New Defensive Driving Course Launched In UAE To Enhance Road Safety For Drivers

In the UAE, the push for improved road safety has taken a significant step forward with the introduction of a Defensive Driving Course by Excellence Driving Centre, recognised by RoadSafetyUAE as a key Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) partner.

Aimed at licensed drivers, including those driving for personal or professional reasons, this course seeks to instill safer and more responsible driving practices. Its launch marks a strategic effort to raise the bar for road safety across the nation, responding directly to the needs voiced by UAE motorists.

Khalid Javed, senior manager operations at Excellence Driving Centre, which has earned the top spot among Dubai's driving schools according to the RTA, sheds light on the essence of defensive driving.

He describes it as a skill set that goes beyond mere knowledge of traffic laws. It involves anticipation of potential hazards, sharp situational awareness, and proactive decision-making to avert accidents.

The course is designed to equip drivers with the ability to maintain safe speeds, manage distances effectively, remain calm under pressure, identify and react to road risks, and navigate the challenges posed by aggressive or careless drivers. In Javed's words, it aims to "transform competent drivers into vigilant, safety-conscious drivers."

Importance of Defensive Driving in the UAE

The significance of defensive driving in the UAE is underscored by Thomas Edelmann, Managing Director of RoadSafetyUAE. He references a survey conducted by YouGov in March 2025, commissioned by General Motors Africa & Middle East in partnership with the SEDRA foundation.

The findings reveal a keen interest among UAE residents, particularly GenZ, in automotive safety education, with 45% expressing a desire to learn defensive driving techniques. Edelmann highlights that, according to Ministry of Interior (MOI) data for 2024, the major causes of road fatalities could have been prevented through defensive driving.

Defensive driving courses hold value for a broad spectrum of drivers. New drivers and young individuals, especially those in their first year behind the wheel or within the 18-30 age bracket, are crucial demographics given their higher incidence of major accidents and fatalities.

Additionally, adult drivers seeking a refresher, seniors aiming to fine-tune their driving skills, commercial drivers meeting job mandates, and anyone looking to reduce insurance rates or clear a traffic ticket can benefit. The US National Safety Council reports dramatic improvements post-training, including a 68% reduction in violations among drivers under 21, a 74% decrease for those aged 21 to 64, and an 85% reduction among drivers over 65.

Both individuals and corporations bear responsibility for road safety. Companies, in particular, are encouraged to send their driving staff, from professional drivers to office commuters, to defensive driving courses. For businesses reliant on vehicle operations, such as logistics, sales, or corporate transport, road safety transcends regulatory compliance.

It's a shared duty to safeguard employees, assets, and the company's reputation. Adopting defensive driving programs yields considerable benefits, including fewer traffic violations and accidents, reduced insurance premiums, lower operational costs, boosted employee morale, and strengthened CSR and road safety commitments.

The course offers a comprehensive learning experience. It features expert instructors with vast road safety expertise, a streamlined digital learning platform for hassle-free registration and certification, and accredited certification recognized by the RTA. With standardized performance assessments, tailored programs for various driving needs, and multilingual instruction, the course is designed to cater to the diverse UAE populace.