Al Ain Welcome Guide 2024 August Edition by TheSourceOnlineME

WELCOME GUIDE AL AIN

About this Guide

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

This guide is designed as a helpful resource to find products and services as well as general information on the city of Al Ain.

The information has been divided into section for easy reference which are marked by the coloured tabs on the side of the pages.

Each month, more information will be added so be sure to check back regularly for updates.

SYMBOLS USED IN THIS GUIDE

Tips and advice that may be helpful

Video links on subjects mentioned in the guide

Important must know information

Image information and/or location

AL AIN

Cover images credit Mariam Al Dhaheri @mo_aldhaheri

https://www.

DISCLAIMER

While every effort has been made to ensure information contained herein in correct, we accept no responsibility for any errors or omissions either express or implied and we advise all readers to check with the various government entities regarding procedures.

instagram.com/ thesourceonlineme No part of this publication or content, thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of The Al Ain Welcome Guide, published by FSE, in writing. The Al Ain Welcome Guide and FSE accept no responsibility, however caused, for errors or omissions contained in this publication. Any articles and/or images included in this publication and/or views and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The Al Ain Welcome Guide and FSE, and any of its affiliates, but remain solely those of the author(s). Such publications have been included for general reference and the purpose of fair review.

HILLI FUN CITY

Welcome to Al Ain

Congratulations! You have chosen one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in the United Arab Emirates to call home. Al Ain, known as the "Garden City," offers a high quality of life with its lush greenery, historic sites, and vibrant community. Nestled between Abu Dhabi and Oman, Al Ain provides a safe, peaceful, and for those who make it so, lively environment that’s perfect for families, professionals, and adventurers alike.

Whether your move was from another part of the UAE or from abroad, relocating to a new city can be challenging. It’s one of the top five most stressful life events, taking you out of your comfort zone and away from the familiar. But rest assured, you’re not alone in this journey, and we have no doubt that Al Ain will be a welcoming community making your time here some of your fondest memories.

The Al Ain Welcome Guide is designed to help you and your family navigate your new city and get acquainted with all that Al Ain has to offer. The businesses and service providers featured in this guide are eager to welcome you and help you feel comfortable in your new surroundings.

We’re excited to have you here.

Welcome to Al Ain. Welcome home!

EDITOR AL AIN WELCOME GUIDE

Information

Tips for Settling In

READ THIS GUIDE

Seems simple enough :-) As a starting point, it is advisable to read through the information section of this guide to familiarize yourself with laws and customs applicable to the city. There are also lots of useful tips on how to manage things here and which apps to use that could save you time and money in the long run.

Find Local Healthcare Providers:

Identify a local physician, dentist, and eye doctor in Al Ain. Schedule an appointment with them and contact your previous medical providers to transfer your medical records to your new doctors if need be.

Recycling:

Be environmentally conscious by recycling your moving boxes. In Al Ain, you can drop off your recyclables at local waste management facilities. For more details on recycling centers see the recycling section of this guide.

Insurance Review:

Review your insurance policies, including health, homeowner’s, and vehicle insurance. Ensure you have adequate coverage.

Home Systems Check:

Familiarize yourself with your new home by locating the fuse box, water main, and and cooling systems. Learn how to operate each.

Explore Local Activities:

Contact the Al Ain Sports and Cultural Clubs to find out about sports teams and activities for you and your family.

Library:

Visit the Zayed Central Library to get a library card for each family member. Ask about the library’s digital media services for accessing e-books, music, and movies. For more information see the library section in this guide.

School Registration:

Register your children at their new school in Al Ain. If possible, volunteer at the school to connect with other parents and get involved in the community.

Home Maintenance:

Check your home’s exterior, clear drains of sand and debris, and ensure proper drainage. Regularly inspect and change air filters in your AC unit as needed. If you have a water filter fitted on your taps, make sure they are cleaned as required.

Meet Neighbors:

Introduce yourself to your new neighbours and build a friendly rapport with those in your community.

Discover Al Ain:

Spend a day exploring Al Ain as a tourist. Visit the Al Ain Tourist Information Center for local attraction details and a guide to the city’s highlights.

Pet Care:

If you have pets, find a local veterinarian in Al Ain and transfer your pet’s medical records. Learn about pet care in this region to ensure your pet’s well-being.

