Dubai Police have issued a traffic advisory warning motorists of an accident on Sheikh Zayed Road near Mall of the Emirates, urging drivers to remain cautious and expect delays in the affected area.
Dubai Police alert drivers to a traffic accident on Sheikh Zayed Road near Mall of the Emirates
Dubai Police issued an advisory to road users after a traffic collision led to congestion along Sheikh Zayed Road. The incident took place on the stretch heading towards the Mall of the Emirates, affecting vehicle movement during peak hours.
Live traffic updates showed significant congestion, with mapping services marking the affected section in red to indicate slow-moving traffic. Authorities urged motorists travelling through the area to remain alert and follow safety guidelines while navigating the busy highway.
Police also reminded drivers not to become distracted by the accident scene. Slowing down unnecessarily to observe incidents on the road — a practice commonly referred to as rubbernecking — can worsen traffic delays and increase the risk of further crashes. Experts have earlier warned that such behaviour can hinder emergency services and, in certain emirates, may result in penalties including a Dh1,000 fine and the impounding of a vehicle for up to 14 days.
Authorities emphasised that timely information shared through official police channels plays a crucial role in helping motorists make informed travel decisions. By alerting drivers early, traffic authorities aim to reduce congestion, prevent frustration on the roads and minimise the chances of secondary incidents. Motorists were encouraged to use navigation apps, follow official social media updates and consider alternative routes when delays are reported on major highways such as Sheikh Zayed Road.
Traffic experts noted that Sheikh Zayed Road remains one of Dubai’s busiest corridors, carrying thousands of vehicles daily. Even minor accidents can quickly cause bottlenecks due to the high traffic volume. During peak hours, congestion can spread rapidly to feeder roads and nearby interchanges, affecting commute times across the city. Authorities therefore stress the importance of maintaining lane discipline, avoiding sudden braking and keeping a safe distance from other vehicles, especially when approaching areas with reported incidents.
Police also reminded drivers that emergency crews require adequate space to reach accident scenes efficiently. Blocking lanes, stopping unnecessarily, or slowing down excessively can obstruct ambulances, recovery vehicles and patrol units. Motorists were urged to cooperate fully by following instructions from traffic police and roadside responders, ensuring that recovery operations are carried out swiftly and safely to restore normal traffic flow.
Road safety officials reiterated that rubbernecking remains a common but dangerous habit on UAE roads. Drivers who slow down to observe collisions not only increase congestion but also divert attention away from their own driving. This distraction can lead to rear-end crashes and chain-reaction accidents. Authorities continue to warn that traffic laws are strictly enforced, and penalties for unsafe driving behaviours are intended to protect all road users.
In recent years, Dubai Police have expanded their use of smart traffic management systems, including surveillance cameras and real-time monitoring tools, to quickly detect incidents and manage congestion. These technologies allow authorities to dispatch patrols promptly and provide accurate updates to motorists. Officials said such systems are part of broader efforts to enhance road safety and improve traffic efficiency across the emirate’s major highways.
Motorists were also encouraged to plan journeys with flexibility, especially during busy periods or adverse road conditions. Allowing extra travel time, remaining patient and staying informed can significantly reduce stress and improve overall safety. Dubai Police reiterated their commitment to ensuring smooth traffic movement and urged drivers to prioritise caution, cooperation and responsible driving whenever incidents occur on the road.
