UAE launches ‘Accident-Free Day’ initiative as new school year begins

Dubai: The Ministry of Interior has invited the public to participate in the nationwide “Accident-Free Day” initiative, which will take place on 31 August, coinciding with the first day of the 2026-2027 academic year.The initiative, organised by the Ministry of Interior through the Federal Traffic Council in coordination with police forces across the UAE, aims to promote traffic safety awareness and encourage compliance with traffic laws and regulations.Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police and Head of the “Accident-Free Day” initiative, stressed the importance of motorists and parents adhering to traffic rules, particularly with increased vehicle movement around schools at the start of the academic year.He called on road users to demonstrate patience, responsibility and cooperation to help create a safe environment for students, parents and all road users.Registration for the initiative opens on 17 August through the link published on the Ministry of Interior’s social media account @MOIUAE.Brig. Bin Suwaidan urged motorists to register, sign the initiative’s pledge and comply with all approved terms and conditions.He noted that eligible motorists can receive a reduction of four traffic black points, subject to meeting the initiative’s requirements.The initiative forms part of the Ministry of Interior’s broader strategy to enhance road safety and promote responsible driving behaviour across the community.Brig. Bin Suwaidan said the campaign focuses on educating motorists about essential road-safety practices, including:Ensuring vehicles are safe and roadworthy before travelAdhering to speed limits, particularly near schoolsAvoiding distractions and refraining from using mobile phones while drivingStaying within designated lanesMaintaining a safe distance between vehiclesGiving priority to pedestrians at crossingsHe praised the high level of compliance shown by road users during previous editions of the initiative and commended the community’s positive engagement with traffic-safety campaigns.The initiative targets all road users and aims to reduce traffic fatalities, increase awareness and encourage drivers to avoid violations and unsafe behaviours.Brig. Bin Suwaidan called on the public to make 31 August a model day for compliance and responsible driving, stressing that the true success of the initiative lies in turning safe driving practices into a daily habit that helps protect lives and make roads safer for everyone.