Care should be taken when walking pets in the heat. Their feet can blister easily on hot tar so it is best to walk them in cooler times early morning or evening.

The fastest way to settle into your new home is to embrace your new city, its customs and its way of doing things. Accepting what is, even if it is different to the way you are used to doing things in your home country is key.

Remember: you chose to come on this new adventure, so enjoy it with an open mind for all it has to offer. Expecting things to be as they are in your home country is pointless, and will only lead to frustration. Try new things, meet new people, travel, explore and above all just enjoy your time in this interesting part of the world.

Drivers Licence

Getting your UAE drivers licence should be a top priority if you intend to drive any type of vehicle while resident in the UAE. The process is relatively simple and Abu Dhabi Police’s traffic and licensing department has approved driving licences from 44 countries plus GCC countries that are eligible to obtain a UAE drivers licence directly.

These countries include

• Albania

• Australia

• Austria

• Belgium

• Bulgaria

• Canada

• China

• Cyprus

• Denmark

• Estonia

• Finland

• France

• GCC countries

• Germany

• Greece

• Hong Kong

• Hungary

• Iceland

• Ireland

• Italy

• Japan

• Latvia

• Lithuania

• Luxembourg

• Malta

• Montenegro

• Netherlands

• New Zealand

• Norway

• Poland

• Portugal

• Romania

• Serbia

• Singapore

• Slovakia

• Slovenia

• South Africa

• South Korea

• Spain

• Sweden

• Switzerland

• Turkey

• Ukraine

• United Kingdom

• United States

Like all other Abu Dhabi Government services, managing your drivers licence can be done through the TAMM platform. tamm. abudhabi

**To access the service you must be an Abu Dhabi Resident**

Required Documents:

• Eye test from accredited centre

• Valid original foreign licence

• Legal Arabic translation of foreign licence see list of approved translators here:

https://www.tamm.abudhabi/wb/adp/search-nearby-service-providers/

• Emirates ID

• Passport copy

• Personal photos (two copies)

Step 1: Start the application online

1. To apply for any service on tamm.abudhabi, you must log in using your UAE PASS.

2. Visit this link:

https://www.tamm.abudhabi/en/life-events/individual/DriveTransport/manage-driving-licence/requesttoreplaceadrivinglicenceissuedfromanothercountry and click on ‘start’

3. Enter the country that has issued your licence and your driving licence number.

4. Upload, the Arabic translated version of your driving licence.

5. Pay the fees through the payment channel.

Step 2: Undergo an eye test

Once, you have submitted the application, undergo an eye test. This must be done by an accredited optical store. In Al Ain, you can visit Yateem Optical - Branches are located at Al Ain Mall contact: 03-7510025 and Khalifa Street in Al Ain Town Centre.

Step 3: Get your licence issued

You would then need to visit the traffic licensing department of Abu Dhabi Police, with your reference number from tamm.abudhabi. Your new UAE driving licence will then be issued by Abu Dhabi Police.

Cost

Eye test – AED 100 Driving licence – AED 600 Translation - AED 150

Payments through the TAMM app require a credit or debit card. Should you not yet have a bank account set up, you can obtain a pre paid credit card from Al Ansari exchange to allow you to pay online. https://alansariexchange.com/service/travel-card/ (requires valid Emirates ID)

Those who have a foreign licence but are not on the list of accredited countries need not despair. They are given one chance to undergo a knowledge test and road test and if they pass on the first, they will receive a UAE licence. If they fail, however, they will have to undergo at least eight lessons (advanced level training) at a driving school and then come back for the test.

Guidance in case of an Accident

• Do not move a victim unless the situation demands so.

• Be careful not to aggravate the injury. For example, moving a victim can cause more harm if they have a spinal or neck injury or are bleeding excessively.

• If anyone is hurt and requires an ambulance, dial 999 and an operator will assist you.

• Only administer first aid if you are qualified to do so.

• Notify the police immediately by calling 999, and be honest when providing accident details.

• If in an accident where both vehicles can be driven, they should be moved to the side of the road to avoid holding up traffic.

