A Russian influencer, known for his TikTok presence and recent arrest for dangerous driving in Russia, is under fire for his latest stunt on the streets of Dubai. The influencer, whose identity remains undisclosed, was captured in a video performing hazardous driving maneuvers without a valid driving license and while using a mobile phone.
The footage, shared by a Canadian-American prank group, shows the influencer operating a Mercedes G-Class on busy Dubai roads, sitting on the console box, and at times on the driver’s lap. His reckless driving included taking the wheel with one hand while filming with his phone, and neglecting the use of a seat belt.
Thomas Edelmann, Managing Director of RoadSafetyUAE, condemned the actions, citing the grave risks involved. Edelmann referenced Ministry of Interior data indicating distracted driving as a leading cause of deadly accidents in the UAE.
“Distracted driving, lack of seat belt use, and mobile phone usage behind the wheel are serious traffic offenses and a leading cause of fatalities on our roads,” Edelmann stated. He called out the influencer’s behavior as criminal and disgraceful, violating several UAE laws.
The UAE authorities have strict penalties for such traffic violations. Driving without a license can lead to three months in jail and a minimum fine of Dh6,000. Additionally, not wearing a seat belt results in a Dh400 fine, and using a cell phone while driving attracts a Dh800 fine.
Dubai Police have previously highlighted the dangers of mobile phone usage while driving. Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazroui pointed out that a slight distraction could lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Edelmann stressed the need for positive influence from public figures, “We need influencers to promote safety and responsible driving, not the opposite.” He dismissed the influencer’s conduct as indefensible, even though a disclaimer in the video claimed some stunts were done on a closed track.
Authorities have not yet announced any charges or actions against the influencer, but the incident has sparked a conversation about the responsibility of influencers and the impact of their actions on public safety.
