Abu Dhabi Police Issue Urgent Warning to Drivers as New School Term Begins

As thousands of students across the UAE return to school buses this week for the start of the new academic year, Abu Dhabi Police have issued a fresh reminder to motorists to strictly follow school bus regulations to ensure children's safety.

Brig Gen Suhail Siyah Al Mazrouei, Director of the Traffic and Security Patrols Department in Abu Dhabi, emphasized that pupil safety is a shared responsibility requiring the integration of roles among families, schools, and road users. Speaking on social media on Monday, he called on drivers to increase their vigilance near schools, reduce speeds, adhere to road signs, and yield to students at pedestrian crossings.

With the new term underway, roads near schools and residential neighborhoods are expected to experience heavier traffic during early morning and afternoon pick-up and drop-off times. Authorities have stressed that motorists must come to a complete stop whenever a school bus extends its side "stop" sign and maintain a distance of at least five metres from the vehicle. Failure to stop for the activated signal carries a penalty of a Dh1,000 fine and 10 black points on the driver's licence.

School zones feature reduced speed limits, and drivers must exercise caution even on seemingly clear roads to prevent accidents involving children unexpectedly crossing between vehicles. Speeding violations in these areas result in fines ranging from Dh300 to Dh3,000. Additionally, motorists traveling behind a bus or approaching from the opposite direction on a two-way road without a physical barrier must stop completely when flashing lights or the stop sign are activated.

Parents and students are advised to arrive at designated pick-up points at least five minutes early and wait safely back from the kerb until the bus stops completely and doors open. Students must cross only in front of the bus when signaled by the driver or attendant, always wear seat belts, and keep aisles clear.

Bus drivers are required to strictly obey speed limits, avoid sudden maneuvers, conduct headcounts at every stop, and ensure all safety equipment, including stop-arm signals and emergency exits, is fully functional. Transport operators must ensure buses are painted yellow, feature proper air conditioning and GPS, and are staffed by trained attendants.