• If the accident is on the highway, drive until you can pull completely off the highway and not just onto the hard shoulder. This will avoid any further possible collisions. AD police will send someone to your safe location. Do not wait in your car, if your car is in the road. Keep a safe distance of at least 15m from your vehicle making sure you are safe from potential harm.

• The traffic police will arrive, evaluate the crash and fill out the Accident Form.

• A copy of the Accident Form will be given to both individuals involved in the crash. You will need to take the form to your insurance company to proceed with vehicle repair.

Guidance in Case of Vehicle Breakdown

Road Service Patrol is a new service launched by the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport in coordination with Abu Dhabi Police. The service is free of charge and can be reached 24 hours a day on the toll free number 999. This service includes following:

• Towing cars in case of auto failure from the main road and moving them to safer locations to ensure the safety of drivers and the smooth flow of traffic.

• Offering services such as changing tyres, identifying flat battery, jumpstarting and topping up fuel and coolant if needed, to enable vehicles to reach the closest petrol station in the vicinity.

• Providing first aid to accident victims and assisting the police and other related parties involved.

In case your vehicle breaks down you must:

• Move the vehicle off the road to make sure your vehicle is not a hazard to other road users.

• Turn on hazard lights to warn approaching drivers.

• Get out of the vehicle and stand well away from the carriageway.

• If it is dark, keep your parking lights/side lights on Call 999 to access Road Service Petrol.

• You must use either spotlights or a three dimensional warning triangle when parking at night, if the road is not equipped with streetlights or the visibility is poor (Article 64, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995).

Reference: The Official Road User Code of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi

Traffic Rules

Licence Validity

For those who are 21 years of age and above: Initially, the driver’s licence is valid for 2 years for citizens, GCC nationals and other nationalities After renewal, the driver’s licence is valid for 10 years for citizens and GCC nationals and for 5 years for other nationalities.

For those below 21 years of age: Initially, the driver’s licence is valid for one year for citizens, GCC nationals and other nationalities.

Mandatory seat belts for all

All passengers in a car are required to wear seat belts including those sitting in the rear seat, failing which the driver of the vehicle will be fined AED 400 and slapped with four black points.

Children up to four years of age must be provided with a child safety seat. Violators will be fined AED 400 and slapped with four black points. The front seat passenger should also be at least 145 cm tall and not younger than 10 years old.

Reckless driving

Reckless driving will incur a fine of AED 2,000, 23 black points and impounding of the vehicle for a period of 60 days. The same punishment and fine will apply to drivers who endanger the lives of others. Other violations cover: blocking traffic, jumping red signals, sudden swerving and driving without a number plate.

Traffic signals

Motorcycle riders and motorists who ignore traffic lights will be fined AED 1, 000 and incur a penalty of 12 points and their vehicles will be seized for a month.

Distractions

Using phones while driving or any other distractions will be attract AED 800 fine and four black points.

Speeding

Those exceeding the speed limit by 80 kmph will be fined AED 3,000, slapped with 23 black points and have their car impounded for 60 days.

Please note - the speed shown on traffic signs in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi are the maximum allowed speed. So if the sign says 60km, travelling at 61km will attract a fine. The maximum allowed speed between Al Ain and Abu Dhabi is 160km but you should take care to heed the traffic signs for when the speed limit changes.

Taking videos or pictures of accidents for distribution either privately or on social media is not allowed.

Common Fines

Driving below the minimum speed limit (if any) Fine: AED400

Driving without vehicle number plates out

Fine: AED3,000

Black points 23

Vehicle confiscation 90 days

Driving under the influence

Drivers caught under the influence of drugs and or alcohol will have their licence suspended for one year, starting from the day of the verdict. Court will decide the fine and/or jail term. Please note the UAE has a zero tolerance policy so one glass is one too many.

