If you’ve received a random message asking you to pay a parking fine, don’t click anything just yet.

Dubai residents are being warned about a new wave of scam messages targeting drivers with fake payment links, and it’s catching people off guard.

According to Parkin, fraudsters are sending texts that look legit—claiming you have outstanding parking payments and urging you to pay immediately.

Here’s the catch
These messages include unverified links designed to steal your personal or financial information.

What the warning says
• Don’t click on unfamiliar links
• Always verify payment requests
• Only use official Parkin channels for payments

Earlier this year, similar scams targeted UAE residents with fake toll messages pretending to be from Abu Dhabi’s DARB system, some even threatening fines to pressure users into paying fast.

In one case, a message claimed a small pending fee, but warned of a Dh100 fine if not paid immediately 

How to spot the scam
Watch out for these red flags:
• Messages from international or unknown numbers
• Generic greetings like “Dear Customer”
• Links that look official, but aren’t
• Urgent threats pushing immediate payment

Authorities, including Ras Al Khaimah Police and the UAE Cybersecurity Council, have repeatedly warned residents not to engage with such messages.

The golden rule
Real toll or parking operators in the UAE don’t ask for payments via random SMS links, and they won’t pressure you with threats.

If it feels suspicious, it probably is. Pause, verify, and protect your information. Because one wrong click could cost you more than just a parking fine.

Dubai Police are cracking down hard after several drivers were caught performing dangerous stunts during recent rains, and it’s going to cost them big.

According to officials, multiple motorists were seen drifting and swerving in areas like Al Ruwayyah and Lahbab, turning wet roads into high-risk zones.

The footage (click link below), shared by Dubai Police, shows reckless driving that could have easily led to serious accidents.

What happened next
• Vehicles were impounded
• Drivers were referred for legal action
• Patrols have been stepped up across Dubai

And here’s the part that’s hitting wallets hard. To get their cars back, violators may have to pay up to Dh50,000.

Why is this serious
Brigadier Jumaa Salem bin Suwaidan warned that rain makes roads even more dangerous, and these stunts don’t just risk the driver’s life, but everyone else on the road.

Dubai Police are asking for your help
Residents can report reckless drivers using the Police Eye app or by calling 901.

What might look like fun in the rain can quickly turn into a costly and dangerous mistake.

If you’re driving around Abu Dhabi this weekend, you might want to plan, because several key roads are set to close.

The Run for the Nation 5km race is taking over Wahat Al Karama this Saturday, bringing together the community for a morning of fitness and fun.

But it also means temporary traffic disruptions you should know about.

Here’s what’s happening
Organised by Abu Dhabi Sports Council in partnership with the Zayed Charity Run, the event kicks off at 8am, and it’s completely free to join.

To keep runners safe, road closures will be in place from 5am to 10am around the area.
There are additional lane closures on E20 due to ongoing infrastructure works:

• Right lane towards Abu Dhabi closed from April 17 (2pm)- April 20 (5am)
• Entry & exit from Al Fursan Street closed from April 18-April 19

Expect delays around Al Fursan Street and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20).

What should motorists do
• Leave earlier than usual
• Follow diversion signs
• Avoid the area if possible during peak hours

While traffic may slow things down, the event is all about community, fitness, and bringing people together, a big win for Abu Dhabi’s active lifestyle push.

So whether you’re running or just commuting, be ready, plan smart, and stay moving.