Dubai Issues Over 63,500 E-Scooter Permits; Launches Safety Awareness Campaign
Authorities in Dubai have issued over 63,500 e-scooter permits since April 2022, making it mandatory for riders. These permits grant individuals aged 16 and above the authorization to use e-scooters in specified districts and streets after completing mandatory training and awareness courses. However, individuals with valid driving licenses are exempt from these courses. An awareness campaign has also been launched by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in collaboration with Dubai Police to promote adherence to safety rules among riders.
Since the start of 2023, authorities have engaged with 3,000 cyclists and e-scooter riders, providing them with information about safety requirements, traffic regulations, and accident prevention tips. In October, Dubai Police reported five fatalities and 29 injuries from e-scooter accidents, resulting in over 10,000 fines issued to riders for traffic rule violations over eight months.
Abdullah Yousef Al Ali, CEO of Traffic and Roads Agency at the RTA, emphasized the importance of adhering to designated speed limits, which vary depending on the area. For example, residential areas and beachfronts have a maximum speed limit of 20kmph, while on lanes shared with vehicles and Meydan streets, the limit is 30kmph. Some lanes, like Seih Al Salam and Al-Qudra, do not have defined speed limits.
Major-General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, director of the General Department of Traffic at Dubai Police, underscored the aim of reducing violations and accidents through education. Riders have been thoroughly educated about traffic regulations, permitted riding lanes, and adherence to security, safety, and regulatory protocols in designated areas. They were also reminded of the importance of wearing helmets that meet safety standards, using reflective vests, and ensuring that bikes and e-scooters are equipped with fully functional brakes, as well as bright, reflective lights at the front and back.
