Children in Dubai can now learn about road safety and responsible biking in a special “driving school.” This new road safety cycling program, called “Go With The Floooow,” was launched on November 3.
The initiative aims to teach children aged three and older the importance of cycling as a fun and healthy activity.
Families gathered for the launch event at the Ripe Market in Umm Sequim, where excitement filled the air as kids rode around the course, practicing how to navigate fake traffic, stop at signs, and even dress up as police officers to guide their friends.
Those who complete the program can earn a “driving licence” by collecting five stamps, each representing a lesson they have learned.
The ‘driving school’ features interactive stations, including a mock police station for role-playing and a pretend EV charging station to encourage interest in sustainability. There’s also a cleaning station where kids can learn to wash their bikes, blending fun with useful skills.
The program costs Dh60 per child for a 20-minute session, with discounts available for siblings.
Among the attendees were Suzanne and Martijn Boelens, parents of two young participants. Suzanne shared how their children, aged seven and four, were excited to collect their stamps. “Teaching them about cycling safety is important to us, just like we did back in the Netherlands. They love it and want to earn their licences.”
Martijn added, “The kids learn from each other, which is great. It’s not just about racing; it’s about awareness.”
The program’s founder, Barbara Koenen-Geerdink, left her corporate law job in February to start this passion project aimed at improving road safety education for kids. “I wanted to create something meaningful,” she said.
“When I saw my own kids riding bikes, I realized how important it is to teach them about road safety. There’s a gap here, and I wanted to fill it.”
Barbara has also written a children’s storybook featuring a girl named Rosie and her adventures on a bob bicycle. This fun story is part of her vision to combine storytelling with road safety education. Establishing the program involved collaboration with various partners, taking three months to finalize. “When I reached out, I found incredible support,” she noted. “That backing has been crucial.”
Looking ahead, Barbara hopes to expand the program into schools and dreams of creating her own school focused on road safety education. “This initiative allows me to give back to the community while making a real impact. Seeing the kids engaged and excited fills me with pride.”
With plans to extend the program across the GCC, Barbara’s vision is clear: to raise a generation of road-smart young cyclists who can safely enjoy the outdoors.
