A parked car left under the UAE’s summer sun can quickly reach temperatures of 60°C or higher, creating conditions that can cause heat stress, impair concentration and increase road accident risks, road safety experts have warned.
Mustafa Aldah, founder of RoadHeroAcademy, said extreme cabin temperatures can affect a driver’s ability to remain alert and react safely after entering an overheated vehicle.
“Cognitive performance drops above 26°C, so you can imagine what happens at 46°C,” Aldah said, adding that staying hydrated and well-rested is essential for safe driving.
Doctors warned that entering a vehicle exposed to direct sunlight can place immediate stress on the body, causing dehydration, dizziness, headaches and reduced concentration. Prolonged exposure can lead to heat exhaustion or life-threatening heatstroke.
Dr Zara Ahmed, a specialist in Emergency Medicine at Rak Hospital, said the body’s cooling mechanisms can become overwhelmed in extreme heat, while Dr Joseph Youssef, a specialist in Internal Medicine at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital, warned that people with underlying health conditions face higher risks.
Experts also highlighted the impact of summer heat on vehicle safety, urging motorists to check tyres, fluid levels, batteries, cooling systems and other components before travelling.
Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, advised drivers to pay particular attention to tyre maintenance during hot weather, as high temperatures can increase the risk of tyre damage and failures.
Authorities and experts reiterated that children, elderly people, vulnerable adults and pets should never be left inside parked vehicles, even briefly, as temperatures can become dangerous within minutes.
Motorists were advised to park in shaded areas where possible, use sunshades, allow hot air to escape before driving, stay hydrated and stop immediately if they experience symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, blurred vision or nausea.