Dubai Police have impounded 640 bicycles and e-scooters this month for multiple infractions, including speeding, using undesignated areas, riding against traffic, and neglecting to wear helmets and other safety gear.
Authorities stated on Saturday that these riders violated traffic laws and “endangered their own lives and the lives of others.” Maj Gen Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi highlighted that several violations related to e-scooters and bicycles carry substantial fines. For example, riding an e-bike or bicycle on roads with a speed limit over 60kmph incurs a Dh300 fine.
A Dh300 fine also applies to riding a bike in a manner that endangers the rider or others. Carrying a passenger on an e-scooter attracts a Dh300 penalty, while transporting a passenger on an inadequately equipped e-bike or bicycle results in a Dh200 fine. Riding against the flow of traffic also carries a Dh200 fine. Al Ghaithi urged bicycle and e-scooter riders “to adhere strictly to all traffic and safety guidelines.” He encouraged the public to report any dangerous behaviors through the ‘Police Eye’ service on the Dubai Police app or by calling the ‘We Are All Police’ service at 901.
Deaths and Accidents in 2024
Last month, Dubai Police reported four fatalities in separate incidents involving e-scooters and bicycles during the first half of 2024. Additionally, 25 injuries were recorded from January to June this year.
In the first six months of 2024, more than 7,800 traffic violations were documented, and authorities confiscated 4,474 e-scooters and bicycles. This translates to an average of roughly 43 traffic violations and 24 e-scooter or bicycle seizures daily.
Residents Raise Concerns
E-scooters have become increasingly popular among Dubai residents. However, pedestrians and motorists have expressed concerns over reckless riding. Many e-scooter users are seen dangerously navigating streets, often against the flow of traffic.
In a previous interview with Khaleej Times, Fatima El Hamed, an Egyptian resident in Al Majaz, Sharjah, said, “I request authorities to be more vigilant to curb the rise in dangerous behaviors among some riders. Many are seen riding on pedestrian paths, ignoring traffic signals, and even using their devices on highways.”
In March, Dubai Police considered the idea of registering e-scooters. The proposal includes assigning a number plate or unique ID to each e-scooter, along with requiring riders to obtain an individual driving permit. Road safety experts noted, “The move to register e-scooters will help raise awareness that they are not toys but legitimate vehicles taking part in road traffic, which will hopefully result in more considerate and safe riding.”
