The United Arab Emirates (UAE) continues its dedicated efforts to reduce road fatalities, with recent data showing a slight increase in the number of fatalities compared to the previous year. Despite the uptick, the numbers remain close to the 'All Time Low' recorded last year, indicating progress in road safety measures.

According to the Ministry of Interior (MOI), road fatalities in 2023 rose by 3% to 352, marking an 8% decrease compared to 2021. This trend reflects the UAE's long-term commitment to enhancing road safety, with a remarkable 67% drop in road fatalities over the past 15 years since 2008, when fatalities exceeded 1,000.

Thomas Edelmann, Founder and Managing Director of RoadSafetyUAE, commented on the latest findings, expressing gratitude to the MOI for releasing detailed road safety statistics early in the year. While the near 'All Time Low' in fatalities is encouraging, Edelmann highlighted concerns regarding the increase in accidents and injuries, emphasizing the need for sustained focus on road safety.

The analysis revealed that five main violations accounted for 70% of fatalities and 64% of injuries, underscoring the urgency to address these key areas. Edelmann urged both public and private stakeholders to collaborate on awareness campaigns and initiatives aimed at promoting safe road behavior among their audiences, including staff, customers, and the broader community.

Notably, 98% of casualties occurred in good weather and clear road conditions, highlighting the importance of responsible road behavior at all times. Edelmann emphasized the need for enhanced efforts to educate and engage young road users, particularly those aged 19 to 29, who are disproportionately affected by major accidents.

With 15% of major accidents attributed to new driving license holders, Edelmann called on stakeholders, including driving schools, universities, employers, and parents, to play a proactive role in promoting safe driving habits from an early age. Suggestions for improving driving education, implementing staged driving licenses, and utilizing monitoring technologies for novice drivers were also put forth.

Furthermore, concerns were raised about the high share of motorcycles in major accidents, accounting for 12% of incidents. Edelmann emphasized the need for additional measures to protect vulnerable road users, including micro-mobility riders such as cyclists, e-bike users, and scooter riders.

The latest data underscores the ongoing commitment of the UAE to prioritize road safety initiatives, with stakeholders urged to collaborate and innovate to further enhance safety measures and reduce the number of road fatalities in the country.