Dubai recorded 17 motorcyclists' deaths in 2024

Somaiya Saad, Staff Reporter

The General Directorate of Traffic at Dubai Police has announced that 17 deaths were recorded among motorcycle drivers in 2024. The department has emphasised that the majority of accidents are attributable to drivers who fail to adhere to traffic regulations.

The Dubai Police have recently escalated their efforts in terms of road surveillance, with a particular emphasis on areas where motorbikes are a common sight. The primary objective of this initiative is to identify and promptly address any violations that may be observed. In addition to this, the Dubai Police are engaged in the development of preventative solutions. This involves the enhancement of infrastructure and the expansion of awareness campaigns, which are being undertaken in collaboration with a range of stakeholders.

Major General Saif Al Mazrouei, Director of the General Directorate of Traffic at Dubai Police, expressed concerns regarding the safety of motorcycles on the roads. He asserts that motorcycles are less safe than other vehicles and that the roads are not adequately prepared for their use, which increases the risk of them overturning or catching fire.

It was explained that recreational motorcycle accidents frequently result in fatalities, as certain drivers operate their vehicles at speeds in excess of 100 km/h without observing safety measures such as helmet usage, and furthermore the absence of seat belts, thus exposing them to the risk of severe injury or death.

The Dubai Police have confirmed that strict measures will be taken against individuals who fail to abide by traffic regulations, particularly those who operate motorcycles without the necessary licence, or whose actions are characterised by recklessness and rashness. It has been indicated that these individuals will be referred to the relevant authorities for the purpose of taking legal action against them.

The police have urged cyclists to adhere to traffic regulations, utilise designated lanes, and adhere to safety procedures to mitigate risk and safeguard lives.

Furthermore, the community is urged to report any potentially dangerous behaviour via the "Police Eye" service on the Dubai Police smart app, or by contacting the "We Are All Police" service on 901.

The Dubai Police are continuing their efforts to enhance road safety through a range of measures. These include the revision of legislation, the introduction of enhanced oversight mechanisms, and the strengthening of collaborative relationships with the local community. The objective of these measures is to ensure that all road users adhere to legal and procedural requirements, thereby contributing to the reduction of accidents and the preservation of life.

Lieutenant Colonel Abdulrahman Obaid Juma Al Falasi, Director of the Traffic Education Department at Dubai Police, explained that the department hqas scheduled organisation of initiatives to promote traffic safety and awareness, as well as a series of lectures and awareness campaigns from early this year until November. This aims at inculcating traffic culture among road users.

He further emphasised the pivotal role of enhancing traffic awareness among drivers, passengers, and pedestrians, to ensure the attainment of the highest standards of traffic safety and the optimisation of Dubai's road safety.