Death by Delivery? 18 Riders Killed in Dubai in 2024
Dubai Police recorded 77,227 traffic violations involving delivery motorcycles
Authorities reported on Wednesday that up to 18 delivery riders have lost their lives in accidents on Dubai roads this year. In 2024, Dubai Police recorded 77,227 traffic violations involving delivery motorcycles, an increase from 60,471 in 2023.
Over the last four years, 181 delivery riders experienced severe injuries due to road accidents. Data suggests that these incidents were mainly caused by sudden lane changes, distractions on the road, and overtaking from the shoulder, all of which create risks for both the riders and others.
Traffic Rules for Bikers in Dubai
- Bikers must wear helmets at all times to avoid severe penalties and ensure safety.
- Stick to motorcycle-specific lanes and never ride on pedestrian paths, which is strictly prohibited.
- Always follow speed limits and traffic signals, even if roads appear clear or less crowded.
Road Safety Precautions for Bikers
Inspect your bike’s brakes, tires, and lights before every ride to avoid mechanical failures. Keep a safe distance from vehicles to prevent collisions caused by sudden braking or swerving. Use headlights at night or in poor weather to stay visible and avoid accidents. Stay alert and avoid distractions like mobile phones or earphones while riding.
Fines for Traffic Violations in the UAE
Riding without a helmet results in a fine of AED 500 and four black points. Exceeding speed limits can cost AED 300 to AED 3000, depending on the overspeed amount. Running red lights incurs AED 1000, 12 black points, and may lead to bike impoundment—reckless riding results in AED 2000, 23 black points, and temporary seizure of your motorcycle.
How You Can Contribute
There is no need to rush your orders. When you receive a notification that the rider is on its way to you, ask the rider to ride carefully. You can tell the rider that there’s no need to rush. The rider should adhere to all traffic rules and ensure their safety at all costs.
If you apply pressure on the rider or call repeatedly, the rider will feel pressure and ultimately compromise his safety to deliver the order quickly. This type of situation should be avoided.