Sudden swerving Fine: AED1,000

Black points 4

Crossing a red light

Fine: AED1,000

Black points 12

Vehicle confiscation 30 days

Not leaving a safe distance when driving behind other vehicles

Fine: AED400

Black points 4

Overtaking from the road shoulder

Fine: AED1,000

Black points 6

Not giving way to emergency vehicles/police/official convoy

Fine: AED1,000

Black points 6

Parking on pavements

Fine: AED400

Parking in des. special needs/in front of fire hydrants

Fine AED1,000

Black points 6

Obstructing authorities in regulating traffic or rescue during emergencies

Fine: AED1,000

Black points 4

Vehicle confiscation 60 days

Fine: AED500

Black points 4

Driving with an expired driving license/registration

Vehicle confiscation for 7 days (This applies for expired registration if expired for more than 3 months)

Not carrying a driver’s license/vehicle registration

Fine: AED400

Driving a vehicle without insurance Fine: AED500

Black points 4

Vehicle confiscation 7 days

Not giving way to pedestrians at pedestrian crossings Fine: AED500

Black points 6

Causing major accidents or injuries

Fine: Decided by the court

Black points: 23

Vehicle confiscation 30 days

Causing someone’s death

Fine: Decided by the court

Black points: 23

Vehicle confiscation 60 days

Traffic Fine Payments

Should you be unlucky enough to receive a traffic fine, you will be notified by sms. You can check the full details on the AD police or TAMM apps.

Ways to pay your traffic fine in Abu Dhabi

In case you incur traffic fines, you have several options for a smooth payment experience.

Method 1: Via the Abu Dhabi Police website or mobile application

Visit their website, click on “Our Services,” then “Traffic Fines Payment.” You will be redirected to the TAMM website (more on this in the next method).

If you want to pay via the app, download the mobile app first and sign in. If you’re not registered yet, you can create one by entering your Emirates ID number, mobile number and pertinent vehicle information. Once you’re on the homepage, you can view your total fines. Select your fines and tap the “Pay Now” button to settle your penalties via debit or credit card. You will get a notification and receipt once the transaction is complete.

Method 2: Via the TAMM website or mobile app “Tamm” in Arabic is a word that means “consider it done.” Abu Dhabi exemplifies that meaning in its TAMM app, a unified digital ecosystem where you can access more than 700 public and private sector services. One of the things you can do here is to pay traffic fines.

If you’re paying via their website, sign in or sign up, click on the “Vehicle and Transportation” link, then the “Traffic Violations and Fines” tab. Input your Emirates ID and vehicle registration number before paying. You can pay via debit card, credit card or E-dirham.

If you’re settling fines via their mobile app, you must first have the app on your phone. Tap “Payments” on the homepage, then select “Traffic Fines Payment.” Sign in or register with your UAE Pass and select the fine you will pay. Next, input debit or credit card details. You will receive a receipt and notification upon successful payment.

Method 3: Via the UAE Ministry of Interior (MOI) website or mobile application

On the website, select “E-services,” then “Traffic and Licensing.” Proceed to the “Payment of Traffic Fines” section. Sign in with your UAE Pass or sign up to view outstanding fines. Select a fine to settle and click on the “Pay Fines” button.

If you want to pay via the MOI app instead, download it first, tap “Traffic Fines Payment” and sign in with your UAE Pass (Create an account if you don’t have one yet). Once signed in, use your Emirates ID to view your fines. As with other mobile app methods, you can select the fine and pay via the app by simply entering your debit or credit card details. You will also get a receipt.

Method 4: In-person payment options

You can settle fines at designated centers if you prefer to pay in person. These include self-payment kiosks at TAMM Customer Service Centers and ADNOC petrol stations. Alternatively, you can visit any of Abu Dhabi Police Traffic Department Customer Service Centers.

Fines must be settled in full before you will be allowed to renew your annual vehicle licence.

It is best to pay fines as soon as possible because often there is a prompt payment discount.

Using your phone while driving carries a fine of AED 800 and 4 black points

Radars can detect multiple infractions so please stick to the rules to avoid fines.

School Buses

When a school bus stops, there is a possibility that children, especially the smaller ones, may run across the road without any warning.

• You must stop completely if the flashing amber lights of a school bus are turned on.

• Stop at least 20 metres away from the bus and only move when the bus moves or the lights have stopped flashing.

• Never overtake a school bus when its flashing lights are on.

• Do not suddenly speed up or apply brakes near a school bus.

• You must slow down or stop if necessary to allow the school buses or public buses to make stops when needed.

• You must not impede them or drive between them and the footpath (Article 66, UAE Federal Traffic Law, Number 21, 1995).

• You must slow down when passing schools (Article 39, UAE Federal Traffic Law Number 21, 1995).

