As digital conversations continue to shape public opinion and daily life, the Abu Dhabi Police have issued a strong reminder to residents: Verify before you share.

The authority has called on the community to rely on credible news sources and avoid spreading rumours or misinformation, especially on social media platforms, warning that such actions can have real-world consequences and go against the values of responsible citizenship.

A Community Responsibility

In their advisory, the police stressed that every member of society plays a key role in maintaining public order and social harmony. Sharing unverified news, even unintentionally, can mislead others and spark unnecessary fear or confusion.

“Disseminating false information contradicts the values of positive citizenship and the social responsibility we all share,” the police said in a statement, urging the public to think critically before passing along content online.

The Harm of Misinformation

Authorities noted that rumours, particularly when circulated widely on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), can disrupt public safety, damage reputations, and contribute to mistrust in official communication.

To curb the spread of such content, the public is being encouraged to rely on trusted news outlets and verified government platforms for information.

Legal Consequences and Public Awareness

The warning also serves as a reminder of the legal implications under UAE law, which penalises the spread of fake news and false information that threatens national security or public interest.

Abu Dhabi Police continue to run awareness campaigns to educate residents on responsible digital behaviour, urging people to be part of the solution in the fight against misinformation.

“Accuracy saves lives,” the statement added.

“Let’s work together to ensure that our digital spaces remain safe, honest, and constructive for all.”

(Source: GN)

In a move aimed at improving road safety and easing the movement of heavy vehicles, Abu Dhabi Mobility has announced the removal of the 120kmph minimum speed limit on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Road (E311), one of the Emirate’s key intercity highways.

The change, which takes immediate effect, is part of Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to create a more flexible and inclusive traffic system, particularly for large transport vehicles that struggle to maintain higher speeds on long-haul routes.

Making Roads Safer and Smarter

Previously, motorists on E311 were required to maintain a minimum speed of 120kmph in designated lanes, a policy introduced to ensure consistent traffic flow and reduce lane-switching on high-speed roads. While the regulation was intended to streamline traffic, it posed challenges for certain vehicle categories, especially heavy trucks and older vehicles unable to sustain such speeds safely.

“The lifting of the minimum speed limit reflects a strategic shift toward enhancing road safety while accommodating the needs of all types of road users,” Abu Dhabi Mobility said in its announcement on Monday.

Officials stressed that the adjustment is expected to reduce pressure on drivers of heavy trucks and larger vehicles, many of whom faced difficulties adhering to the minimum speed, particularly when navigating inclines, exits, or merging with faster-moving traffic.

Focus on Heavy Vehicle Mobility

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Road is a vital artery that connects Abu Dhabi to the northern emirates, supporting both daily commuters and long-distance freight movement. The route is heavily used by cargo trucks, making it essential for the capital’s logistics and supply chain operations.

Transport experts say the relaxed speed rule will offer heavy vehicle drivers more leeway, enabling them to travel at safer, more manageable speeds without fear of fines or disrupting the flow of traffic.

Maximum Speed Remains Unchanged

While the minimum speed requirement has been scrapped, the maximum speed limit on E311 remains unchanged. Drivers are still expected to follow posted limits, which vary depending on the section of the road and vehicle type. Enforcement of the speed cap will continue through smart monitoring systems and traffic patrols.

Motorists must remain vigilant

The decision is also aligned with Abu Dhabi’s Vision Zero strategy, an ambitious goal to eliminate road fatalities through smarter road design, improved enforcement, and inclusive mobility solutions.

Motorists are advised to remain vigilant, follow all traffic signs, and exercise caution—particularly during peak hours and in zones where multiple vehicle types share lanes.

Pakistani expatriates in the UAE can now enjoy enhanced digital security when managing their national identity documents, thanks to a new biometric verification feature introduced in the Pak ID mobile application by Pakistan’s National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).

The app, widely used by overseas Pakistanis to apply for Smart National Identity Cards and other official documents, now requires biometric authentication when users sign in from a new device. NADRA officials say the update is part of a broader initiative to safeguard personal data and prevent identity fraud.

Seamless ID Management – Now with Biometric Protection

The Pak ID app has been a game-changer for Pakistani citizens, especially for those living abroad. It allows users to apply for various types of identity cards and certificates, including the Smart National ID Card for Overseas Pakistanis, directly from their smartphones—eliminating the need for in-person visits to NADRA service centres.

With the latest upgrade, users will be prompted for biometric verification—such as a fingerprint scan—if they attempt to log in from a different device. NADRA has confirmed that this added security measure is designed to offer users an additional layer of protection.

“Biometric verification is now required when signing in from a new device,” the authority announced, adding that the move aims to enhance digital safety, especially for overseas users whose accounts may be more vulnerable to misuse.

Protecting User Data and Preventing Identity Theft

By integrating biometric security into the login process, NADRA aims to protect user accounts from unauthorised access, data breaches, and potential identity theft.

“Designed to protect citizens’ information, this new security feature helps prevent unauthorised access, identity theft, and misuse of Pak ID accounts,” NADRA said in a statement.

For the UAE’s large Pakistani expatriate community, the update comes as welcome news. Many rely on the Pak ID app to renew or apply for national ID documents, often without the convenience of visiting consular offices. The biometric feature ensures that their sensitive information is more secure than before.