Road-Trip Ready for National Day? The Health Checklist UAE Travellers Often Miss
Planning a Long Drive This National Day? Here’s the Health Checklist UAE Residents Often Forget
With UAE National Day holidays around the corner, thousands of residents are preparing for long drives, desert camping, and scenic mountain getaways. From coastal highways to breathtaking climbs like Jebel Hafeet, road trips are a popular way to make the most of the pleasant winter weather. But while vehicles are checked and picnic plans are finalised, doctors warn that health preparation is often overlooked — and that can turn a dream trip into a stressful experience.
Medical experts across the UAE say long hours behind the wheel, irregular meal timings, altitude changes, and dehydration can lead to avoidable health issues if travellers are not careful. “Winter encourages families to reconnect with nature and travel more, but simple oversights can lead to discomfort or even medical emergencies,” said Dr Princy John P, Specialist Internal Medicine at Aster Clinics in Dubai Investment Park.
Common Health Risks on Long Drives
Despite cooler temperatures, dehydration remains one of the most common problems during road trips. The dry winter air, combined with long hours in air-conditioned cars, can cause travellers to drink less water than needed. This can lead to headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and poor concentration — all dangerous for drivers.
Motion sickness and headaches are also frequent complaints, especially on winding mountain roads. Digestive discomfort caused by heavy or irregular meals adds to the problem. According to Dr Princy, people with chronic conditions should be extra cautious. “Diabetics may experience blood sugar fluctuations, hypertension patients can have blood pressure changes, and those with asthma may feel shortness of breath, especially at higher altitudes,” she explained.
Fatigue is another major risk. Dr Baiju Faisal, Consultant Internal Medicine at Lifecare Hospital in Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, noted that tiredness significantly increases accident risk during long drives. “Drivers should take breaks every two hours, stretch, hydrate, and avoid pushing through exhaustion,” he advised.
Winter Sun Is Still a Threat
Many residents assume sun protection is unnecessary in winter, but doctors strongly disagree. “Sunburn is a year-round concern in the UAE,” Dr Faisal said. Outdoor stops, desert camping, and mountain viewpoints expose travellers to direct sunlight for extended periods. Using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and sunglasses can prevent sunburn, skin irritation, and heat-related discomfort.
The First-Aid Kit You Shouldn’t Skip
Both doctors emphasised that a well-stocked first-aid kit is essential for every road trip. Dr Princy recommended carrying oral rehydration salts, pain and fever relievers, allergy medication, antacids, motion sickness tablets, asthma inhalers, glucose tablets, and a glucometer for diabetics. A buffer supply of all regular medications is critical, especially for those with chronic illnesses.
Dr Faisal added practical basics such as adhesive bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, compression bandages, anti-diarrhoeal medication, and sunscreen. “Keep copies of prescriptions and personal medication details handy in case of emergencies,” he said.
Keeping Children Safe on the Road
Children are more vulnerable to dehydration, motion sickness, and temperature changes during long trips. Dr Princy urged parents to watch for signs such as irritability, nausea, stomach pain, headaches, and ear discomfort on mountain routes. “Light meals, frequent hydration, and layered clothing help keep children comfortable,” she noted.
Dr Faisal stressed the importance of road safety for young passengers. “Children must always be seated in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats and ride in the back seat,” he said, adding that children should never be left unattended in vehicles — even for a few minutes. Carrying enough water, healthy snacks, and entertainment can also prevent restlessness and discomfort.
Red Flags That Need Immediate Attention
Doctors urge travellers to seek urgent medical help if anyone experiences chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, severe vomiting or diarrhoea, allergic reactions, high fever, loss of consciousness, seizures, or serious injuries. Sudden dizziness, fainting, unusual drowsiness in children, or signs of a stroke — such as confusion, slurred speech, or weakness on one side — require immediate care.
“If a driver feels too tired or drowsy to continue, stop immediately,” Dr Faisal warned. “Fatigue is as dangerous as distracted driving.”
Smart Habits for a Healthier Journey
Experts recommend simple habits that make a big difference: drink water frequently, take 10–15 minute breaks every two to three hours, eat lighter meals, dress in layers, keep the first-aid kit accessible, save emergency contacts, and know the nearest medical facilities along your route. Avoid alcohol, follow speed limits, and ensure everyone is well-rested before starting the journey.
“Small steps like hydration, preparation, and knowing early warning signs can prevent most problems,” Dr Princy said. “Enjoy the deserts, mountains, and open roads this National Day — just be prepared and stay safe.”
As families set out to celebrate the holidays across the UAE, this simple health checklist could be the difference between a memorable road trip and a preventable emergency.
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