Dubai Police step up traffic safety drive for ‘Summer Without Accidents’ campaign

Dubai: Dubai Police on Thursday announced enhanced traffic safety measures in support of the nationwide ‘Summer Without Accidents’ campaign, organised by the Ministry of Interior and running until 1 September.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at Address Sky View Hotel, in the presence of Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, Assistant Commandant for Operations Affairs. Also in attendance were Major General Rashid Khalifa bin Darwish Al Falasi, Director of the General Department of Transport and Rescue; Brigadier Ahmad Al Sam Al Naqbi, Director of Central Operations at Ras Al Khaimah Police and Chairman of the Traffic Awareness and Safety Committee of the Federal Traffic Council; Brigadier Juma bin Suwaidan, Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic; Brigadier Hamouda bin Balsoida Al Ameri, Director of the General Department of Airport Security; and Zaid Alqufaidi, Executive Director of ENOC Retail, along with several officers and media representatives.

Major General Al Ghaithi said the campaign reflects an integrated approach involving both public and private sectors, aimed at reducing traffic accidents, injuries, and fatalities across the country.

Speaking to Gulf News, Al Ghaithi said the summer months, particularly between July and September, pose unique challenges. “It’s not just about the heat,” he said. “It’s about behaviour, attention, and responsibility on the roads.”

He cited driver distraction — particularly mobile phone use — as a leading cause of accidents. “Using your phone while driving is one of the biggest dangers. A single moment of distraction can cost lives. Many drivers fail to maintain safe distances or ignore traffic signals. Speeding is another major concern,” he added.

Despite the efforts of Dubai Police and their partners, including regular patrols and awareness drives, Al Ghaithi stressed that true change starts with individuals. “Police can’t be everywhere. Drivers must take responsibility — pedestrians too. We often see people crossing roads unsafely, and drivers not paying attention. It’s a shared duty.”

He noted that the UAE’s multicultural society — with residents from over 200 nationalities — adds complexity to road safety. “Different cultures bring different driving habits. That’s why awareness is essential, especially during these critical summer months.”

“This year, we’re looking beyond statistics. It’s about people’s safety — their children, families, and futures. Everyone, from the government to the community, needs to care.”

He also emphasised the importance of proper vehicle maintenance in extreme heat. “Some people ignore small issues in their vehicles. But in summer, that can be dangerous. Temperatures can reach 50°C. A fuel leak or faulty wiring can quickly turn a car into a fire hazard.”

In cooperation with partners such as the Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Police is offering free vehicle inspections as part of the campaign. “There’s no excuse. The service is there to help you. Think about yourself. Think about your family.”

Surveillance and awareness campaigns will continue throughout the summer, with a special focus on trucks and larger vehicles. “This isn’t about punishing people — it’s about preventing tragedies. A car fire, an accident — these can be avoided with simple precautions.”

Major General Al Ghaithi concluded: “We may not reach zero accidents overnight, but if we work together — as one team — we can reduce the numbers and save lives. That’s our mission. That’s our goal.”

Al Ghaithi shared alarming statistics for traffic accidents in Dubai during the summer months (1 June to 30 September) over the past three years:

Major General Al Ghaithi said the campaign is part of the broader government initiative to enhance road safety amid Dubai’s rapid urban growth and rising number of vehicles.

“Keeping people safe on the roads is a national priority,” he said. “This campaign is about saving lives by encouraging drivers to follow traffic rules and remain aware of their surroundings.”

Al Ghaithi commended the strong collaboration between police departments, government bodies, and private companies in supporting the campaign. He also acknowledged the Federal Traffic Council’s role in analysing traffic data and proposing strategies to reduce accidents.

One key campaign partner is AutoPro, a vehicle service provider under the ENOC Group. As part of the initiative, AutoPro is offering free vehicle inspections to help prevent breakdowns and tyre-related accidents during the hot summer months.

The most common causes of traffic accidents include:

Brigadier Ahmad Al Naqbi, Chairman of the Traffic Awareness and Safety Committee, urged motorists to check their tyres regularly during summer, when blowouts are more likely. He stressed the importance of using high-quality, certified tyres and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles.

He also reminded drivers to stay alert and avoid mobile phone use while driving.

AutoPro has 54 branches and 200 patrol stations across the UAE, offering free vehicle inspections as part of the campaign.

Zaid Alqufaidi, Executive Director of ENOC Retail, told Gulf News that his team is proud to support the initiative. “We’ve always worked closely with Dubai Police to raise awareness about road safety. This campaign allows us to give back to the community and help prevent accidents before they happen.”

As part of the initiative, AutoPro is offering free comprehensive vehicle checks at service centres across Dubai. The inspection covers tyres, brakes, engine cooling systems, and more.

The event concluded with Major General Al Ghaithi presenting a certificate of appreciation to AutoPro in recognition of their continued support for the Summer Without Accidents campaign and their dedication to promoting road safety.