Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on the 26th that it has launched an online platform that allows the public to apply for a riding permit for electric scooters for free. The platform will go live and open to the public on April 28.
According to the RTA, there are currently ten regions in the UAE that allow the use of electric scooters.
Those using e-scooters on designated streets will need a permit. Permits are not mandatory for those wishing to use e-scooters off-street, such as cycle lanes or sidewalks, the RTA said.
How to apply for a license?
Obtaining a license requires passing a training course offered on the RTA website and attended by persons who must be at least 16 years of age.
In addition to the areas where e-scooters are permitted, the training sessions include sessions on scooter technical specifications and standards, as well as user obligations.
The course also involves theoretical knowledge of relevant traffic signs and electric scooters.
The new regulations also state that using an e-scooter or any other category of vehicle as determined by the RTA without a driving permit is a traffic offense punishable by a Dh200 fine. This rule does not apply to persons holding a valid vehicle driver’s license or international driver’s license or motorcycle license.
The introduction of these regulations is the implementation of Resolution No. 13 of 2022 approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Executive Council and Crown Prince of Dubai.
It supports efforts to transform Dubai into a bicycle-friendly city and encourages residents and visitors to use alternative modes of mobility. .
Electric scooters will start to operate physically in ten districts of Dubai on April 13, 2022, limited to the following designated lanes:
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
Jumeirah Lakes Towers
Dubai Internet City
Al Rigga
2nd December Street
Palm Jumeirah
City Walk
Safe roads at Al Qusais
Al Mankhool
Al Karama
Electric scooters are also allowed on all cycle and scooter lanes in Dubai, apart from those in Saih Assalam, Al Qudra and Meydan.