Seven people were killed and nine others injured after a minibus collided with a truck that had stopped in the middle of Emirates Road in Dubai, police said.
Dubai Police said initial investigations indicate the truck came to a sudden halt due to a technical fault. The minibus driver allegedly failed to maintain attention and a safe following distance before crashing into the rear of the stationary vehicle.
Brigadier Juma Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, said the Command and Control Centre received the alert and immediately dispatched traffic patrols and rescue teams to the scene.
He said the crash left seven dead and nine injured, including five in serious condition and four with moderate injuries. All the injured were taken to hospital for treatment.
Traffic teams secured the area, managed vehicle flow, and supported rescue operations, while specialist investigators examined the scene to determine the exact cause of the collision.
Brigadier bin Suwaidan warned against stopping on highways due to breakdowns or mechanical failures, calling it extremely dangerous. He urged motorists to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy before travelling.
He also advised drivers facing breakdowns to activate hazard lights, place a warning triangle at a safe distance, ensure passenger safety by moving away from the vehicle, and contact police immediately.