Autodealer UAE

Don't just leave your vehicle unattended

Dubai: If you're thinking of taking a holiday this summer for more than a couple of days, be aware that your car could be in danger.

If you park in any public space, including designated road parking spaces or sandy areas, you could return to find your vehicle has been removed.

A vehicle left in an "abandoned" state, includes those that are not roadworthy, does not have valid registration or has been unused in a public space for more than 30 days.

15-day notice

"Abandoned" vehicles are confiscated, taken to the Dubai Municipality scrap yard and are released on payment of a fine. Cars are also auctioned off if they are not claimed within six months. Even if your car is outside your house, in a designated parking space, it could be towed if it's dirty or deemed unroadworthy.

A removal sticker will be attached and if the car is not claimed within 15 days, it will be removed.

To avoid this problem, make sure your car is kept in a place that does not obscure other drivers, such as a private driveway. If you do need to keep the car on a road, arrange for someone to clean the car, or to keep an eye on it while you are away.

However, cars are not allowed to be left covered with cloth or plastic covers.

Tips to remember

- Cars should not be parked on the road (even in designated spaces) or public spaces (for example sandy areas) for more than 30 days. Private parking should be used.

- If you are going to be leaving your car for a long period of time, ask someone to wash it for you, otherwise it could be mistaken for an "abandoned" car and towed by Dubai Municipality.

- Dubai International Airport has a long-term car park (Car Park B). Charges are Dh5 per hour, Dh120 a day from day 1 to day 10 or Dh75 a day from day 11 to day 90.

- A fine of Dh1,000 will be imposed if the parking exceeds 90 days at the Airport.