 3,200 connected smart devices
• Over 1.9 million automated control commands daily
• Solar energy systems generating up to 5 MW of electricity 

The building combines cutting-edge AI, automation, and renewable energy technologies to create a next-generation workspace focused on efficiency and sustainability.

Calling it a “global architectural icon,” Sheikh Mohammed said the project reflects Dubai’s leadership in innovation, smart technology, and green energy.

From AI-powered systems to solar-powered operations, Dubai is once again showing the world what the cities of the future could look like