6 January 2026| Dubai, UAE (Posted at 8:54 pm]
E-scooter fine in UAE: Electric scooters are becoming a common vehicle in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as they offer a convenient and affordable option for short trips and last-mile commuting. However, there is also an increase in violations and accidents with increased usage, which makes many riders confused about what is legal and what could lead to heavy fines.
Why People Are Confused About E-Scooter Rules in Dubai
Many riders depend on the outdated information based on earlier pilot phases. However, rules have been updated under Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022, and enforcement has intensified over time. Therefore, people became confused about licenses, permits, Metro access, and UAE e-scooter fines.
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Old Rules (Before Enforcement Tightening)
E-scooter usage in the UAE followed the following relaxed norms before stricter monitoring and public safety campaigns:
- Limited enforcement of permits and helmet use
- Minimal checks on riding zones
- Fewer confiscations despite violations
- Lower public awareness of fines and legal liability
- Unclear rules on carrying e-scooters on public transport
Earlier, many riders assumed e-scooters were allowed everywhere as long as they were not on highways. Now, it has changed with stricter rules and UAE e-scooter fines.
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New Rules (After Update & Current Enforcement)
E-scooter regulations are now strictly enforced to improve road safety. Below are the updated rules of 2026:
Eligibility & Speed
- Minimum age: 16 years (as per Executive Council Resolution No. 13 of 2022)
- Maximum speed limit: 20 km/h
- Riders must follow designated lanes only
Permit & Licensing
- An RTA permit is mandatory for riders without a UAE driving licence
- The permit is free and issued after completing online training and a short test via the RTA website
Safety & Equipment Requirements
You must do the following action:
- Wear a helmet and proper clothing
- Maintain a safe distance from others
- Avoid using dual headsets
- Dismount at pedestrian crossings
E-scooters must have the following tools:
- Front and rear lights
- A fixed working horn
- Roadworthy tyres
- Functional front and rear brakes
Public Transport Rules
According to RTA updates, foldable e-scooters are allowed on the Dubai Metro and Tram if they have the following things:
- Foldable and seat-free
- Do not exceed 120cm x 70cm x 40cm
- Weigh 20kg or less
It is important to note that these rules apply during all operating hours in the Dubai Metro and the Dubai tram.
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Key Differences: Old vs New Rules
| Aspect | Earlier Phase | Current Rules (2026) |
| Permit enforcement | Minimal | Mandatory (Dh200 fine if absent) |
| Speed limit | Poorly enforced | Strictly capped at 20 km/h |
| Riding zones | Unclear | Designated lanes only |
| Helmet use | Often ignored | Compulsory |
| Metro/Tram rules | Conflicting | Allowed only if foldable & within size limits |
| Penalties | Rare | Heavy fines & confiscation |
Common E-Scooter Violations and Fines in the UAE
There are many types of fines for e-scooters in the UAE. However, each emirate has different types of fines. Below is the list of the most common types of fines:
- Riding without an RTA permit in Dubai: Dh200
- Carrying a passenger in Dubai: Dh300
- Riding on roads with speed limits above 60 km/h in Dubai: Dh300
- Parking in non-designated areas in Dubai: Dh200
- Not wearing a helmet in Dubai: Dh100–Dh200
- Riding in non-designated or prohibited areas in Dubai: Dh200
- Reckless riding or endangering others in Dubai: Dh300
- Unregistered vehicles in Abu Dhabi – Dh500
- covering or obscuring their vehicle number plates – Dh400
Dubai Police also warned that repeat violations can lead to immediate confiscation of the e-scooter. Similarly, Abu Dhabi police also introduced heavy fines for riding these vehicles without a license, helmet, or lights.
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Safety Concerns Behind Strict Fines
According to Dubai Police, 656 scooters were seized in 2024 due to traffic violations. Moreover, 13 deaths, nine from jaywalking and four linked to improper e-scooter use, were reported due to unsafe road behaviour.
Local authorities also noted that riders violating rules might also lose insurance protection. However, motorists involved in such accidents are not held liable if the rider was at fault, even if injuries or fatalities result.
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Approved E-Scooter Riding Zones in the UAE
The following are the areas where e-scooters are allowed in the UAE:
Dubai
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers
- Dubai Internet City
- City Walk
- The Palm Jumeirah
- Al Rigga
- 2nd of December Street
- Al Qusais, Al Karama, Al Mankhool
- Al Tawar 1 & 2
- Umm Suqeim 3
- Al Barsha South 2 & 3
- Al Safa 2, Al Garhoud, Muhaisnah 3
- Kite Beach
- Dubai Marina
- Dubai Canal
- Umm Suqeim Beach
Abu Dhabi:
- Al Reem Island & Al Maryah Island
- Masdar City
- Designated Cycling Tracks
Besides Dubai and Abu Dhabi, there are designated areas in other emirates of the UAE. Hence, you should first research it before driving your e-vehicle to avoid an E-Scooter Fine in UAE.
Common Questions Answered
1. Can I ride without a permit if I have a UAE driving licence?
Yes. According to RTA rules, riders with a valid UAE driving licence do not need a separate e-scooter permit.
2. Is there any grace period for fines?
No. Dubai Police have confirmed that violations are fined immediately, especially in high-risk zones.
3. Who needs to apply again for a permit?
Riders without a UAE driving licence must apply or renew via the RTA platform if their permit expires.
Final words
Remember, you can easily ride your e-scooter freely in the UAE, as they are not banned. However, riding without following the law can be costly and dangerous. Moreover, compliance is no longer optional because Escooter Fine in UAE start at Dh100. However, these rules exist to save lives, instead of imposing penalties on riders.
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