Dubai is known for its luxurious lifestyle and extravagant cars. The city is home to some of the most expensive and rarest cars in the world. However, it’s also a place where cars are often abandoned. Yes, you read that right!
Abandoned cars are a common sight in Dubai’s streets and parking lots. But why do people abandon their cars in this city? Let’s explore some of the reasons behind it.
Reasons for Abandoned Cars in Dubai
1. High Cost of Maintenance
Maintaining a car in Dubai is quite expensive. The hot and humid weather conditions take a toll on the car’s engine, battery, and air conditioning systems, which require frequent maintenance.
Also, the cost of spare parts and repairs is higher compared to other countries. As a result, many people find it difficult to keep up with the high maintenance costs and eventually abandon their vehicles.
2. Job Loss or Financial Crisis
Dubai is a hub for expatriates who come to work in various sectors such as construction, hospitality, finance, etc. Many of these expats buy or lease cars to commute to work or travel around the city during their stay.
However, if they lose their jobs or face financial crises, they may not be able to afford the monthly payments or maintenance costs of their vehicles. Consequently, they abandon them and leave the country.
3. Accidents
Road accidents are quite common in Dubai due to reckless driving, speeding, and tailgating. In some cases, owners abandon their damaged vehicles on the side of the road due to lack of insurance or inability to pay for repairs.
4. Legal Issues
Abandoning a car is illegal in Dubai as per UAE law. However, some owners choose to leave their vehicles behind if they face legal issues such as unpaid fines or loans, expired visas, or driving licenses. In such cases, the authorities impound the vehicles and auction them off.
Impact of Abandoned Cars
Abandoned cars not only create an eyesore but also pose environmental and safety hazards. They can leak oil and other fluids, which can contaminate the soil and water sources.
Moreover, they can become breeding grounds for pests and rodents, posing health risks to residents nearby. In addition, abandoned cars can hinder traffic flow and cause accidents if left unattended on busy roads.
Conclusion
Abandoned cars are a common problem in Dubai due to various reasons such as high maintenance costs, financial crises, accidents, and legal issues. However, it’s important to address this issue to ensure public safety and maintain the city’s aesthetics. The authorities have taken steps to impound and auction off abandoned cars but more needs to be done in terms of awareness campaigns and incentives for owners to dispose of their unwanted vehicles responsibly.