To ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road, it is crucial to adhere to a set of rules when riding an e-scooter. Riding against the flow of traffic is strictly prohibited, as is carrying a passenger. Additionally, it is essential to restrict your e-scooter usage to designated areas.
These rules are of utmost importance, as highlighted by Dubai Police’s recent alert on e-scooter safety. Shockingly, over the past eight months, there have been five fatalities and 32 recorded accidents involving e-scooters and cycles. These alarming statistics were released by Dubai Police on Tuesday, October 24. Furthermore, during this period, a staggering 10,031 fines were issued to individuals using electric bicycles and e-scooters.
It is imperative that e-scooter riders take these rules seriously to ensure their own well-being and to prevent any harm to fellow road users. By following these guidelines, we can collectively create a safer environment for everyone.
In recent years, e-scooters have gained immense popularity among residents due to their affordability and user-friendly nature. However, it is crucial to note that improper usage or disregard for regulations can result in penalties, confiscation of the e-scooter, and in severe instances, even injuries or fatalities.
To guarantee your safety and that of those around you, we present a comprehensive guide outlining the regulations governing the use of e-scooters in Dubai.
Does one need a permit to ride an e-scooter in Dubai?
According to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), possessing a valid driving license grants you an exemption from acquiring an e-scooter permit. However, it is essential to keep your driving license handy while riding the electric scooter and present it to a police officer upon request.
In the event that you do not possess a driving license, it becomes necessary to apply for an e-scooter permit.
How to apply for an e-scooter permit in Dubai?
To apply for the permit, simply visit RTA’s official website at rta.ae. The application process is completely free of charge. All you need to do is complete a series of online training courses and successfully pass a test.
Upon passing the test, you will be granted an electronic permit for your e-scooter license, which can be obtained through the RTA website. Once you have obtained the permit, it is important to download and save it on your mobile device for future reference.
Does one have to follow a speed limit?
The RTA claims that depending on the location, different bike, and e-scooter paths have different speed limits:
- 20 km/h on approved routes near homes and beaches.
- 30 km/h on streets shared with automobiles and the Meydan track.
Where can one use the e-scooter?
Certain areas in Dubai have dedicated lanes for e-scooters and bicycles. Kite Beach, the Dubai Water Canal, Jumeirah Street, and Al Marsa Street in Dubai Marina are a few of these locations.
However, only cyclists are permitted to use locations like the Meydan Track, Mushrif Mountain Bike Trail, and Al Qudra Cycling Track. The RTA advises against using the e-scooter in areas that aren’t designated for it.
How old does one have to be to ride an e-scooter?
In Dubai, e-scooters are restricted to riders who are 16 years of age or older. This is in accordance with Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022, which was released in March 2022 by Dubai’s Crown Prince and Executive Council Chairman, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
14 traffic signs you should know
According to the Road and Transport Authority (RTA), there are specific ground markings and traffic signs that e-scooter riders must adhere to in order to ensure their safety.
The RTA, in collaboration with the Dubai Police, has identified that the majority of incidents involving e-scooters occur due to riders neglecting basic safety rules. The most common violations include failure to wear the necessary safety gear, riding in the wrong direction, and unauthorized use of designated vehicle paths.
It is of utmost importance for e-scooter riders to always keep these fundamental rules in mind, not only for their own safety but also for the safety of other road users:
- Ride on designated tracks, follow traffic instructions and regulations, and pay attention to warning signs on the tracks.
2. Avoid riding e-scooters outside of designated or shared lanes.
3. Refrain from reckless driving that puts the public at risk.
4. Maintain a safe distance between e-scooters, bicycles, and pedestrians.
5. Wear a helmet and a reflective jacket for enhanced visibility.
6. Do not carry any items or passengers that may disrupt the balance of the e-scooter.
7. When approaching a pedestrian crossing, dismount from the e-scooter and walk across the designated area.
8. Ride the e-scooter individually and ensure that you are at least 16 years old.
9. Obtain the necessary e-scooter driving permit or carry your valid driving license.
10. Avoid using headphones while riding.
By adhering to these guidelines, e-scooter riders can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and contribute to a safer environment for everyone on the road.
Fines you face for violating rules
Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022 outlines the violations and corresponding penalties related to the use of e-scooters and similar vehicles in the emirate.
According to this resolution, the following fines are applicable to e-scooters:
- Dh200 – Riding against the flow of traffic.
• Dh300 – Riding a pedal cycle or an electric bike on a road with a speed limit exceeding 60 kmph.
• Dh200 – Failure of a cyclist to adhere to the requirement of riding only in designated cycle lanes determined by the RTA.
• Dh300 – Riding a cycle in a manner that jeopardizes the safety of the cyclist or others.
• Dh200 – Riding or leaving a cycle on a path designated for walking or jogging.
• Dh200 – Operating an electric scooter or any other type of cycle determined by the RTA without obtaining a rider’s permit.
• Dh300 – Carrying a passenger on an electric scooter.
• Dh200 – Carrying a passenger on a pedal cycle or an electric bike without the necessary equipment, or failure of the cyclist or passenger to wear the required vest and helmet.
• Dh100 – Failure to comply with the speed limits set by the RTA for cycle lanes.
• Dh200 – Failure of a cyclist to meet the security and safety requirements outlined in Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022 and the subsequent resolutions.
• Dh300 – Riding a cycle that does not meet the technical requirements specified in this Resolution and the subsequent resolutions.
• Dh200 – Improperly parking a cycle in unauthorized areas or in a manner that obstructs vehicle or pedestrian traffic, posing a hazard to road users.
In order to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals using e-scooters and other similar vehicles, it is crucial to adhere to these regulations and avoid incurring these fines.
- Dh200 – Failure to comply with the instructions displayed on the information signs on roads and cycle lanes.
• Dh200 – Failure to dismount the bicycle when crossing a pedestrian lane.
• Dh300 – Failure by a cyclist to report any accident causing injury or material damage to the RTA, Dubai Police, or ambulance service.
• Dh200 – Riding a pedal cycle or electric bike on the left-hand side of the road or changing lanes without ensuring road clearance.
• Dh300 – Parking, driving, or obstructing traffic on a designated cycle lane.
• Dh300 – Towing a bicycle with a vehicle or using the bicycle for towing purposes.
