People should use designated parking spaces near mosques on Fridays
If you’re driving to Friday prayers this week, it might be worth leaving home a few minutes earlier to avoid this Abu Dhabi traffic fine.
Abu Dhabi Police have issued a fresh reminder for motorists to use designated parking spaces around mosques and avoid stopping in areas that block traffic or prevent other vehicles from moving.
While it can be tempting to squeeze into the nearest available space when parking is limited, doing so could leave you with an AED 500 fine.
The warning comes as many mosques experience a surge in visitors on Fridays, leading some drivers to park along main roads, double park or block entrances and exits to parking areas.
According to Abu Dhabi Police, these types of parking violations don’t just cause congestion, they can also create safety hazards for pedestrians, emergency vehicles and other road users trying to enter or leave the area.
Under the UAE Federal Traffic Law, motorists who park behind another vehicle and prevent it from moving can receive an AED 500 fine. The same penalty also applies to vehicles that are parked improperly or in unauthorised locations.
While finding a space close to the mosque may seem convenient, police are encouraging drivers to allow extra travel time and use official parking areas, even if it means a slightly longer walk.
The advice is particularly important at larger mosques where attendance is highest, and nearby roads can quickly become congested before prayer begins.
A little planning can help avoid delays, reduce traffic around places of worship and save motorists from an unnecessary fine.
So before you head out this Friday, factor in a few extra minutes, park legally and help keep traffic flowing safely for everyone.
