Dubai RTA Summer Car Check: Tyres & Inspections

Klaus Schmidt · 2026-06-11

You know that feeling when you step outside in Dubai during July and the heat hits you like a wall? Your car feels it too. That's why the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is urging everyone to get their vehicles checked before the summer heat really cranks up. The RTA has launched a campaign to help drivers stay safe. They're asking motorists to focus on two big things: regular inspections and tyre maintenance. High temperatures and humidity put a lot of stress on your car's cooling system and tyres. So a little prep now can save you from a breakdown later. This drive is part of the Ministry of Interior's national "Safe Summer" campaign. Ahmed Al Khzaimy, Director of Traffic at the Traffic and Roads Agency, RTA, said it's all about raising awareness. "We want everyone to enjoy a safe summer on the roads," he explained. ### Why summer is tough on your car Summer in Dubai means temperatures can easily hit 120 degrees Fahrenheit. That kind of heat does a number on your vehicle. Your engine works harder to stay cool. Your battery can drain faster. And your tyres? They can lose pressure or even blow out if they're not in good shape. Think of it like this: you wouldn't run a marathon without stretching first. Same goes for your car. A quick check-up can prevent major problems down the road. ### What you should check before summer The RTA suggests a few simple things you can do yourself. But they also recommend getting a professional inspection at least once before the hottest months. - **Tyres:** Check the pressure when they're cold. Look for any cracks, bulges, or worn tread. The RTA says under-inflated tyres can overheat and fail. - **Cooling system:** Make sure your coolant levels are full. If your car's been running hot, get the radiator flushed. - **Battery:** Heat can kill a battery fast. Have it tested to make sure it's holding a charge. - **Air conditioning:** Let's be real, you need this to work. Get it serviced if it's not blowing cold. - **Brakes:** Squeaking or grinding? Get them checked immediately. ### The simple truth about tyre safety Your tyres are the only part of your car touching the road. So they matter a lot. In extreme heat, the air inside expands. That can cause a blowout if your tyres are already worn or under-inflated. The RTA recommends checking your tyre pressure at least once a month. And don't forget the spare. You don't want to be stuck on the side of the road with a flat spare. > "A small investment in maintenance can prevent a big headache on the road," says Al Khzaimy. ### How to get your car summer-ready You don't need to be a mechanic to keep your car safe. Just follow these steps: 1. **Schedule a check-up** with a trusted garage. They'll look at everything from belts to hoses. 2. **Top off fluids** like oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. 3. **Inspect your tyres** for wear and proper pressure. Replace them if the tread is low. 4. **Test your A/C** before you really need it. A broken system can make driving miserable. 5. **Keep an emergency kit** in your car: water, a first-aid kit, and a phone charger. ### Final thoughts Look, nobody wants to deal with a breakdown in the middle of summer. It's hot, it's stressful, and it can be dangerous. But a few simple checks can make all the difference. The RTA's campaign is a good reminder that safety starts with you. So take 20 minutes this weekend to give your car some love. Your future self, sweating in traffic, will thank you. Stay cool out there.