Dubai Enhances E-Scooter and Bicycle Safety

Dubai Launches New Unit to Monitor E-scooter and Cyclist Violations

Dubai authorities are taking additional steps to improve transportation safety and ensure the proper use of personal mobility devices with the upcoming launch of the Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit. This new unit aims to oversee the use of e-scooters and bicycles, prevent violations, and promote safe transportation in Dubai’s prominent bicycle lanes and transportation routes.

Joint Initiative for Road Safety

The initiative is being implemented through a collaboration between the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police. The new unit will not only ensure compliance with rules but also help maintain unobstructed traffic flow on bicycle paths. Additionally, they plan to play a vital role in public education, with the goal of making more people aware of the basic rules of safe transportation.

Unit staff will be present at the busiest cycling lanes and on major roads that connect soft mobility zones. Violators will be fined according to current regulations, with penalties reaching up to 300 dirhams—for instance, if someone fails to wear protective gear, rides an e-scooter on a roadway, or travels in the opposite direction unlawfully.

The Numbers Speak for Themselves

The latest joint assessment by the RTA and police took place as part of the 2022-2026 transportation safety strategy. Data shows the use of personal mobility devices, particularly bicycles and e-scooters, is increasing yearly. In 2023, 44 million bicycle rides were registered, expected to rise to 46.6 million in 2024, a 5% increase. E-scooter trips have grown even faster, increasing 8% from 30 million to 32.3 million.

However, the downside of this growth must be noted. Last year, there were 254 accidents involving e-scooter and bicycle users, resulting in 10 fatalities and 259 injuries—including 17 serious ones. This year, 2025, the situation is even more concerning: in February, two fatal e-scooter accidents occurred within three days in the UAE.

Disciplined Traffic Needed

Authorities have long warned that providing infrastructure alone isn’t enough—adherence to rules and strict enforcement is also necessary. Issues include many young people riding without helmets and reflective vests, going against traffic, riding two on a scooter, or traveling without lights in the dark.

In 2024, nearly 40,000 violations were recorded among e-scooter and bicycle users in Dubai. Current regulations prohibit carrying passengers, riding on roadways, mandate the use of designated lanes, and require wearing helmets and other protective gear.

Robots Aid in Enforcing Rules

Dubai is also utilizing technological developments to enhance transportation safety. In the Jumeirah 3 beachfront area, a 200-kg, five-foot-tall robot has been deployed, capable of recognizing violations and assisting in the oversight of safe transportation. This is part of a long-term strategy that prioritizes the smart city concept.

Summary

Dubai is determined to make streets safer for those using personal mobility devices. The new monitoring unit not only sanctions violations but also plays a role in changing perceptions—in a city where technology, mobility, and quality of life go hand in hand.

Enhancing traffic culture and strictly enforcing rules are essential to ensure e-scooter and bicycle transportation does not become a hazard for users or other road users. The change has begun—the only question is, is everyone ready to go along with it?

(The article source is a Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit release.)