Dubai: The UAE recorded 384 road fatalities in 2024, marking a 9% increase compared to 352 deaths in 2023 and a 12% rise from 343 fatalities in 2022, according to the latest Ministry of Interior (MoI) statistics. The number of road injuries also saw an upward trend, with 6,032 reported cases, reflecting an 8.33% increase from 2023 figures.
Rising Traffic, Higher Risk
The increase in vehicles on UAE roads over the past three years has been accompanied by a steady rise in road accidents and fatalities. A total of 4,748 major accidents were recorded in 2024, representing an 8% increase from 2023 and a 20% surge from 2022.
Top 5 Causes of Fatal Accidents in 2024
Authorities attributed 68% of road deaths and 62% of injuries to the following five key violations:
- Distracted driving
- Tailgating (not maintaining a safe following distance)
- Sudden lane deviation
- Negligence or inattention
- Failure to maintain lane discipline
Young Drivers at Higher Risk
The most vulnerable age group remains young road users (drivers, passengers, and pedestrians) between 19 and 29 years old, accounting for 40% of fatalities in 2024, up from 38% in 2023. The number of injuries among young road users also increased by 42% in 2024 compared to the previous year.
Most Dangerous Roads in the UAE
According to MoI data, the top 10 roads with the highest fatalities in 2024 included:
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road
- Emirates Road
- Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road
- Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Street
- Main Street (Abu Dhabi-Commodities)
- Al Ain-Dubai Road
- Al Khail Street
- Dubai-Hatta Road
- Tarif Street
- Sheikh Zayed Street
Motorcyclists, E-Scooter Riders Among Most Vulnerable
In terms of vehicle type, motorcyclists accounted for 67 deaths in 2024, representing 17.45% of total fatalities, a significant increase from 12% in 2023.
Additionally, e-scooter riders recorded 19 fatalities in 2024, making up 5% of all road deaths, compared to 4% in 2023.
Pedestrians were also at risk, with 61 fatal run-over incidents, accounting for 16% of all road deaths last year.
Road Safety Experts Call for Stricter Measures
Commenting on the statistics, Thomas Edelmann, Founder and Managing Director of RoadSafetyUAE, acknowledged the increase in fatalities but noted that the long-term trend remains positive compared to previous years.
"The UAE recorded over 1,000 road deaths in 2008. The 2024 figures represent a significant drop from that number, which is commendable. However, the rising number of accidents and fatalities—especially among vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists, e-scooter riders, and pedestrians—requires urgent attention," Edelmann said.
He emphasized the need for stronger enforcement measures and public awareness campaigns to curb reckless driving behaviors.
Government Efforts to Improve Road Safety
Dr. Mustafa Aldah, Emirati road safety expert and Founder of MA-Traffic Consulting, pointed out that while fatalities have decreased over the years, the recent uptick in road deaths must be addressed.
"It's concerning to see a slight reversal in numbers. However, compared to global trends, the UAE still maintains a relatively low fatality rate. Stricter penalties and better enforcement can help reverse this upward trend," he stated.
The UAE has already implemented strict traffic laws, imposing hefty fines, vehicle confiscation, and legal action against reckless drivers.
Calls for Stricter Enforcement and Awareness
Phil Clarke, Director of 4E Road Safety and Transport Consultants, stressed that fines alone won’t solve reckless driving.
"Penalties are important, but they must be backed by consistent law enforcement. Drivers who violate road safety rules should face not just fines but also license suspensions and stricter legal consequences," Clarke said.
He further suggested that public education and awareness programs should be strengthened to instill a culture of road safety among all users.
Final Thoughts: A Collective Responsibility
As UAE authorities work towards reducing road accidents, safety experts emphasize that public safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and motorcyclists must actively follow traffic laws to help create safer roads for all.
