The air pollution levels have been rising annually. The primary drivers of increased air pollution are commercial emissions and the daily toxins generated by billions of vehicles. Consequently, electronic vehicles such as e-bikes and e-scooters have grown in popularity over the past few years.
The Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai stated on April 11 that electric scooters would be permitted on certain bicycle routes and in 10 areas within the city of Dubai.
Riders caught driving an electric scooter without valid permits were subjected to a fine of AED 200. According to a new resolution in April this year, those who ride electric scooters are now obliged to acquire a license issued by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
The free permit would enable riders to travel on designated tracks and so-called “safe streets” throughout Dubai. It encompasses eleven districts, including Al Rigga, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Internet City, City Walk, and Palm Jumeirah, among others.
Driving an e-bike comes with several risks, the most significant of which are colliding with cars and pedestrians. In an effort by the reasonable government of Dubai to keep the lives of its people, it has revealed a ban on e-scooters in two parts of Dubai Marina, such as the Marina Walk and Marjan Island.
E-scooter ownership has recently spread enormously in various countries, resulting in much less costly than owning a car and being cost-effective and fast.
The e-scooter permit also covers designated safe roads and tracks in Karama, Al Mankhool, and Al Qusais, as well as access to all cycling and scooter lanes throughout Dubai, excluding the cycling trails in Al Qudra, Meydan, and Saih Assalam.
Here is the information you need to know about how to apply for an e-scooter permit in Dubai, who is eligible, and what the most recent restrictions are for e-scooters in the emirate of Dubai.
What is E-Scooter?
Electric Scooter refers to a device with two or three wheels, handlebars, and a floorboard that may be stood upon while riding and is propelled purely by an electric motor or human power.
Since eScooters are designed for a single rider, their size and manoeuvrability are superior to that of a regular automobile in terms of accessibility and manoeuvrability. With the capacity to fit along narrow streets, sidewalks, trails, and bike lanes, they are an excellent option for individuals seeking a convenient method of daily transportation.
Who Needs This Permit?
People in Dubai who want to ride electric scooters need to have this permission to do so. However, people with a valid driver’s license issued by the country are exempt from obtaining this permit.
Additionally, if you do not intend to ride this scooter on any roads and instead intend to keep to the sidewalks designated for such use, then you do not need permission.
E-scooter riders, whether locals or visitors passing through the area, are required to have this permission, which can be obtained for no cost but is legally binding.
There is a minimum age requirement to use this electric car. This electric scooter can only be driven by those at least 16 years old.
Where will people be allowed to ride electric scooters?
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
- Al Rigga
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers
- December 2 Street
- Dubai Internet City
- The Palm Jumeirah
- City Walk
In addition, they can be utilized on tracks and roads that are not dangerous in the following areas:
- Al Qusais
- Al Karama
- Al Mankhool
Aside from those at Saih Assalam, Al Qudra, and Meydan, they can also be used on tracks specifically designed for bicycles and scooters across Dubai.
According to Mattar Al Tayer, general director and president of the board of executive directors of the RTA, “The choice of these districts was directed by particular criteria, such as highly populated, special development regions, places located near public transport and metro stations, the existence of integrated infrastructure, and regions with a high level of traffic security.”
Requirements for an e-scooter permit in Dubai
Dubai’s requirements for obtaining a license to drive an electric scooter
- You need to be at least 16 years old and not possess a valid driver’s license to apply for an e-scooter permit in Dubai. In Dubai, riders younger than 16 are not permitted to use electric bicycles or e-scooters.
- You will be expected to finish a no-cost e-scooter awareness training course that can be found on the RTA website.
- The training course covers traffic rules, instructions on using e-scooters, the responsibilities of users, and locations where individuals are permitted to ride their e-scooters. Afterwards, you must pass the free online test.
- The entire procedure of obtaining a permit for your electric scooter will not cost you any money.
- E-scooter riders in Dubai must get permission to utilize the ten streets specifically designated for their usage, as stated in a resolution authorized by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, the Crown Prince of Dubai. On the other hand, if you intend to ride your electric scooter on sidewalks or bike paths, you do not require a helmet.
- Similarly, individuals with a valid driver’s license, an international driver’s license, or a motorcycle license do not require a permit to ride electric scooters on some streets.
How to get a permit to ride an electric scooter?
Required documents (for residents)
- A verified Emirates ID number.
- Mobile number
To all guests:
- The mobile phone number is currently operating throughout the UAE.
Passport details.
Step 1: First, complete the application by filling it out.
- Visit the official website and fill out the form.
- Select the “Apply Now” button.
- It will then present you with two options after inquiring whether you have an Emirates ID: “Yes, I have an Emirates ID,” or “No, I’m only a visitor,” are acceptable responses.
- If you are an Emirates resident, you must enter your Emirates ID number and the expiration date.
- After you have finished entering your Emirates ID data, you must then provide your mobile phone number. After that, you will get a one-time password (OTP) sent to your phone by text message. It will become invalid if you do not enter the OTP number within the allotted time.
- Once you have registered for the permit, you will be prompted to provide your email address and select either English or Arabic as your chosen language.
- The application form is now finished being filled out. After that, you will be brought to an online version of the theoretical lesson.
- If you are a tourist, the stages for the application process remain the same; the only difference is that you will need to select “visitor” and put in your passport’s data along with your active cellphone number in the UAE.
Step 2: Complete the theory course offered online.
After completing the application, you will be taken to the online portal, where you will be required to finish the online theory lectures.
The lectures cover ten different themes, including the technical specifications and standards of scooters, the responsibilities of users, and the locations in which it is acceptable to ride a scooter.
Users will also get an understanding of traffic signs, with a particular focus on those indicators that pertain to E-scooter riders.
