UAE School Traffic Worsens Due to Poor Driving Habits

Sep 2, 2026

84 min

Sep 2, 2026 02:31

UAE school traffic is back: The driving habits making your commute worse, experts warn

## Increased Traffic with School Reopenings

As schools in the UAE resume, roads have become significantly busier, particularly during peak hours. This increase is largely due to the return of families from summer vacations and the high number of students traveling by private vehicles.

## Impact of Driving Behaviors

Experts highlight that certain driving habits exacerbate traffic congestion. Dr. Suzanne Accetta from the First Driving Centre points out that sudden lane changes, last-minute merging, and unnecessary braking are common issues. Additionally, using mobile phones while driving and blocking junctions contribute to traffic disruptions.

## Common Mistakes at Junctions

Jaber Al Harbi of Bin Yaber Driving Institute notes that stopping inside yellow box junctions and double-parking near schools can lead to significant delays. These actions often create bottlenecks that take time to clear, worsening the traffic situation.

## Traffic Light Issues

Drivers leaving excessive space in queues at traffic lights or being distracted by phones can slow down traffic flow. Such behaviors, repeated across multiple intersections, can add considerable time to commutes.

## Importance of Role Modeling

Thomas Edelmann from RoadSafetyUAE emphasizes the importance of parents setting a good example for their children. Calm and patient driving not only ensures safety but also teaches children proper road behavior.

## Phantom Traffic Jams

Traffic can sometimes slow down without any apparent cause, a phenomenon known as phantom traffic. This can occur when a single driver brakes unnecessarily, causing a ripple effect that slows down vehicles behind them.

## Safety and Compliance

Motorists are reminded of the importance of adhering to traffic rules, especially in school zones. This includes using child seats, obeying speed limits, and avoiding distractions while driving.

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