Jumping red lights continues to be a major threat on UAE roads, causing 271 accidents across the country in 2024, according to the Ministry of Interior’s latest report.
According to a Gulf News report, Abu Dhabi topped the list with 153 red light-related incidents, followed by Dubai with 111. Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain recorded three cases each, while Sharjah had one.
Motorists caught violating the red light rule face a Dh1,000 fine, 12 black points, and a 30-day vehicle impoundment. However, penalties can be much steeper depending on the emirate. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, drivers must pay Dh50,000 to release an impounded vehicle. Failure to pay in Abu Dhabi may result in the vehicle being auctioned.
The report also revealed other alarming trends, including 67 accidents involving unlicensed drivers—55 of which occurred in Abu Dhabi.
Another common cause of collisions was motorists merging into main roads without checking if it was safe, resulting in 223 incidents. Mechanical issues also played a role, with tyre bursts alone causing 26 accidents in Abu Dhabi, eight in Dubai, and three in Ras Al Khaimah.
Driving in the wrong direction led to 18 accidents, while failure to yield to pedestrians caused 96 incidents—37 of them in Abu Dhabi and 34 in Dubai.
Earlier this month, authorities also flagged sudden swerving and distracted driving as key contributors to road crashes, with 827 and 776 cases respectively. Negligence and lack of attention were blamed for another 455 accidents.
The ministry identified a total of 66 causes of road accidents and urged drivers to follow traffic rules and stay alert. Authorities stressed the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness to curb avoidable road tragedies.
