Accidents statistics in UAE 2024

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the safest countries regarding road accidents and road safety, given its rapidly growing population and extensive road networks. In recent years the UAE have invested a lot of time and money in improving the road infrastructure, but challenges persist. This article explores the latest statistics ,news ,and trends regarding car accidents in the UAE for 2024.

• The government of UAE is determined to improve road safety through governmental programs, the implementation of technology based systems, public awareness campaigns, and new traffic laws.
• The Traffic helped in reducing the road fatalities due to accidents by 25% in the last 6 months in Abu Dhabi, from 162 to 121.

The stats are as follows according to the ministry of interior: 

• Total reported accidents in UAE: Approximately 3945 in the year 2022
• The emirate with the highest number of accidents: Dubai 

• The main accident type: Collision (67.5% of total accidents)
• Most affected emirates: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah

1. Carelessness:

Carelessness remains the main cause of accidents in the UAE, accounting for over 38% of incidents.
2024 saw an increase in speed-related fatalities due to reckless driving behavior.

2. Speeding:

Speeding is one of the main causes of traffic accidents in the UAE.
Estimated 13.1% of accidents involve speeding behaviors.

3. Tailgating

Tailgating and road rage incidents contribute to a significant number of crashes., with 6.4% of total accidents linked to impaired driving.

4. Driving in opposite direction

Driving in opposite directions contributes to a significant number of crashes in UAE with 4.9%.

5. Incorrect over taking

Incorrect over taking is the fifth reason for vehicle crashes in the UAE that is responsible for 4.7% of total crashes.

1- Decrease in Fatalities and car accidents

• Since 2019, there has been a reduction in road fatalities, indicating effective safety measures and increased awareness about driving.

2- More strict driving laws:

The UAE has increased the number of speed cameras and applied more strict penalties for traffic violations.

3- Public Awareness Campaigns:

Ongoing campaigns focused on safe driving, especially during festive seasons.

• Age Group:

Most accidents involve drivers aged between 18-35 years.

Young males are disproportionately represented in accident statistics.

• Nationality:

A diverse demographic, with expatriates involved in a significant portion of accidents which can be justified by the large numbers of foreigners in UAE.

• The emirate with the highest number of accidents is Dubai with an estimated population of 3,051,020.
• The emirate with the lowest number of accidents is Umm Al Quain with an estimated population of 59,098.

• Rear-end Collisions

The most frequently reported type of accident, often due to tailgating.

• Side-impact Collisions

Common at intersections, often resulting from running red lights.

• Single-vehicle Accidents

Occur when a driver loses control, often linked to speeding or distraction.

• Adhere to Speed Limits:

You should always follow speed regulations and adjust your vehicle speed according to road conditions.

• Avoid Distractions:

Stay focused while driving on the road; avoid using mobile devices while driving.

• Always be sober while driving:

Always ensure a sober driver is available if you consume alcohol.

• Regular Vehicle Maintenance:

Keep your vehicles in good shape to prevent mechanical failures which can lead to accidents.

• Vision Zero:

The UAE's long-term strategy aims for zero fatalities on the roads by 2030 or before by different emirates.

• Smart Traffic Systems (iTraffic):

Implementation of AI-driven traffic systems to monitor, control ,and improve traffic flow.

• Public Transport Expansion:

Initiatives to enhance public transport options to reduce reliance on personal vehicles like Dubai Metro Blue Line. 

The Public Transportation market in in the United Arab Emirates is projected to grow by 3.07% (2024-2029) 

Conclusion

Despite the progress made to reduce car accidents and fatalities in the UAE, the changing nature of the roads and driving behaviors is a major challenge. Increasing efforts from the government and all the drivers are a necessity to ensure that road safety remains a major priority. By maintaining awareness about the statistics and complying with safe driving practices, drivers can contribute to a safer UAE roads for all.

As the UAE continues to develop and modernize its roads infrastructure, it is crucial to remember that road safety is a collective responsibility. Awareness, education, and compliance with traffic laws can have a great impact in reducing car accidents in the UAE in the future.