RTA to open online applications for e-scooter permits in Dubai

Starting April 28, 2022, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has opened online applications on its website to obtain permits for the use of e-scooters in the designated cycling tracks and ‘safe streets’ within the emirate.

The RTA said that for those wishing to use the scooter in places other than the streets, such as bicycle paths or on sidewalks, the permit will not be mandatory.

Obtaining the e-scooter permits requires passing an awareness training course available on RTA’s website, according to Dubai Media Office. The applicant should be at least 16 years to apply for the course. The training course for these e-scooter permits includes lessons on the technical specifications and standards of scooters and users’ obligations, in addition to the areas allowed to use the scooter. The course also deals with the definition of the associated traffic signs and signs related scooters.

The new organising regulations stipulate that using an electric scooter or any other category determined by RTA without obtaining a driving permit is a traffic violation punishable by law with a fine of Dhs200 except for those who have a valid driver’s license for the vehicle or an international driver’s license or a motorcycle license.

.@rta_dubai launches online platform to allow the public obtain permits for electric scooters,which qualify them to use this type of flexible transportation in the areas & streets that it has specified.The service will be available starting from 28th Aprilhttps://t.co/szdD6alkZZ pic.twitter.com/3tj1sTSIE8

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 26, 2022

Earlier this month, on April13, the actual operation of e-scooters started began in 10 districts in Dubai and was restricted to the designated cycling lanes at Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Internet City, Al Rigga, 2nd of December Street, Palm Jumeirah, City Walk, in addition to safe roads at Al Qusais, Al Mankhool and Al Karama. It was also permitted at all cycling and scooter lanes across Dubai, except for the cycling tracks at Saih Assalam, Al Qudra and Meydan.

Read: Electric scooters permitted in 10 districts across Dubai, RTA and Dubai Police announce

It followed a decision taken in line with Resolution Number 13 for 2022, endorsed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, regulating the use of scooters in Dubai.

The selection of these areas and lanes was based on specific criteria such as the high population density, special development zones, areas served by metro stations and mass transit means, the availability of integrated infrastructure, and high-traffic safety areas.