The number of road accident fatalities in the UAE surged to 384 in 2024, marking a 9% increase from the previous year, with nearly half of these deaths occurring in Dubai, according to the Ministry of Interior’s latest road safety report.
The data also revealed an 8% rise in injuries, reaching 6,062, while major accidents totaled 4,748. Among the fatalities, 223 people lost their lives in crashes involving light vehicles, and 67 were killed in motorcycle accidents.
Despite clear weather and good road conditions in 98% of these cases, dangerous driving behaviors contributed significantly to the toll. The five most common violations—distracted driving (1,139), sudden deviation (1,092), tailgating (885), negligence and inattention (556), and lack of lane discipline (342)—accounted for 68% of fatalities and 62% of injuries.
Fridays and evenings were identified as the most dangerous times for road users. Fatalities peaked on Fridays (63 deaths), followed by Sundays (59) and Wednesdays (58).
‘Astonishing’ Number of New Driving Licences
In 2024, authorities issued 383,086 new driving licences, with Abu Dhabi leading at 147,334, followed by Dubai (112,471) and Sharjah (65,195). Thomas Edelmann, founder and managing director of RoadSafetyUAE, described the figure as “astonishing” and raised concerns about the increasing number of road casualties.
“The growing numbers of accidents, injured and fatalities overall, as well as the alarming numbers for the segment of vulnerable road users—motorcycle delivery riders, micromobility users, pedestrians—must be addressed by the involved public and private stakeholders in comprehensive and inclusive initiatives. More enforcement and more education is urgently needed,” Edelmann said.
High-Risk Roads and Young Motorists at Risk
Dubai recorded the highest number of road deaths at 158, followed by Abu Dhabi (123), Sharjah (32), Ras Al Khaimah (30), Umm Al Quwain (18), Fujairah (12), and Ajman (11). Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road was the deadliest, claiming 40 lives, followed by Emirates Street (20) and Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road (14).
Young motorists aged 19-29 were the most vulnerable group, accounting for 40% of fatalities and 42% of injuries. Edelmann urged both public and private stakeholders to take proactive measures to enhance road safety.
“For example, by running engaging awareness campaigns and initiatives with their audiences like staff and customers, as their touchpoints can really help us making a difference. Ideally, schools and employers should play a vital role in addressing the road users under their influence,” he said.
With road safety remaining a critical issue, experts continue to call for stricter enforcement, improved education, and collaborative efforts to reduce accidents and fatalities across the country.
