Schools praise UAE traffic campaign that rewards safe driving

UAE schools and traffic authorities have endorsed a new road safety initiative that rewards drivers with the opportunity to remove four black points from their license plates. The program, launched by the Ministry of Interior, sees motorists who commit to remaining accident- and violation-free on their first day of the academic year on August 31, having four black points automatically removed by September 25.

Simon Crane, headmaster of Brighton College Dubai, expressed optimism that the initiative would promote good habits, leading drivers to adopt safer behaviors throughout the school year, particularly during the busy back-to-school period. The campaign urges motorists to avoid speeding, maintain safe distances, and exercise caution while changing lanes or overtaking.

Over 300,000 drivers signed up for the nationwide scheme in 2024, with traffic experts praising the timing of the initiative in light of the rising number of major road accidents in the UAE, which increased by 23% compared to the previous year. Dr Mustafa Al Dah, a leading roads researcher, emphasized the importance of extra vigilance around schools as students return to classes.

The campaign aims to reinforce safe habits like slowing down near schools, avoiding mobile phones, maintaining safe distances, and prioritizing pedestrians, which should be practiced every day.