UAE authorities launch road safety campaigns amid rising distraction-related accidents

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates are intensifying road safety efforts following reports of high casualty rates linked to driver distraction. In Sharjah, police reported that distracted driving was responsible for 22 of the 33 road deaths recorded in 2025, accounting for approximately two-thirds of the emirate's traffic fatalities. Statistics from Sharjah Police indicate that 360 casualties, including 338 injuries, were attributed to driver distraction during the year.

In Dubai, the Dubai Police General Command, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), is promoting the ‘Accident-Free Day’ initiative. The campaign specifically targets school zones and roads to ensure safety during the start of the new academic year. The initiative encourages parents and drivers to practice safer habits, such as reducing speeds, avoiding distractions, and maintaining proper spacing around school crossings and drop-off points.