Dubai biker caught at over 290kmph, faces Dh50,000 fee after dangerous stunts
Police warn extreme speeds leave riders with little time to react safely
DUBAI – A motorcyclist filmed travelling at more than 290kmph while performing dangerous stunts has been caught by Dubai Police.
The rider was seen travelling on one wheel and weaving recklessly between vehicles at an extreme speed. Police said specialist traffic patrols identified and apprehended the motorcyclist after the footage emerged online.
The motorcycle was impounded and the rider was referred to the relevant authorities for further legal action. Its release is subject to a Dh50,000 impoundment fee, in addition to other applicable legal procedures under Dubai Decree No. 30 of 2023 on vehicle impoundment.
Extreme speeds
Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Acting Director of the General Department of Traffic, said riding at speeds exceeding 290kmph is among the most dangerous traffic behaviours, putting both the rider and other road users at serious risk.
At such speeds, a motorcyclist has significantly less ability to control the bike, respond to sudden changes or stop safely. Police said this can make a serious crash highly likely within seconds.
A rider who loses control can also be thrown a considerable distance, potentially striking barriers, lamp posts or kerbs, or crossing into oncoming traffic. Such crashes can result in fatal or life-changing injuries, while motorcycle riders have virtually no physical protection compared with occupants of enclosed vehicles.
Dangerous weaving
Brigadier bin Suwaidan warned that weaving between vehicles at excessive speeds creates an unpredictable situation for everyone using the road. A motorist may check that the road is clear before changing lanes, only for a motorcycle travelling at extreme speed to reach the same position moments later.
This leaves both road users with very little time to react or avoid a collision.
Police also highlighted the risks of riding on one wheel, saying the stunt significantly reduces a motorcycle's balance, steering and braking capabilities. Road imperfections, obstacles, crosswinds and changes in surface conditions can further increase the risk of losing control.
Excessive speed can narrow a rider's field of vision, affect distance judgement and slow decision-making, while increasing the force generated in a collision. Police said reckless riding can therefore endanger other motorists and potentially trigger chain collisions when drivers make sudden evasive manoeuvres.
Dubai Police said its smart enforcement systems and field patrols can detect and apprehend reckless drivers and riders. Brigadier bin Suwaidan stressed that roads should not be used for stunts or speed tests and urged motorcyclists to follow traffic laws and ride responsibly.