Road Safety in the UAE & GCC
Practical road safety guides for GCC drivers: summer heat, fog, breakdowns, child seat laws and defensive driving tips.
Safety guides
Summer Driving Safety
Tyre blowout prevention, engine cooling and sandstorm visibility in UAE heat.
Fog Driving Guide
Speed, lights, distance rules and RTA fog alerts for winter driving.
Car Breakdown Procedure
What to do on UAE highways: hazard protocol, who to call, staying safe.
Child Car Seat Law
Age and height requirements, approved seats and non-compliance fines.
Key safety statistics
40%
of fatal crashes involve speeding
30%
involve driver fatigue or distraction
80%+
reduction in child injury with proper car seats
General driving tips
- Keep a safe following distance — at least 2 seconds on city roads, 4 seconds on highways
- Never use your phone while driving. Hands-free is required by law in all GCC countries
- Wear seatbelts at all times — front and rear passengers
- Check tyre pressure and condition before long trips, especially in summer
- Keep an emergency kit in the car: water, warning triangle, torch, first-aid supplies
- Avoid driving when tired. Take a break every 2 hours on long journeys
Road safety — FAQ
What is the most common cause of road accidents in the UAE?
Sudden lane changes, tailgating and speeding are the top causes of serious accidents in the UAE, according to traffic authority data.
Is it legal to use a dashcam in the UAE?
Yes. Dashcams are legal in the UAE for personal use and can serve as evidence in insurance claims or police reports.
What number do I call for a road accident in the UAE?
Call 999 for police in all emirates. For non-emergency roadside assistance in Dubai, call RTA on 800-1900. In Abu Dhabi, call 800-555 for DARB roadside help.