Electric Scooter Ridding Rules in the UAE (2026)
By Escooterae.com
January 19, 2026
Electric scooters are now part of daily life in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah. They are affordable, eco-friendly, and practical for short trips. At the same time, authorities have introduced strict rules to reduce accidents and keep riders and pedestrians safe. This guide explains the current e-scooter rules, fines, and approved riding zones across the Emirates.
Table of Contents
- General Rules for Riding E-Scooters in the UAE
- Technical Requirements for Scooters
- Fines and Penalties
- Dubai: RTA Rules and Approved Zones
- Abu Dhabi: ITC Guidelines
- Sharjah: Stricter Restrictions
- Safety and Enforcement
- Electric Scooter Rules in the UAE: Do’s and Don’ts
- Future Outlook
- FAQs
General Rules for Riding E-Scooters in the UAE
The UAE has set clear standards for safe scooter use:
- Minimum age: 16 years.
- Helmet: Mandatory for all riders. Reflective vests are strongly advised.
- Speed limit: 20 km/h in most designated areas. Some shared tracks allow up to 25 km/h.
- Passengers: Not allowed. Scooters are for single riders only.
- Where to ride: Cycle tracks, safe roads with limits of 30 km/h or less, and approved scooter zones. Highways and pedestrian-only areas are banned.
- Parking: Scooters must be left in designated parking spots without blocking walkways.
- Distractions: Using phones or headphones while riding is prohibited.
- Crossings: Riders must dismount and walk scooters across pedestrian crossings.
These rules are part of the UAE’s wider micromobility framework, managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in Dubai and the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) in Abu Dhabi.
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Technical Requirements for Scooters
The RTA has issued technical standards for all scooters:
- Front and rear lights in working order.
- A horn fixed on the handlebar.
- Brakes on both wheels.
- Tyres suitable for UAE roads.
- Maximum speed capped at 20 km/h.
- Manufactured to withstand local weather conditions.
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Fines and Penalties
Authorities issue fines for violations. Here is a breakdown:
| Violation | Fine (AED) |
|---|---|
| Riding without a helmet | 200 |
| Carrying passengers | 300 |
| Riding in banned zones or highways | 500 |
| Riding without an RTA permit (Dubai) | 200 |
| Ignoring traffic signs | 200 |
| Riding without lights at night | 200 |
Scooters may also be confiscated for repeated violations. In 2024, Dubai Police seized more than 3,700 scooters, bicycles, and e-bikes for unsafe use.
Dubai: RTA Rules and Approved Zones
Dubai has the most advanced system for e-scooters. The RTA requires riders to hold an e-scooter permit unless they already have a UAE driving license, motorcycle license, or international license.
Approved riding zones include:
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
- Dubai Internet City
- Al Rigga
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
- City Walk
- Palm Jumeirah
- 2nd of December Street
- Residential communities like Mirdif, Al Karama, Al Safa, Al Garhoud, and Al Barsha
In 2025, Dubai launched a Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit in partnership with Dubai Police. Officers patrol scooter tracks, enforce helmet use, and issue fines.
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Abu Dhabi: ITC Guidelines
The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) regulates scooters in Abu Dhabi.
- Scooters are allowed in selected areas, including the Corniche and residential zones.
- Riders must wear helmets and follow the 20 km/h speed limit.
- Scooters must meet technical standards similar to Dubai.
- ITC runs awareness campaigns to educate riders about safe use.
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Sharjah: Stricter Restrictions
Sharjah has taken a more cautious approach:
- Scooters are banned on main roads.
- Only allowed in parks and designated cycle tracks.
- Police regularly seize scooters used outside approved areas.
- Riders under 14 are not allowed to use scooters in public spaces.
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Safety and Enforcement
Authorities are serious about safety. In 2024, Dubai recorded 254 accidents involving scooters, electric bikes, and bicycles, leading to 10 deaths and 259 injuries.
Parents can be held responsible if minors ride illegally and cause accidents. Dubai Police also encourage residents to report unsafe riding through the “Police Eye” app and “We Are All Police” hotline.
Electric Scooter Rules in the UAE: Do’s and Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Wear a helmet and reflective gear | Don’t ride on highways or pedestrian-only areas |
| Stick to cycle tracks and approved zones | Don’t carry passengers |
| Follow traffic signs and signals | Don’t exceed 20 km/h |
Pro Tip: Read our article if you’re unsure whether to choose an electric scooter or an electric bike.
🔗 Read here:
👉 Electric Scooter vs Electric Bike – Which Is Better?
Future Outlook
The UAE is expanding scooter-friendly infrastructure and linking tracks with metro and bus stations. Authorities are also testing smart monitoring systems to track violations. The long-term goal is to integrate scooters into the wider transport network while keeping safety as the top priority.
FAQs
Can tourists ride e-scooters in the UAE?
Yes — tourists can ride e-scooters in approved zones across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Always follow local rules.
Can children ride e-scooters in the UAE?
No. Minimum age is typically 16+, and Sharjah is stricter.
What happens if I get caught on my electric scooter?
Fines, warnings, or confiscation depending on the violation.
Do I need to register my scooter in Dubai?
Registration isn’t always required, but an RTA permit is strongly recommended.
How to get a permit for an electric scooter?
Permits are available via the RTA Dubai App or approved testing centers.