Never overtake a school bus when it is stopped and it’s flashing lights are on.

AD Police Video

Do’s and Dont’s for vehicles near school buses

Weather

Al Ain experiences a desert climate with two main seasons: a hot summer and a mild winter. Summers, which span from May to September, are intensely hot, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 40°C to 45°C (104°F to 113°F), and occasional spikes above 50°C (122°F). Winters, from November to March, are much more pleasant, with average daytime temperatures between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn are transitional periods with warm temperatures that gradually shift between the extremes of summer and winter.

Al Ain also occasionally experiences extreme weather, such as “Shamals,” strong northwesterly winds that bring dust storms, reducing visibility and temporarily disrupting daily life. A few times a year these storms also bring torrential rain, and sometimes even hail resulting in flash flooding. The city is extremely well prepared with the Wadi System handling the bulk of the flood waters. Extreme weather warnings will be

sent out via emergency warning message direct to your mobile phone. It is advisable in these cases to stay indoors as it can be very dangerous to be out on the roads. It can take time for the street drainage to be opened allowing the flow of water on flooded roads and roundabouts into the underground drainage network.

During these extreme storms, the force of the wind and rain combined very often results in windows and doors leaking. You can be prepared by placing towels under windows and doors so you will have less to clean up after the inclemant weather has passed.

Social Media Accounts to follow for weather updates and reporting: https://www.instagram.com/officialuaeweather/ https://www.instagram.com/adpolicehq/ https://www.instagram.com/ncemauae/ For footage of weather from around the UAE https://www.instagram.com/storm_ae/

FLOOD WATERS AND HAIL IN AL AIN

Driving in bad weather

Bad weather conditions such as fog and sandstorms reduces visibility and sometimes makes the road slippery thereby increasing the risk of accidents. Al Ain can witness some vicious storms with high winds (Shamal) and lashing rain. These storms can come out of nowhere and do incredible damage so travelling during a shamal should be avoided. Roads and especially roundabout flood quickly so you should take care when entering any water logged part on the roads. In winter there are frequent bouts of very thick fog - especially on the road between Al Ain and Abu Dhabi. Below are some guidelines to help keep you safe on the roads.

• If possible, postpone your trip until the weather conditions improve.

• Try and start your trip earlier to drive calmly in bad weather.

• While entering a fog-affected area, reduce your speed gradually.

• If the fog is too dense, pull completely off the road and turn on hazard (emergency) lights while your vehicle is parked safely.

• Always use low beam headlights; turn on fog lights if available to increase visibility.

• Use wipers and defrosters as necessary for maximum visibility

• Do not overtake or change lanes unnecessarily.

• Do not stop in moving traffic. You could become the first link in a chain reaction accident.

• Do not speed up suddenly, even if the fog seems to be clearing.

You must give way to emergency vehicles, which have either a siren or flashing lights on, by keeping to the right side of the road, reducing speed and stopping if necessary

EMERGENCY VEHICLES

An emergency vehicle (ambulance, police vehicle and fire engine) always have priority when their sirens or flashing lights are on.

• When an emergency vehicle (ambulance, police vehicle and fire engine) is approaching you from any direction and is sounding a siren, you must yield the right of way by:

- Immediately moving clear of any interse tion.

- Driving as closely as possible to the right curb or edge of the two-way roadway.

- Pulling right or left to the nearest curb on one-way streets.

- Stopping until the emergency vehicle has passed and checking that no other emergency vehicles are approaching.

• Never follow within 150 metres of any emergency vehicle that has its siren or lights on.

Do not turn on hazard (emergency) lights while driving in fog; hazard lights should only be used when the vehicle is stopped for emergency purposes.

AD Police Video Safety Tips for driving in Fog

AD Police Video Speed Reduction System & monitoring during bad weather

AD Police Video

Emergency Response during bad weather

by the competent security authorities. If you hear an order to evacuate, do so immediately and ensure your safety and the safety of your family members.

IF YOU ARE OUTSIDE:

• Try to find a safe place and inform others of your whereabouts.

• Please be careful during changes in the road due to weather conditions.

• Do not do any outdoor activities and postpone your work until after the storm.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a mask or a tissue dampened with water and wear goggles to protect your eyes.

