Nearly 1,800 cycles, scooters seized in Dubai safety drive

Supplied

A recent traffic safety initiative has led to the seizure of 1,780 bicycles and e-scooters in Dubai's Al Rifa'a area.

The campaign, which began earlier this month, was carried out by Al Rifa'a Police Station, in collaboration with the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police.

It resulted in the confiscation of 1,417 bicycles and 363 electric scooters. These vehicles were being used improperly in non-designated areas, such as public roads and pedestrian pathways, creating significant safety risks.

Brigadier Ghaleb Abdullah Mohammed Al Ghafli, Acting Director of Al Rifa'a Police Station, emphasized the dangers of riding in unauthorized locations.

"Such behaviour disrupts traffic and endangers lives," he said, underlining the importance of ongoing awareness campaigns to educate the public about road safety.

Colonel Muhammad Ahmad Ashkanani, Head of the Traffic Records Section at Al Rifa'a Police Station, outlined these key safety measures for riders:

  • Using designated lanes
  • Avoiding jogging and walking paths
  • Not carrying passengers on electric scooters
  • Not overloading the bike or scooter
  • Equipping vehicles with proper front and rear lights
  • Wearing helmets and reflective vests

In addition to the vehicle seizures, Dubai Police issued 251 fines for violations such as failing to wear helmets, ignoring traffic signals, and lacking essential safety features like reflective clothing.

Police also provided further safety advice aimead at ensuring the safety of road users:

  • Riders must dismount at pedestrian crossings
  • Maintain safe distances from vehicles and pedestrians
  • Avoid making unauthorised modifications to vehicles
  • Refrain from towing or being towed by vehicles
  • Use rear and side lights, especially at night or during adverse weather conditions

Dubai Police are encouraging the public to report unsafe behaviours and illegal activities through the "Police Eye" service on the Dubai Police app or by calling the "We Are All Police" hotline at 901.

More from UAE

  • H.H. Sheikh Mohammed says it's 'ideal time to invest in Dubai'

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has highlighted the endless possibilities Dubai continues to offer, with "AED2.1 trillion worth of projects underway" and more "in the coming phase".

  • Mohammed Al Gergawi honoured for dedicated service

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has awarded the ‘Mohammed bin Rashid Scarf’ to Mohammed Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs, for his dedicated service.

  • Marwan bin Ghalita awarded Mohammed bin Rashid Leadership Medal

    His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, has awarded the first Mohammed bin Rashid Leadership Medal to Eng. Marwan bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality.

  • Sheikh Abdullah reaffirms solidarity with Saudi Arabia

    Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, has reaffirmed the UAE's solidarity with Saudi Arabia during a call with his counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah.