Teens Caught Racing E-Bikes in Dubai

Teens Race at 100 km/h on E-Bikes in Dubai – Police Intervene

Electric bikes and scooters are increasingly gaining ground worldwide, and Dubai is no exception. These vehicles offer a convenient, eco-friendly solution for short-distance travel, but if not used properly, they can cause serious traffic safety issues. The recent action by the Dubai Police spotlighted this problem when some teenagers were caught speeding at over 100 km/h on e-bikes along the jogging tracks.

What Exactly Happened?

The Dubai Police received complaints from residents across several city districts, including Nad Al Sheba, about teenagers dangerously and illegally riding e-bikes on community sports tracks and promenades. As a result of their investigation, authorities confiscated 101 modified electric bicycles capable of exceeding 100 km/h. This not only represents a violation of rules but also poses a severe threat to traffic safety.

The police issued 130 traffic fines within a single week for these offenses. The vehicles were altered to travel at speeds far exceeding the factory settings. These devices are mainly intended for recreational use or short urban commutes—not for race tracks.

Parental Responsibility and Community Dialogue

The police have not only addressed the youth involved but have also appealed to parents. The parents of the teenagers in question were summoned by the authorities to personally highlight the consequences of unsupervised use. According to the Dubai Police, it is primarily the parents' responsibility to educate their children about the basics of safe navigation, especially considering electric vehicles, which are often used for fun but can pose real danger to pedestrians and the users themselves.

One of the key messages was that such vehicles should only be used on designated bike paths and that wearing proper protective gear—helmet, reflective vest—is essential.

Dramatic Statistics on E-Scooter and E-Bike Accidents

In the first five months of 2025, 13 fatalities occurred in Dubai due to improper use of electric scooters or bicycles and illegal pedestrian crossings. This marks a significant increase compared to the previous year, which registered 10 such fatalities all year. Additionally, 254 accidents were recorded, injuring a total of 259 people.

These numbers disturb both the authorities and the public. An intense debate has arisen on social media and community forums: some call for stricter regulations or even a ban in residential areas, while others argue that this would be a disproportionate response, especially against those who responsibly use these devices as an alternative mode of transport.

Why Are E-Bikes So Popular?

Electric bikes and scooters are becoming increasingly popular because they are fast, relatively inexpensive to maintain, and fit well into urban lifestyles. For many Dubai residents, these vehicles are tools for daily commuting—particularly for those who do not own a car or do not wish to use public transport. Given the hot weather and long distances, e-bikes can offer a convenient solution, but only when used safely and responsibly.

How to Reduce the Number of Accidents?

The solution isn't necessarily a ban. According to the Dubai Police and other authorities, clarifying rules, enhancing monitoring, and community education might be key. The following measures are expected to be considered:

Banning and stricter monitoring of modified e-bikes.

Introducing and enforcing speed limits.

Designated zones for electric vehicles, with signs and road markings.

Community campaigns and school programs to educate youth.

Sanctions not only towards users but also negligent parents.

The Future Direction: Regulated Micromobility

Micromobility, or short-distance, low-speed travel using electric vehicles, is inevitably part of the cities of the future. Dubai's ambition to become a smart and green city requires the integration of such transport methods. However, this can only be realized if their use does not endanger other road users or disturb community life.

The current incident serves as a wake-up call for both parents and regulatory bodies, emphasizing that technological innovations only offer true benefits when backed by regulation, awareness, and responsible attitudes.

The quick action of the Dubai Police is exemplary, but in the long run, the goal is not more fines but fewer accidents. And for that, shared responsibility is required from everyone—users, parents, and policymakers.

(Source of the article is a statement from the Dubai Police.)