Electric scooters are now a familiar sight on Dubai’s roads, providing residents and tourists with a fast, eco-friendly, and convenient mode of transport. However, under new transport safety regulations, all riders using e-scooters in designated areas are legally required to hold a valid permit issued by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
The new policy, which came into effect on April 28, 2022, aims to improve road safety, regulate usage, and prevent accidents involving personal mobility devices.
What is the RTA E-Scooter Permit?
The RTA e-scooter permit is an official digital certificate issued by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority. It confirms that a rider has undergone a short educational course and passed a safety awareness test. The course focuses on safe riding practices, technical standards, traffic signs, and the rules of using e-scooters in urban environments.
The permit is free and available to anyone over the age of 16 who does not already hold a valid UAE or international driver’s licence.
Who Needs the Permit?
The RTA requires the following individuals to hold a permit before riding:
-
Anyone aged 16 years or older
-
Anyone riding an electric scooter in a designated zone who does not already hold a UAE or international driving licence
Those who already have a valid UAE driver’s licence or motorcycle licence are automatically exempt but must carry their licence while riding.
How to Get the E-Scooter Permit
Applying for the e-scooter permit is simple and takes less than an hour. Follow these steps:
-
Visit the RTA website and go to the e-scooter permit section.
-
Register using your Emirates ID (or passport for tourists).
-
Complete the online awareness training.
-
Take a multiple-choice test based on the training module.
-
Once passed, download your permit immediately.
There is no cost for the training or the permit.
Legal Riding Zones in Dubai
E-scooters are only allowed in designated zones approved by the RTA. These include:
-
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
-
Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
-
Al Rigga
-
Dubai Internet City
-
Palm Jumeirah
-
City Walk
-
Safe residential streets in Al Qusais, Al Karama, and Al Mankhool
Riding on pedestrian walkways, jogging tracks, or major roads with a speed limit above 60 km/h is strictly prohibited. Violators are subject to fines and possible confiscation of their scooter.
Fines and Penalties for Non-Compliance
The Dubai Police and RTA have jointly launched awareness campaigns and enforcement drives to ensure compliance. Violations can result in fines, and in some cases, e-scooters may be confiscated.
Here are some key violations and their penalties:
-
Riding without a permit: AED 200
-
Riding outside designated areas: AED 300
-
Not wearing a helmet: AED 200
-
Carrying a second passenger: AED 300
-
Speeding: AED 300
-
Disobeying traffic signals: AED 400
-
Using a mobile phone while riding: AED 200
Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties including court action.
Mandatory Safety Requirements
To legally ride an electric scooter in Dubai, you must follow these safety rules:
-
Wear a helmet at all times
-
Wear a reflective vest or brightly colored clothing at night
-
Your scooter must have working front and rear lights
-
You must have a functional bell or horn
-
Brakes and tyres must be in good condition
-
No passengers allowed
-
Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Scooters must not be overloaded, and riders should keep both hands on the handlebars at all times.
Age Restrictions and Supervision
-
The minimum legal age for riding an e-scooter in Dubai is 16 years.
-
Riders aged 12 to 15 are only permitted to ride under adult supervision and must remain in safe, residential zones.
-
Children under the age of 12 are not allowed to use e-scooters under any circumstances.
Why the RTA Introduced the Permit System
The introduction of mandatory permits came in response to rising e-scooter usage across Dubai, which led to an increase in reported accidents, pedestrian conflicts, and unlawful riding in high-traffic areas.
The goals of the permit system include:
-
Enhancing rider safety and public awareness
-
Ensuring only trained and informed individuals ride
-
Reducing accidents and emergency room admissions
-
Promoting shared responsibility among road users
-
Supporting Dubai’s smart mobility and sustainability goals
Enforcement and Confiscation
Thousands of e-scooters have been confiscated in recent months for violations such as:
-
Operating without a permit or licence
-
Riding in prohibited areas
-
Failing to wear a helmet
-
Ignoring road signs or speed limits
Authorities frequently conduct spot checks in busy areas including Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and beachfront communities. Riders are advised to carry their permit or driving licence at all times.
Dubai’s Vision for E-Scooters
Dubai’s long-term mobility strategy includes integrating e-scooters into its broader transportation system. Future plans include:
-
Expanding legal riding zones
-
Improving shared scooter services
-
Installing charging stations
-
Using geofencing to control speed and restrict zones
-
Creating smart scooter parking zones
The RTA is also working with international partners to benchmark global safety practices and incorporate AI-based traffic solutions.
Summary Checklist for Legal Riding
Use this checklist to ensure you’re compliant:
-
Are you at least 16 years old?
-
Do you have a valid RTA e-scooter permit or UAE/international driving licence?
-
Are you riding only in designated zones?
-
Are you wearing a helmet and visible gear?
-
Is your scooter compliant with safety standards?
If you meet all these criteria, you’re good to go.
Conclusion
E-scooters represent the future of urban mobility in Dubai, but only when operated within the boundaries of the law. The RTA’s mandatory permit system plays a crucial role in ensuring rider safety, traffic order, and shared responsibility on public roads.
If you’re planning to ride, make sure you have the right documentation, wear the proper gear, and stay within approved zones. Getting your RTA permit is quick, free, and a legal obligation.
Ride safe. Ride smart. Ride legal.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow Yalla TV on WhatsApp Channels.
