An analysis of 2,771 motor insurance claims filed during last year’s holy month reveals distinct crash patterns, including high-risk weekdays, the most affected age groups, and periods when drivers are most vulnerable.
UAE Road Accidents Spike Before Iftar During Ramadan, 2–4pm Most Dangerous
Accidents in the UAE surge in the hours leading up to iftar during Ramadan, with 2pm to 4pm emerging as the most dangerous window, according to an analysis of 2,771 motor insurance claims filed during last year’s holy month.
The data, covering the period from March 1 to 29, 2025, was jointly analysed by Al Wathba Insurance and RoadSafetyUAE to identify trends and raise awareness ahead of Ramadan.
According to the findings, 43 per cent of accidents occurred between noon and 6pm, followed by 28 per cent between 6pm and midnight. The two-hour window from 2pm to 4pm alone accounted for 17 per cent of all claims, making it the single most accident-prone period of the day.
Looking at weekly trends, Mondays and Thursdays recorded the highest accident rates at 17 per cent each, while Sundays were the safest day, accounting for just 9 per cent of claims.
UAE Road Accidents Spike Before Iftar During Ramadan; 2–4pm Most Dangerous
Dubai: Accidents in the UAE surge in the hours leading up to iftar during Ramadan, with 2pm to 4pm emerging as the most dangerous window, according to an analysis of 2,771 motor insurance claims filed during last year’s holy month.
The data, covering March 1 to 29, 2025, was jointly analysed by Al Wathba Insurance and RoadSafetyUAE to identify trends and raise awareness ahead of Ramadan.
Key Findings
- Time of Day: 43 per cent of accidents occurred between noon and 6pm, followed by 28 per cent between 6pm and midnight. The 2–4pm window alone accounted for 17 per cent of all claims, making it the single most accident-prone period of the day.
- Days of the Week: Mondays and Thursdays recorded the highest accident rates at 17 per cent each, while Sundays were the safest day at 9 per cent.
- Responsibility: In more than 65 per cent of accidents, a third party was at fault, while 35 per cent were attributed to the policyholder.
- High-Risk Age Group: Drivers aged 36 to 40 were identified as the most at-risk, accounting for 24 per cent of claims.
Expert Insights
Muralikrishnan Raman, Chief Financial Officer of Al Wathba Insurance, said:
“We collect a significant amount of claims data which we thoroughly analyse, and we want to share key findings for the benefit of the people and society in the UAE. The Ramadan period poses specific challenges to UAE road users, and we want to contribute to keeping everyone safe on the roads.”
Thomas Edelmann, Founder and Managing Director of RoadSafetyUAE, highlighted the physiological challenges of fasting, noting that dehydration, low blood sugar, disrupted sleep, and fatigue can reduce attentiveness, reaction time, and concentration, increasing road risks.
Ramadan Safe Driving Tips
Edelmann urged motorists and all traffic participants to take precautions during the holy month:
- Be aware of your own limitations
- Watch for other traffic participants potentially affected by fasting
- Drive defensively and expect the unexpected
- Plan for delays and add extra travel time
- Always wear your seat belt
- Be extra cautious between noon and iftar
- Keep a safe distance; do not tailgate
- Plan schedules to avoid rushing and speeding
- Avoid roads at sundown if possible
- Use lights during dusk
- Ensure adequate rest; avoid fatigue
- Pull over immediately if drowsy
- Use public transport or taxis where possible
- Be considerate of fasting road users
- Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists should exercise extra caution
