Dubai Police have confirmed that driver error was the cause of an SUV crashing into a store at the Spinneys shopping complex in Jumeirah earlier this week. Thankfully, no major injuries were reported from the incident.
The crash took place on Umm Al Sheif street in Umm Suqeim, startling nearby shoppers and residents. According to Dubai Police, the vehicle lost control and entered the store after the female driver mistakenly pressed the accelerator instead of the brake.
Brigadier Jumaa Salem bin Suwaidan, Director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, said preliminary investigations showed that sudden confusion behind the wheel led to the mishap. “The driver pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake, resulting in the accident,” he confirmed.
Authorities emphasized that while no injuries occurred, both the storefront and the SUV sustained damage. Brigadier bin Suwaidan reminded drivers of the importance of staying calm and alert while driving, checking their seating position, and ensuring their feet are correctly aligned on the pedals.
“This incident is a reminder of the need for drivers to maintain complete focus and avoid sudden panic reactions behind the wheel,” he said.
Following the incident, Spinneys issued a statement confirming that it was carrying out a “safety review” of the affected community centre. The review aims to identify short- and long-term measures to reduce the likelihood of similar accidents.
“We remain steadfast in our efforts to ensure the safety and security of all our locations,” the company said. “We will continue to monitor the situation and follow the guidance of authorities and experts.”
Residents who witnessed the aftermath expressed shock. Dubai resident Ninu H., who lives nearby, visited the complex later in the day and described the scene. “The area had been cordoned off by officials when I went. It was shocking to think that there were people inside the car and the shop,” she said.
The vehicle remained at the site for several hours after the crash, while police and safety personnel inspected the area.
Local authorities and the retailer have since reassured the public that safety remains a top priority. Investigations are ongoing, but early findings confirm that the accident was the result of human error rather than any mechanical failure.
As Dubai continues to grow as a bustling urban hub, incidents such as these highlight the importance of driver attentiveness and community safety measures. Both police and businesses are urging residents to take extra caution on the roads and in public spaces.