Executive Summary
Dubai has introduced active enforcement measures targeting e-scooters, e-bikes, and other micromobility devices. While these devices have long operated under the existing regulatory framework, they have historically been subject to limited oversight. This approach is no longer sustainable
In 2024 alone, Dubai recorded 32.3 million e-scooter trips, over 40,000 violations, and 254 accidents, resulting in 10 fatalities and 259 injuries. These figures prompted the establishment of the Dubai Police Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit, effective 1 May 2026. The unit marks a clear shift from rules that exist on paper to rules that are actively enforced across the emirate.
This is not a new law. It is a significant change in how strictly the existing framework will be applied and how costly non-compliance will become for both adults and minors.
Why this is happening now
The enforcement drive has been triggered by persistent behavioural issues, including:
- Routine use of pedestrian sidewalks
- Low helmet compliance
- Increasing numbers of underage riders
- Multiple riders per device
- Unsafe speeds in mixed-use areas
- Riding against traffic flow
Although e-scooters offer convenient last-mile transport, their growing use has created direct conflicts with pedestrians and vehicles, leading to more accidents, injuries, and public complaints. The issue is not the absence of regulation, but rather the lack of consistent compliance with the rules already in place.
What has actually changed in 2026
No New Law has been introduced
The governing regulation remains Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022. The core requirements continue to apply
- Minimum rider age: 16 years
- Helmet use: mandatory
- Permit required in designated zones (for riders without a driving licence)
- Use restricted to designated tracks and approved areas only
- One rider per device
Fines range from AED 100 to AED 300, with the possibility of device confiscation.
Permitted and Restricted Zones
Use is permitted in designated areas such as Dubai Marina (excluding Marina Walk), Business Bay, JLT, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Internet City, Palm Jumeirah, JBR, Al Karama, d3, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Jumeirah 1–3, and dedicated cycling tracks.
Use is prohibited on highways, pedestrian-only sidewalks, heavily congested pedestrian zones, certain high-speed cycling tracks, and inside Metro and Tram stations (unless the device is folded and carried).
Enforcement has Fundamentally Changed
| Aspect | Before 2026 | From 1 May 2026 |
| Monitoring | Occasional checks | Continuous and targeted |
| Police visibility | Low | High-visibility presence |
| Rule compliance | Frequently ignored | Actively enforced |
| Device confiscation | Rare | Applied in practice |
| Likelihood of intervention | Low | Significantly higher |
Riders are now far more likely to be stopped, fined, and recorded in enforcement systems.
What this means in Practice
- For Riders
Non-compliance may result in immediate fines, device confiscation, and increased exposure in civil liability claims following an accident. - For Drivers
While drivers retain a duty of care, unlawful conduct by a rider may lead to reduced or shared liability in the event of an incident. - For Businesses
Delivery operators, hospitality providers, and real estate companies face potential vicarious liability where staff operate devices in breach of regulations. This includes regulatory scrutiny and claims from injured third parties.
The Most Significant Change: Post-Accident Liability
The real impact lies not in the fine itself, but in how breaches will now be treated in civil claims. Previously, violations existed but were inconsistently enforced. Going forward, breaches will be observed, recorded, and relied upon by Dubai Police, the RTA, insurers, and the courts.
This affects fault determination and compensation outcomes. Non-compliant riders may receive reduced compensation or face stronger opposing claims.
Minors and Parental Liability
E-scooters are restricted to riders aged 16 and above. Any use by a minor is unlawful. Courts will examine whether the rider was legally permitted to use the device and whether there was adequate parental supervision. Where a minor causes injury, parental liability is likely to be engaged. Where a minor is injured, compensation may be reduced due to the unlawful use of the device. Adults who purchase or allow minors to use e-scooters may also face liability for negligent supervision.
E-Bikes: An Overlooked Risk
Although current enforcement focuses primarily on e-scooters, e-bikes fall under the same regulatory framework. Due to their higher speed and greater mass, they can cause more severe injuries and higher-value claims — particularly in delivery operations and high-density areas.
Enforcement Focus Areas
Targeted enforcement will concentrate on high-risk zones including Dubai Marina, Business Bay, Jumeirah Beach Track, Al Karama, and Al Muraqqabat. Additional focus areas include device modifications, helmet compliance, and tandem riding violations.
Recommended Actions
• Individuals: Treat e-scooters as regulated transport and strictly follow safety and routing rules.
• Parents: Do not permit underage use and actively supervise device access.
• Businesses: Implement clear internal policies and control employee use of micromobility devices.
Conclusion
Dubai has made its position clear: e-scooters and micromobility devices are now treated as regulated transport, with active enforcement replacing previous tolerance for non-compliance. Breaches will not only attract fines but may also influence fault determination and liability in civil claims. The implications extend beyond the rider to parents, employers, and asset owners.
This is no longer a matter of convenience — it is a matter of legal responsibility.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information reflects the position as of June 2026. For advice specific to your circumstances, please contact our team.