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Wed, Nov 12, 2025 | Jumada al-Awwal 21, 1447 | Fajr 05:14 | DXB 
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2,285 accidents in Dubai in 2024: Police warn of rising road fatalities during summer
Officials pointed to speeding, poor vehicle maintenance, driver fatigue, and distracted driving as key contributors to the rise
In 2024, Dubai recorded 2,285 traffic accidents, resulting in 34 deaths and 43 serious injuries during the summer. The rising number of traffic-related deaths over recent years has raised alarm, prompting various entities to come together to launch the 2025 edition of the “Summer Without Accidents” campaign, urging drivers to exercise caution during the hot months.
Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations at Dubai Police shared concerning figures for traffic accidents in Dubai during summer months (1 June to 30 September) over the past three years:
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In 2024: 3,481 accidents, resulting in 34 fatalities, 43 serious injuries, 404 moderate injuries, and 329 minor injuries.
In 2023: 4,595 accidents, with 27 fatalities, 46 serious injuries, 317 moderate injuries, and 292 minor injuries.
In 2022: 5,285 accidents, causing 36 deaths, 30 serious injuries, 231 moderate injuries, and 246 minor injuries.
He added that the increase in incidents coincides with the growing number of vehicles on the road and more people traveling during school holidays.
“This presents a real danger to road users and requires urgent cooperation from all sectors,” Al Ghaithi said.
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Main causes and response
Officials pointed to speeding, poor vehicle maintenance, driver fatigue, and distracted driving as key contributors to the rise in accidents.
“We live in a time where vehicles and technology are advancing rapidly, but that comes with the responsibility to drive safely and avoid preventable tragedies,” Al Ghaithi added.
The campaign aims to promote road safety awareness through targeted outreach, joint inspections, and coordination with entities such as the Ministry of Interior, Roads and Transport Authority, and the private sector.
Brigadier General Ahmed Al Sam Al Naqbi, Head of the Traffic Awareness and Safety Team at the Federal Traffic Council, said the goal is to reduce fatalities through better awareness and enforcement.
“High temperatures increase the risk of tyre blowouts, vehicle fires, and loss of control, especially when cars are poorly maintained,” he said.
Brigadier General Al Naqbi urged drivers to regularly inspect their tyres for wear and pressure, avoid speeding, and ensure that essential vehicle systems such as air conditioning and brakes are functioning correctly. He also advised against driving while fatigued or unwell, as this impairs concentration and reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents during the high-risk summer months. Authorities continue to collaborate with various stakeholders to launch educational campaigns and impose stricter penalties to encourage safer driving habits throughout the season.
The authorities also announced the start of a free 10-point vehicle safety check for motorists across the UAE at select fuel stations. This initiative is part of Dubai Police’s annual “Summer Without Accidents” campaign.
The free inspections include checks on:
Tire pressure and wear
Brake fluid and systems
Coolant levels and radiator hoses
Air conditioning and air filters
Battery health
Headlights and windshield wipers
Belts condition
The campaign, running from July 1 to September 1, targets motorists and travelers preparing for long trips during school holidays and summer breaks.
Waad Barakat
Waad Barakat is a Special Correspondent covering security topics, from law enforcement to local courts. With a keen eye for human interest stories, she hopes to blend it all with unique Gen Z-inspired content.
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