Dubai Police Clamp Down on Reckless Riders by Impounding Over 13,650 E-Scooters

Dubai Police confiscated 13,657 e-scooters between January and August 2026 as part of a rigorous enforcement campaign against individuals violating traffic regulations.

Brig Juma bin Suwaidan, director of the general department of traffic at Dubai Police, emphasized that authorities maintain zero tolerance for dangerous riding habits, such as operating e-scooters at speeds exceeding 60kph on public roads. Current regulations restrict e-scooters to a maximum speed of 20kph on designated routes, and operators must be at least 16 years old.

Law enforcement patrols are actively targeting riders who break traffic laws by utilizing pavements and markets, executing dangerous road crossings, weaving between traffic lanes, or operating outside of authorized zones. According to Dubai Police, this initiative is essential for preventing severe injuries and fatalities.

Users are also required to fulfill basic safety guidelines, which include wearing a helmet and a reflective vest, as well as obeying signals, signs, and police instructions. E-scooters must feature a white front light, a front reflector, a red rear light, a rear reflector, and fully functional brakes. "Compliance with the law is not an option, but a fundamental responsibility for protecting lives and road safety," stated Brig Juma bin Suwaidan.

This ongoing enforcement follows an announcement made in July, during which Dubai Police detailed strategies for stricter legislation aimed at holding parents accountable for their children's e-scooter usage. Officials highlighted a growing trend of illegal modifications allowing e-scooters to reach speeds up to 120kph. Consequently, Dubai Police are collaborating with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to enhance regulations amid mounting concerns over reckless behavior among young riders. Data from the Ministry of Interior indicated a 97 per cent surge in major e-scooter accidents in 2025 compared to the previous year, rising from 61 to 120 incidents.

In Dubai, operators must secure a permit issued by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to ride within approved zones, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Internet City, Al Rigga, City Walk, Palm Jumeirah, Karama, Mankhool, and Al Quoz 4. Meanwhile, the Integrated Transport Centre permits e-scooter operation in designated Abu Dhabi areas such as Reem Island, Yas Island, Al Maryah Island, Al Dana, portions of Al Bateen, the Corniche, and Marina.

Official Rules for Operating E-Scooters

• Operators must be at least 16 years old.
• Helmets are mandatory.
• Reflective clothing is strongly advised.
• Carrying passengers or items that may cause a loss of balance is prohibited.
• E-scooters must feature a horn alongside front and rear lights.
• The maximum permitted speed is 20kph.
• Using mobile phones or dual headsets while riding is strictly forbidden.
• Scooters must be parked exclusively in designated areas.
• Riders must maintain a safe distance from pedestrians.
• Operating an e-scooter in any manner that endangers others is prohibited.