Driving Through a UAE Summer: Looking After Your Vehicle and Yourself
Every year, as temperatures across the UAE begin to climb, most of us make the same adjustment. We spend a little more time indoors, drink a little more water, and become grateful for every air-conditioned space we can find.
Our vehicles, however, don't get that luxury.
Day after day they sit in direct sunlight, parked on hot asphalt, enduring temperatures that can push well beyond what many drivers experience elsewhere in the world. While modern vehicles are designed to cope with extreme conditions, the combination of heat, heavy traffic, long commutes, and constant air-conditioning demand places enormous strain on both vehicles and drivers.
The reality is that summer driving isn't just about keeping your car running—it's about staying safe.
The Heat Affects More Than Your Vehicle
Most drivers understand that high temperatures can affect batteries, cooling systems, and tyres. What is often overlooked is the effect that heat can have on the person behind the wheel.
Even mild dehydration can reduce concentration and increase reaction times. Long periods spent driving in bright sunlight can lead to fatigue, irritability, and reduced awareness. The symptoms are often subtle enough that drivers don't notice them until they make a mistake.
A simple routine of drinking water regularly, wearing suitable sunglasses, and taking breaks on longer journeys can make a significant difference.
Tyres Work Hardest During Summer
Your tyres are the only part of the vehicle in contact with the road, and during summer they are exposed to some of the harshest conditions imaginable.
Road surface temperatures can be dramatically higher than the air temperature. Combined with long journeys, heavy loads, or incorrect tyre pressures, this can increase the risk of tyre failure.
Regular inspections are essential. Look for signs of damage, uneven wear, cracking, or bulges. Check pressures when the tyres are cold and ensure they are maintained according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Many roadside incidents that occur during summer could have been prevented by a simple tyre inspection.
Don't Ignore Early Warning Signs
Vehicles often tell us when something isn't right.
Perhaps the engine temperature seems slightly higher than normal. Maybe the air conditioning isn't cooling as effectively as it used to. Sometimes there is an unusual smell, vibration, or warning light.
Drivers can become accustomed to these small changes and convince themselves that they can wait until next week.
Unfortunately, mechanical problems rarely improve with time.
Addressing a minor issue early is almost always safer, quicker, and less expensive than dealing with a breakdown on a busy road during a 45°C afternoon.
Prepare Before You Travel
A few minutes of preparation can make a significant difference.
Before setting off:
- Check tyres and tyre pressures
- Ensure coolant and other fluids are at the correct levels
- Confirm your air conditioning is functioning properly
- Carry drinking water
- Make sure your mobile phone is charged
- Plan rest stops for longer journeys
These simple actions reduce the likelihood of problems and make it easier to manage unexpected situations should they arise.