• Avoid standing under tall trees.

• Avoid staying in open spaces, especially if you suffer from allergies, asthma, or chest infections.

WHEN DRIVING A VEHICLE:

• Listen to weather reports on the radio.

AD Police Video Safety Tips for driving in bad weather

Sandstorms

You may receive awareness messages before sandstorms occur.

IF YOU ARE INSIDE THE HOUSE:

• Listen and watch weather bulletins, official media and social media sites.

• Make sure the windows are securely fastened and secured, and reinforce them with wooden planks.

• Secure metal panels, TV screens, and other objects that can be blown away by strong winds.

• Make sure that the equipment in the yard is secured and cannot be blown away by the storm.

• Do not allow children to play outside the house.

• Make sure your vehicle is parked in a safe place, so it does not get damaged by storms.

• Do not allow children, people with respiratory diseases, asthma or allergies to go out unless absolutely necessary.

• Stay away from glass windows and doors.

• Implement the instructions and guidelines given

• Avoid sand dunes on exposed roads, especially while driving, as the winds are active and cause large quantities of dust to be transported on the road.

• Drive slowly, especially if you are surprised by obstructed vision and narrowing of the road lanes.

• If you are using the air conditioner, close the air intake vent from the outside.

• Slow down and do not overtake other vehicles, and leave enough distance between vehicles.

• Hazzard lights should only be used as a warning.

• When strong winds blow while you are in the car, leave the car and head to the nearest safe place.

• If you need to stop your vehicle permanently, pull it off the road and call someone to let them know your whereabouts.

• If visibility is poor while you are driving, leave the main road and go to a side road if possible, then stop and keep your lights and hazzard lights on.

• Make sure the road is clear of sand dunes.

• Please do not drive at high speed, do not overtake other vehicles, and leave enough distance between vehicles.

• Please drive with extreme caution on roads with many sand dunes due to weather fluctuations, which may lead to the vehicle slipping and losing control of it.

SOURCE: https://www.ncm.gov.ae/

Driving through Roundabouts

A roundabout is a circular intersection designed to ensure smoother and efficient flow of traffic for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. However, failure to yield, give way and lack of lane discipline are leading causes of accidents at roundabouts.

• You must reduce your speed while approaching a roundabout, and move to an appropriate lane as per your planned direction.

• Always watch for all road users and be ready to stop.

• Before entering a roundabout, you must yield to traffic already in the roundabout that comes from your immediate left.

• Enter the roundabout to your right (at counter clockwise direction) only when there is sufficient gap in traffic.

• To go straight, always enter from the middle or right most lane and keep driving in the same lane until you exit; turn on the right indicator as soon as you enter the roundabout.

• To turn left or make a U-turn always enter from the left most lane and keep driving in the same lane until exit;

• turn on the right indicator after you have passed the second exit.

• To go right, always use the right most lane.

• When exiting a roundabout please turn on the right-turning indicator.

• Before entering a roundabout it is mandatory to take the correct/appropriate lane to avoid accidents due to lane changing.

Parking Rules

You must not park a vehicle:

• At places where there is no permission to park.

• At pedestrian crossings, on the footpath, on bridges, viaducts or in tunnels.

• Next to curves, on crests of hills or next to solid centre lines which cannot be crossed.

• Where it will impede any traffic signals,

signs or road markings.

• In front of the entrance of houses, parking areas, petrol stations, hospitals, emergency stations, fire stations, police stations, military areas, schools or educational institutions.

• Places where it can block stationary vehicles.

• Residential areas (if driving a heavy vehicle or heavy mechanical vehicle) unless they are used for construction.

• 15 metres from intersections or in front of public transport stations

Paid Parking (MAWAQIF)

In order to address the growing demand for parking and to prevent the misuse of limited parking spaces, the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport has implemented a sustainable parking management solution called MAWAQiF. MAWAQiF manages and regulates parking services in the Abu Dhabi Emirate.

• A sign indicating paid parking zones and the paid parking hours are put up at the entrance of all parking areas.

• Parking areas are classified into two categories—Premium and Standard parking.

• The Standard parking areas are identified by the turquoise and black curb stones, and the Premium parking areas by the turquoise and white curb stones. A sign board is also

• posted at each parking location that provides the following information:

-This is a paid parking area.

