UAE school year begins with zero road deaths after safety campaign

The UAE recorded zero traffic deaths on the first day of the new school year, Gulf News reported. The Ministry of Interior said 385,700 people joined the "A Day Without Accidents" initiative this year.

What is the UAE's A Day Without Accidents initiative?

The zero fatality result came from the "A Day Without Accidents" initiative, run by the Ministry of Interior through the Federal Traffic Council. Drivers who signed the pledge and followed traffic rules helped keep the roads free of deadly crashes. The campaign targets the first day of school, when road traffic typically rises.

The initiative encourages motorists to commit to safer driving and follow traffic rules, especially during busy periods like the start of the school year.

What do drivers get for joining the pledge?

Eligible motorists who signed the pledge and met all the required conditions were rewarded with a four point reduction in their traffic black points. To qualify, participants had to register for the initiative, sign the official pledge and comply with all stated requirements.

Who announced the results of the campaign?

The announcement came during the fifth meeting of the Federal Traffic Council. Brigadier Engineer Hussein Ahmed Al Harthy, chairman of the council, chaired the session.

The council reviewed traffic fatality figures across the UAE for 2026. The data showed a decline in the number of deaths caused by road accidents.

What else did the Federal Traffic Council discuss?

Members also discussed measures to strengthen road safety and improve the response to traffic accidents and emergencies. The council reviewed the outcomes of traffic initiatives and public awareness campaigns aimed at encouraging motorists to follow road safety rules and promoting safer driving on UAE roads.