Everything you need to know about RTA e-scooter permits, safety rules, designated riding zones, rental services and penalties in Dubai.
Dubai: Over the past decade, you’ve likely seen a rise in e-scooters around the city. This micro-mobility solution offers a convenient way to get around, especially for short distances, but comes with its own special set of regulations and considerations.
Ensure you’re following the rules, and staying safe, as you zip around Dubai on your e-scooter, with our comprehensive guide below.
E-scooter rules and regulations
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police have strict legislations in place for e-scooter use, in order to ensure public safety, based on Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022. Here’s what you need to know:
Minimum age: The minimum age for riding an electric scooter is 16. This legislation also extends to the use of bicycles and electric bicycles.
Speed limit: The maximum speed limit for e-scooters is set at 20km/h.
Permit: The rider must have a valid permit from the RTA in order to ride the e-scooter legally. However, if you have a UAE driving licence or a valid international driving licence, you are exempt from obtaining this permit.
Safety regulations: The RTA outlines a number of safety-related stipulations for users of e-scooters:
- Wear a protective helmet, appropriate gear and closed-toe, non-slip shoes. Helmets are mandatory for all riders.
- Wear reflective or high-visibility clothing, especially at night, so other road users can see you.
- Do not carry anything heavy that causes an e-scooter to imbalance.
- No passengers are permitted on e-scooters.
- Refrain from using a dual headset or your phone when riding, as it limits awareness and increases the risk of accidents.
- The e-scooter must be manufactured and tailored according to the climatic conditions and specifications of the UAE.
- The e-scooter must comply with the specifications approved by the authorities concerned with setting e-scooter specifications and standards. These include the following: The headlights and rear lights must be in working order, the horn must be fixed on the T-bar or steering arm, the tyres must be roadworthy, and there must be functional brakes on the front and rear tyres.
Road and traffic regulations
As with any other vehicle, e-scooter riders are expected to follow all traffic rules and adhere to road markings. Here are the regulations, outlined by Dubai Police’s Aman Roads service, a smart digital platform designed to promote traffic awareness, improve driver behaviour, and support the Dubai Traffic Safety Strategy 2030:
Follow speed limits: Obey local e-scooter speed limits (a maximum of 20km/h), which may differ from other vehicles, like bicycles, in shared zones. These speed limits will be clearly mentioned on road signs by the RTA.
Maintain safe distance: E-scooter riders must keep a safe distance from other road users.
Give way to pedestrians: Always slow down or dismount at pedestrian crossings or in crowded areas.
Use cycling lane signs: Look out for cycling lane signs – they show you where e-scooters are permitted. Stay within the marked lanes to ride safely.
Watch for no-ride zones: Certain signs indicate areas where e-scooters are prohibited. Avoid these to stay safe and compliant.
Park responsibly: Use designated e-scooter parking spots to avoid cluttering footpaths and receiving a fine.
Use foldable e-scooters when using public transport: Since October 2024, the RTA permits foldable e-scooters on the Dubai Metro and Tram, as long as they adhere to the following stipulations:
- The e-scooter must be foldable and must not have a seat.
- It should not exceed 120cm in length, 70cm in height, and 40cm in width.
- It must weigh no more than 20kg.
How to apply for an e-scooter permit
In order to ride an e-scooter within designated RTA tracks and specified safe zones in Dubai, users must obtain a permit from the authorities. This ensures that all riders are aware of the rules and regulations, contributing to the overall safety and efficiency of the e-scooter initiative.
However, it’s important to note that holders of UAE driving licences, valid international driving licences, or driving licences issued in a country that is on the exception list, are exempt from the requirement of obtaining an e-scooter driving permit, in accordance with the Cabinet and Ministry of Interior resolutions.
You can apply for a driving via the RTA website or RTA Dubai app, or via the Dubai Now app. Follow these steps to apply for an e-scooter permit.
Apply via the RTA website:
- Visit rta.ae and navigate to ‘RTA Services’. Select ‘Apply for an Electrical Scooter Driving Permit’.
- If you don’t have an RTA account or a Traffic File, you must create one before applying for the service. You can do so by logging in with your UAE PASS, or manually entering your Emirates ID or passport details.
- Once you have submitted your Emirates ID or passport details, as well as your personal contact details, the system verifies your identity by sending you a one-time password (OTP). Enter this information.
- Now, you must complete the online theory lectures, and pass the theory test. It takes about 20 minutes to complete the test.
- If you pass, you will receive the electronic permit through the website and by SMS.
Cost: Free
Apply via the RTA Dubai or Dubai Now app:
The process to apply via these apps is similar. Follow these steps:
- Download the RTA Dubai or Dubai Now app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Log in with your UAE PASS.
- Select ‘Services’ and navigate to the ‘Transport’ category. Select ‘Electrical Scooter Permit’.
- Tap ‘Start’ in the Take Training section to review the mandatory theoretical instructions covering safe riding basics, laws, and road rules.
- Take the 20-question multiple-choice theory test. It takes about 20 minutes to complete.
- Once you pass the assessment, you will receive the electronic permit immediately via email, and through the app.
Can I rent an e-scooter in Dubai?
If you don’t own an e-scooter, you can take advantage of e-scooter rental hubs around the city. The RTA has approved two international operators – Dott and Lime – and two local operators – Skurrt and Arnab – to offer e-scooter rental services through their respective mobile apps.
The apps are available for both Apple and Android users, and require you to have an internet connection on your smartphone so you can locate, unlock the e-scooter, and officially end your ride when you’re done. The RTA has integrated e-scooter payments with nol Cards, making it a convenient option for regular users.
Before renting an e-scooter, the RTA recommends the following three-step pre-ride safety check:
- Pump the hand brakes manually to ensure they are working properly.
- Check tyres to verify they are not damaged.
- Visually inspect the body of the e-scooter to ensure there are no cracks or other structural damage.
If the e-scooter is not in working condition, you must inform the operator immediately via the respective app.
Where are dedicated e-scooter zones?
The RTA has introduced e-scooter and cycling lanes in a number of areas around Dubai, with more on the way, as part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Infrastructure upgrades are expected to be delivered across 25 residential communities and around 63 public transport stations by 2030, creating stronger links between neighbourhoods and the wider transport network.
Here are a few locations with dedicated micro-mobility lanes that are currently open to e-scooter users, in Dubai:
Al Khawaneej Cycle Track, Mushrif Park and Al Warqaa
Al Mamzar Cycle Track
Al Mankhool
Al Karama
Al Qusais1
Al Rigga/Muraqabat CT
Business Bay CT- Water Canal
December 2nd Street CT
Downtown – MBR CT
Dubai Greens CT
Dubai Marina CT
Internet City CT
Jumeirah Lake Towers
Jumeirah CT
City Walk CT
MBR Library CT
Al Shindagha Museum CT
Muhaisnah 3
Umm Suqeim 3
Al Garhoud
Umm Hurair First
Al Safa Second
Al Barsha South Second
Al Tawar 2
Al Barsha Third
Al Tawar 4
Al Tawar 1
Violations and fines
The authorities have outlined a number of violations, and related penalties, when it comes to e-scooter use, under the Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022. Here are a few fines to note:
Failure to comply with the speed limits prescribed by the RTA: Dh100
Riding without a valid RTA permit: Dh200
Parking a scooter in non-designated zones, or obstructing pedestrian or vehicle traffic: Dh200
Carrying a passenger on an electric scooter: Dh300
Riding an e-scooter on a road with a speed limit of more than 60km/h: Dh300