-The yellow and black curb stones mean ‘No parking for 24 hours’, means this is a no parking zone.

- Standard parking zone.

- Premium parking zone.

- Paid parking hours are from 8 am to midnight, - after which parking is free in the parking zone.

- Maximum Stay (Standard parking) 24 hours

- Maximum Stay (Premium parking) 4 hours

- Standard parking Fee AED 2 per hour or AED 15 per day

- Premium parking Fee AED 3 per hour

• Parking is free on Sundays and on public holidays and for people with special needs permit.

• Illegally parked vehicles will be fined. Penalty for illegal parking ranges from AED 100 to AED 1,000 — depending on the severity of the

• violation. A detailed list of the penalties can be found on MAWAQiF’s website (www.mawaqif.ae).

Customers can call the MAWAQiF Call Centre 24 hours a day and 7 days a week on 800 3009 or email MAWAQiF@dot.abudhabi.ae.

MAWAQIF PAYMENT METHODS

• CASH

• MAWAQiF Prepaid cards: You can also use prepaid cards to makeb payments at park ing meters. You can choose between cards for AED 50 and cards for AED 100. Cards are available at MAWAQiF Customer Service Centres.

• m-MAWAQiF:

The MAWAQiF mobile service, called m-MAWAQiF, allows drivers to pay their parking fees via mobile phones. After registering their Etisalat or du mobile numbers online, drivers can top-up their accounts by a secure online credit card payment. They can use these funds on their account by sending an SMS in a predefined format to the number 3009. Drivers will receive their permit via SMS. m-MAWAQiF also sends a reminder message 10 minutes before the expiry of the permit. Drivers can extend their permit for another hour by simply sending ‘E’ via SMS to the number 3009.Drivers can also make a payment directly through SMS without the need for pre-registration.

• Payment through credit card: Master and Visa Card. To pay for parking at the parking machines, simply insert the card and fol low the instructions on the screen.

Visit Abu Dhabi Mobility website for more information: https://admobility.gov.ae/en/mawaqif-parking-payment-methods

In the event of a fine you will be notified via sms. There is no need to print your parking receipt as vehicles are checked digitally. There is an option at the end of your transaction to enter your mobile number - in this case you will receive a reminder 15 minutes before your parking expires.

Finding a Home

If your housing is not arranged by your company, finding a place to stay can be daunting. It is a very easy and simple process though. Find an agent online or recommended by someone you trust. Sites like propertyfinder.ae and dubizzle are sometimes helpful. Selected complexes like those at Hazza Stadium and Mreifa complex near Tawam hospital have their own site offices.

A few areas that may be different to other countries include having to pay your rental agent a predetermined amount in commission. This is usually 5% of the total rental price. As a precaution, never pay the rental amount over to the agent. This should always only be paid to the owner. Once you have found a suitable new home, you will need to go to the Municipality with your agent to get a Tawtheeq. This registered contract protects both yourself and the landlord in the event of dispute. You will need this contract to open your electricity account. Be sure to consider the price of water and electricity before you splash out on a huge property.

GAS STOVES

A lot of properties are only set up for the use of a gas stove and do not have 3 phase wiring for an electric stove. Whether you have to use gas or choose a gas stove over an electric one, you will need to get a regulator from selected ADNOC garages. The last ADNOC on the right hand side of the road situated just before the bridge at the intersection of the Bawadi Mall and Radisson Blu roads sells gas regulators. You can choose to get a gas cylinder at the same ADNOC or you can get one from the roving gas trucks (but these are more expensive). You will be alerted that the truck is nearby through incessant hooting as they pass. Check with the Municipality to make sure you are aware of all the regulations as these can change often.

UAE PASS

UAE PASS is the first secure national digital identity for citizens and residents of the UAE. The app enables all registered individuals to access more than 12000 government, semi-government and private sector entities’ services through their respective websites and apps, and allows them to digitally sign documents. UAE PASS also enables users to request a digital version of official documents issued to their name and to use the same to request services from trusted network of service providers.

