Biker summoned for driving at 290km/h, performing stunts in Dubai

Dubai Police has summoned a motorcyclist filmed riding at speeds exceeding 290 km/h while performing dangerous stunts, including riding on one wheel and weaving between vehicles, reaffirming its zero-tolerance approach to behaviour that endangers lives on the road. Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic, said specialist traffic patrols identified and apprehended the rider after the footage surfaced. Legal action included impounding the motorcycle and referring the rider to the competent authorities. Under Dubai Decree No. 30 of 2023 on vehicle impoundment, the motorcycle can only be released after payment of a AED50,000 impoundment fee, in addition to other applicable legal procedures. Deadly combination Brigadier bin Suwaidan said riding a motorcycle at such extreme speeds is among the most dangerous traffic offences, posing a serious risk to both the rider and other road users. He said speeds exceeding 290 km/h drastically reduce a rider’s ability to control the motorcycle, respond to sudden road changes or stop safely, significantly increasing the likelihood of a catastrophic crash. Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic. (Dubai Police) A rider who loses control at such speeds can be thrown a considerable distance and may strike barriers, lamp posts or kerbs, or cross into oncoming traffic, leading to fatal or life-changing injuries. Unlike occupants of enclosed vehicles, motorcyclists have virtually no physical protection in a collision. Extreme risk to other road users Brigadier bin Suwaidan warned that weaving between vehicles at excessive speeds creates a highly dangerous and unpredictable situation for all road users. A driver may change lanes after checking that the road is clear, only for a speeding motorcycle to reach the same position within moments, leaving neither road user enough time to avoid a collision. He added that riding on one wheel is among the most dangerous stunt manoeuvres, as it significantly reduces balance, steering and braking capability while increasing the risk of losing control due to road imperfections, obstacles, crosswinds or changing road conditions. No tolerance for reckless driving Brigadier bin Suwaidan said excessive speed narrows a rider’s field of vision, impairs distance judgement and slows decision-making, while greatly increasing the force of any collision. Such behaviour endangers not only the rider but also other motorists and can trigger chain-reaction crashes caused by sudden evasive manoeuvres. He emphasised that Dubai Police’s smart enforcement systems and field patrols are fully capable of detecting and apprehending reckless drivers and riders, stressing that road safety is a shared responsibility. “The road is not a place for stunts or speed tests,” he said, urging motorcyclists to comply with traffic laws and ride responsibly to protect themselves and others.