The Abu Dhabi Police have issued a strict warning to drivers, highlighting the key causes of traffic accidents that often lead to serious injuries or fatalities. The primary threat to road safety, according to authorities, remains distracted driving — particularly due to the use of mobile phones for browsing the internet, checking social media, making calls, or taking photos and videos while behind the wheel.

Lieutenant Colonel Nasser Abdullah Al Saadi, Head of the Public Relations Department at Abu Dhabi Police, emphasized that such distraction is especially dangerous in situations requiring quick responses, such as sudden changes in traffic conditions or technical issues with the vehicle.

Incorrect use of overtaking lanes was also noted as a major concern. Drivers were reminded to yield to faster-moving vehicles, stay in the right lane when driving slowly, and avoid overtaking from the right side — a maneuver that can easily lead to severe collisions.

Previously, the UAE Ministry of Interior reported that running red lights was among the leading causes of traffic accidents in the country in 2024. According to their latest report, 271 violations of this type were recorded, with Abu Dhabi accounting for 153 of them, Dubai 111, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain three each, and one in Sharjah.

Under UAE traffic law, running a red light results in a fine of 1,000 dirhams, 12 black points on the driver’s license, and vehicle impoundment for 30 days. Additional penalties apply in certain emirates. For instance, in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, drivers must pay 50,000 dirhams to retrieve their impounded vehicle. If the fine is not paid within three months, the vehicle may be auctioned off.