Study reveals widespread reckless riding, helmet violations, and underage use among e-scooter users.
Dubai: The rapid expansion of e-scooter use across the UAE has been accompanied by a sharp rise in serious accidents, with new data showing that major crashes nearly doubled in 2025, raising growing concerns over rider behaviour, safety awareness, and infrastructure readiness.
An analysis of UAE Ministry of Interior (MOI) traffic data by RoadSafetyUAE found that major e-scooter accidents increased by 97% in 2025 compared with 2024. The wider micro-mobility category, including e-scooters, motorcycles, bicycles, and electric bikes, recorded a 45% rise in serious accidents, significantly higher than the 23% increase seen across all vehicle types.
The findings come alongside a nationwide perception survey commissioned by Al Wathba Insurance and RoadSafetyUAE, which polled 1,010 UAE residents and highlighted widespread concern over unsafe e-scooter usage.
Reckless riding concerns
The survey revealed that 93% of respondents regularly witness reckless or unsafe e-scooter behaviour, while 90% said they feel personally unsafe due to rider conduct. Helmet non-compliance emerged as a major issue, with 90% reporting they frequently see riders without helmets.
The study also identified several other common safety violations. Nearly 89% of respondents said they frequently see e-scooter riders using prohibited areas, such as sidewalks or riding against traffic flow on roads. Another 88% reported observing riders who appear to be below the legal minimum age of 16, while 81% said riders often operate without lights at night, further increasing the risk of accidents.
Important mode of transport
Despite these concerns, e-scooters continue to serve as a key mode of transport for many residents. Six in ten respondents said they play an important role in meeting daily transportation needs within their communities, highlighting the growing importance of micro-mobility in urban mobility.
Thomas Edelmann, Founder and Managing Director of RoadSafetyUAE, said the combination of rising accident numbers and widespread reports of unsafe behaviour highlights an urgent need for action.
“The 2025 accident statistics paint a picture that calls for immediate attention. While e-scooters provide valuable mobility options, the data clearly shows that rider behaviour and compliance with regulations remain major challenges,” he said.
Safety measures
The study also suggests that existing safety measures may not be enough. Although 70% of respondents said they see traffic officers enforcing e-scooter rules, many believe further steps are required to improve safety.
One of the strongest recommendations is the expansion of dedicated infrastructure. Nearly 88% of respondents supported building more designated lanes, crossings, and safe riding zones to separate e-scooters from pedestrians and other road users.
Al Wathba Insurance Chief Financial Officer Muralikrishnan Raman said the findings highlight the need to balance the benefits of micro-mobility with public safety concerns.
“There is a clear demand for e-scooters as a transport solution, but the high levels of perceived reckless riding cannot be ignored. Research like this helps identify where interventions are needed to better protect riders and the wider community,” he said.
Awareness
RoadSafetyUAE said the findings point to the need for a broader, multi-stakeholder approach involving authorities, schools, parents, residential communities, and employers. The organisation called for stronger rider education, increased awareness of regulations, improved helmet use, and more responsible riding behaviour.
Experts believe that combining stricter enforcement with public awareness campaigns and improved infrastructure could help reverse the sharp rise in serious accidents while ensuring e-scooters remain a safe and sustainable transport option in the UAE.
Where e-scooters are prohibited
To avoid fines and ensure pedestrian safety, e-scooters must not be ridden in the following areas:
- Major highways: Strictly prohibited
- High-speed roads: Any road with a speed limit above 60 km/h
- Pedestrian-only areas: Non-designated pavements, sidewalks, or running/jogging tracks
- Public transport hubs: Riding is not allowed inside Metro stations or on platforms
Essential rules and safety regulations
- Speed limit: The maximum permitted speed for e-scooters in Dubai is 20 km/h, and riders must follow all posted limits
- Age requirement: Riders must be at least 16 years old
- Safety gear: Wearing a helmet and reflective jacket is mandatory
These rules are intended to improve rider safety and reduce accidents while supporting responsible use of e-scooters in the city.
- No passengers: E-scooters are designed for single riders only, and carrying passengers is not allowed.
- Balance: Avoid carrying heavy items that could affect stability or control of the scooter.
- Pedestrian crossings: Riders must dismount and walk the e-scooter when crossing at designated pedestrian crossings.
- Safe distancing: Maintain a safe distance from pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users at all times.
Do you need an e-scooter permit?
Yes, an e-scooter permit is mandatory for anyone riding an electric scooter in Dubai.
- How to apply: The permit can be obtained free of charge through the Dubai Now app or via the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website (RTA Official Website).
- Exemptions: You do not need a separate permit if you already hold a valid UAE driving licence or an international driving licence.
Common e-scooter violations and fines
Under Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022, authorities can issue fines for non-compliance with e-scooter rules. Common violations include:
- Riding without a permit
- Not wearing mandatory safety gear
- Riding in prohibited areas
- Exceeding speed limits
- Carrying passengers or unsafe loads
- Ignoring traffic signals and road rules
These penalties are enforced to improve rider safety and ensure responsible use of e-scooters across the city.
- Riding without a valid RTA permit: Dh200
- Carrying a passenger on an e-scooter: Dh300
- Riding on roads with speed limits of 60 km/h and above: Dh300
- Riding in non-designated lanes: Dh200
- Parking in a way that obstructs traffic or pedestrians: Dh200
