Pedestrians cross the Al Rigga Road at an undesignated area on November 3, 2025. EXPAT MEDIA

Motorists and residents in Dubai’s Al Rigga area are raising concerns over the growing number of jaywalkers risking their lives on the busy main road. On Monday (November 3), Expat Media observed multiple jaywalking incidents along Al Rigga Road, a popular stretch in Deira lined with hotels, restaurants, and residential buildings. Within just one minute, at least nine pedestrians were seen dashing across the road instead of using the designated crossings. “It’s a very busy road with lots of vehicles passing through at high speeds, but people are still crossing in undesignated areas,” a motorist told Expat Media. “I’ve encountered them many times in the past month, and I have to drive extra carefully just in case someone makes a dash on the road.” Another resident expressed frustration, saying, “I don’t understand why they can’t spend a minute just walking to the nearest pedestrian crossing because there are plenty on this road. They’d rather risk their life than use the crossing.” There are at least five pedestrian crossings along Al Rigga Road in both directions, but residents say many pedestrians still choose to take shortcuts, particularly during peak hours. A longtime resident, who requested anonymity, said the issue has worsened recently. “Jaywalking has become very common here. You see people crossing randomly all the time,” the resident shared. Traffic in Al Rigga has intensified in the area. The surge in both pedestrian and vehicle movement has made the road a potential danger zone, residents said. Under the UAE’s revised federal traffic law, jaywalking carries a fine of Dh400. However, violators who cause traffic accidents now face penalties of up to Dh10,000. In areas where the speed limit is 80 km/h or higher, the law imposes even stricter consequences — a minimum of three months in jail and/or a fine of at least Dh10,000. “These stricter laws will not only protect motorists but also pedestrians. It is a crucial step toward making UAE roads safer for all,” the UAE government stated in a previous announcement. Authorities have repeatedly urged pedestrians to use footbridges, zebra crossings, and signal-controlled walkways to ensure their safety and avoid hefty penalties. ICA/Expat Media
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