Step 3: Take the Test
After you have finished the 10 online lectures, the theoretical test can be taken online at your convenience. The RTA estimates that the examination will take between 15 and 20 minutes to complete. To pass the test, you need to earn at least 75%.
Step 4: Obtain the permit to drive an electric scooter.
If you can demonstrate a sufficient understanding of the material included in the online theory test, the RTA will issue you an electronic permit for the E-scooter license. When you have successfully obtained the permission, you must download it and store it on your mobile device.
How to rent E-scooters in Dubai?
As was discussed, you can rent an electric scooter from one of four different companies in Dubai. Install one of the applications on your device, launch it, and it will immediately begin displaying the locations of available scooters in your neighborhood.
If the map does not show any scooter icons, you must zoom out to look at a bigger area. When you get there, scan the QR Code that’s on the bicycles, and then you can go going.
Once you’ve finished, you should park the scooter wherever you go. Then, after you have tapped the screen to stop the meter on the app, you can pay for your parking.
Cost of an E-scooter:
Cost of Renting an E-Scooter To hire an E-scooter, you will need to pay AED 3 upfront, in addition to AED 0.5 (or 50 fils) for every minute you ride it. E-scooters may also be purchased in Dubai for anywhere from 1,700 to 3,000 AED, depending on the type.
Rules you must follow when riding an E-scooter:
- Your minimum age requirement is 16 years old.
- Put on a protective helmet at all times.
- In Dubai, the maximum legal speed for riding an electric scooter is 20 kilometres per hour.
- Please pull over and park the electric scooter in one of the spaces provided.
- Do not drive the electric scooter in a manner that impedes the movement of other cars or pedestrians, and do not leave it parked in such a way.
- Ensure that you keep sufficient space between yourself and other bicyclists and pedestrians.
- If you carry anything that could throw off the balance of the E-scooter, don’t do it.
- You can only ride the scooter alone; no other passengers are allowed.
- Please pay attention to the on-track instructions, restrictions, and warning signs at all times.
- While using the electric scooter, you should refrain from using the dual speakers.
- Do not drive on any lanes other than those specifically designated for electric scooters and shared lanes.
- Ensure that you are wearing appropriate footwear and clothing.
- Please dismount the scooter before crossing any pedestrian crossings, and be sure to obey all traffic regulations while doing so.
Penalties:
You can be severely penalized if you do not comply with the rules and regulations. For example, a punishment of AED 200 may be imposed on you if you are caught riding an electric scooter without a valid license.
If you get pulled over for many offenses within a year, you might have your bike taken away for a month or face a temporary suspension from riding. If the rider is under 18, their parents or other guardians are responsible for paying any fines incurred.
You must park the electric scooter in a specific location at all times. In addition, you will be subject to a fine of AED 200 if an electric scooter obstructs pedestrians or vehicles.
Safety Actions Taken to Prevent Accidents E-scooters in Dubai
The ban seems to be the most recent safety measure implemented to prevent riders from colliding with pedestrians or with each other.
Security guards regularly patrol the marina to ensure that individuals comply with the new rule. Still, they typically do not approach anyone unless they are riding irresponsibly or in an area that has recently been restricted.
The Roads and Transport Authority’s announcement that riders need permission, granted free of charge to all residents and tourists who intend to use e-scooters across Dubai, was a part of the decision to impose the ban. However, the decision also included the imposition of the ban itself.
Long terms use of E-scooters
E-scooters are also fantastic options for people who commute daily. However, there are a few critical parameters that you need to be aware of before deciding to use it for an extended period.
- The scooters are required to feature both taillights and headlights.
- They are required to have horns or other noises of warning.
- In Dubai, the maximum allowed speed for electric scooters is between 15 and 20 kilometers per hour (km/h).
- Before you can ride an electric scooter on a track, you need to ensure that it satisfies all of the technical requirements and standards that are in place.
- It is required that each wheel have working brakes.
- Your e-scooter must have a GPS tag and stay within the boundaries of the area designated for e-scooters.
- Due to the lack of legal ownership paperwork for the car, the cost of the fines may change every time they are assessed.
Best e-scooters in UAE
- Xiaomi Mi Electric Scooter 3
https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B09CPR2J78
Xiaomi electric scooter can travel 30km on a single charge and can support up to 100kg of body weight. Using three-speed levels, from S to D, you can indicate to the e-scooter whether you’re commuting to work, cruising in a park, or riding among pedestrians.
Not only does it have a powerful headlight, which is designed to prevent the scooter from confusing approaching traffic, but it also has red brake light. Regarding braking, the rear 8.5-inch wheel has a dual-pad disc braking system. When not in use, fold the stem in three seconds and transport the 13.2kg scooter with you!
- Segways Ninebot E45 Electric Scooter
https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B08VRX7NJ9
Segway’s stylish Ninebot e-scooter has a maximum speed of 30 kilometres per hour, which may be too quick for some, but it features a triple braking mechanism. In addition to electronic braking, you can travel 45 kilometres on a single charge with strong nine-inch tires.
In addition to having strong rear and front lights, Segway also has lights under the deck, allowing pedestrians to notice you at night readily. A sweet bonus? Your scooter is equipped with a portable external battery, so you never have to worry about running out of juice.
- EVA X2 Pro High-Performance Long Range Electric Scooter
https://www.amazon.ae/dp/B08GC8JH5H
This model is praised for its 10-inch wheels, comfortable ride, and prompt customer service. With eVA’s X2 Pro e-scooter, you won’t experience a choppy ride. Using a simple lever, you can accelerate at up to three speeds and travel 45 to 50 kilometres on a single charge.
To increase safety, the vehicle’s braking system comprises a pedal brake, a disc brake, and an electronic lever brake. It can support a maximum load of 150kg despite weighing only 16.5kg. And the scooter has weak water and dust resistance.