Download the UAE PASS application and register for a basic account with/without Emirates ID card (you can choose an option). As a next step, you can verify your account using Emirates ID card if you are a UAE citizen or resident, or if you are visiting the UAE, you can use either GCC ID card or passport to verify your account, and a final step for verification will be to verify your face biometric through UAE PASS app or else you can visit the nearest UAE PASS kiosk with your Emirates ID (for UAE citizens / residents only).

To download app go to the useful apps page in this guide

Pest Control

Individuals, farms and homeowners can contact the Government Contact Centre at 800555 or register a request using the pest control services through the TAMM platform.

Taxes

One of the appealing aspects of living in Al Ain, as part of the United Arab Emirates, is the absence of personal income tax, making it a tax-friendly environment for residents. However, there are other taxes and fees to be aware of. While the UAE does not levy property taxes, residents may be required to pay municipal fees, which are typically added to utility bills. Additionally, a Value Added Tax (VAT) of 5% is applied to most goods and services across the country. It’s important to budget for these costs as part of your living expenses in Al Ain.

Utility Bills

Managing utility bills in Al Ain requires careful planning, especially due to the significant cost increase during the hot summer months when air conditioning usage peaks.

To keep bills manageable, consider setting your AC to a moderate temperature, ideally around 24°C (75°F), to balance comfort and energy savings. Leaving the setting on Auto will also reduce consumption. Using free standing fans can also help circulate cool air more efficiently, reducing the strain on your AC.

During the cooler winter months, take advantage of natural ventilation by opening windows when temperatures are pleasant, minimizing the need for air conditioning. Regularly servicing your AC units and ensuring that doors and windows are properly sealed can also improve energy efficiency.

Being mindful of energy use year-round can help balance the cost fluctuations between seasons and keep your utility bills under control. All utilities are provided by AADC (Al Ain Distribution Company). You will be required to pay a security deposit as well as a portion of your rental contract value as part of your monthly bill. For more information on these charges, please visit your nearest AADC customer service centre.

WATER TEMPERATURE IN SUMMER

With temperatures reaching up to 50 degrees in the summer months - it is advisable to switch off the geysers (water heaters) in your home. This will allow you to access cooler water from the geyser that will keep cool inside the home.

Al Ain Airport

Al Ain Airport is located on the outskirts of the city and operating since 1994, Al Ain International Airport is Abu Dhabi’s second international airport.

- Opened in 1994

- Serving nine destinations

- The International airport code is AAN

- The airport is situated 18kms from Al Ain city centre

- The first airport in the region receiving 3 ISO and OHSAS certifications.

- One terminal

- 10 check-in desks, including one for business class travellers

- Four gates

- A 4,000m runway and a parallel 4,000m taxiway that can double as a runway as needed

About the Airport

Currently, two scheduled airlines operate from Al Ain International Airport, with new carriers and destinations being added in the near future. To meet forecasted traffic demands, driven by the growth of the Emirate’s economy and Al Ain’s aerospace industrial activities (see below), plans are underway for the expansion of Al Ain International Airport. Al Ain International Airport plays a vital sustainability role as the location for Nibras Al Ain Aerospace Park, the UAE’s first aerospace cluster, which will become a long-term economic development and diversification catalyst and generate employment.

Jointly developed by Mubadala Aerospace and Abu Dhabi Airports, the 25 km² aerospace park has brought together world-class aerospace manufacturers and suppliers, research and knowledge institutions, and educational and scientific bodies.

Al Ain International Airport is also a home base for civilian and military pilot training.

Recycling

Now that you have moved to one of the most picturesque regions in the UAE, participating in your community's local recycling program helps keep the city looking clean and beautiful. Al Ain offers various recycling options, with several recycling stations located throughout the city.

Al Ain Recycling Centers

The Recyclable Material Collection Centers (RMCC), is an integral part of Tadweer Group environmental initiative. This initiative started in 2023 as a direct response to the UAE’s commitment to the Year of Sustainability, encouraging the community’s participation in sustainable practices to tackle environmental challenges.

RMCCs, designed for maximum efficiency, are strategically positioned across Al Ain.

Recycling stations across Al Ain accept a range of items, including paper, cardboard, plastic, glass, clothing, batteries, household utensils, rubber etc. Residents are encouraged to utilize these centers to responsibly dispose of household recyclables and waste, helping reduce landfill use and promoting sustainability.

Al Mutarid