Dubai e-scooter: how do I apply for a permit through RTA and do I need one?

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E-scooters are allowed on certain cycling tracks and in 10 districts in Dubai, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority announced on April 11.

The RTA also introduced a permit system for riders in a move designed to improve public safety that comes into force on April 28.

Anyone riding an electric scooter or any type of electric bike must hold a full driving licence, or a permit.

The permit is need to ride on roads in designated areas only. So, how can you get one? And where can you ride them?

The National explains.

Where will e-scooters be allowed?

• Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
• Jumeirah Lakes Towers
• Dubai Internet City
• Al Rigga
• 2nd of December Street
• The Palm Jumeirah
• City Walk

In addition, they can be used on safe roads and tracks in specific zones at:

• Al Qusais
• Al Mankhool
• Al Karama

They can also be used at tracks designated for bicycles and scooters throughout Dubai, excluding those at Saih Assalam, Al Qudra and Meydan.

“The selection of these districts was guided by specific criteria, such as high population density, special development areas, areas served by public transport and metro stations, the availability of integrated infrastructure, and areas with a high level of traffic safety,” said Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the board of executive directors of the RTA.

How do I get a permit and what does it cost?

If you have a full vehicle driving licence, international driving licence or a motorcycle licence, you do not need a permit to drive an e-scooter.

Anyone who does not have a driving licence can apply for a permit online at the RTA at the end of the month.

The process involves attending training courses and passing an online test. Permits are free.

I don’t own an e-scooter. Can I hire one?

Yes, 2,000 vehicles, operated by four companies, will be available for rent in areas identified as most likely to benefit from greater access to e-scooters, such as popular tourist spots and sites for public transport links.

The scooters will be operated by two international companies, Tier and Lime, and two local, Arnab and Skurtt.

Do I have to wear a helmet?

Yes, helmets are mandatory.

How old do you have to be to use them?

Riders must be at least 16.

If I don't get a permit, will I be fined?

Yes. Anyone caught riding an e-scooter without a driving licence or permit could face a Dh200 fine. Here is a full list of the fines:

• Failing to use to specific routes – Dh200
• Riding on roads with a speed limit above 60kph – Dh300
• Reckless riding that poses danger to others' lives – Dh300
• Riding or parking e-scooter on paths designated for walking or jogging – Dh200
• Using an e-scooter without a permit – Dh200
• Failing to wear protective gear – Dh200
• Failing to commit to speed limits specified by the authority – Dh100
• Taking passengers – Dh300
• Failing to adhere to safety requirements – Dh200
• Riding a scooter that does not meet technical requirements – Dh300
• Parking in undesignated areas or in a manner that may block traffic or pose risk – Dh200
• Ignoring instructions on road signs – Dh200
• If rider is below 12 and without the supervision of an adult aged 18 and above – Dh200
• Failing to dismount on pedestrian crossings – Dh200
• Failing to report an accident that caused injuries or damages – Dh300
• Using the left lane and unsafe lane changing – Dh200
• Riding against traffic – Dh200
• Obstructing traffic on the route – Dh300
• Dragging objects using the e-scooter – Dh300
• Training facility failing to get a permit from the authority to provide group training – Dh200 (for each trainee)
• Conducting individual training – Dh200

Is there anything else important to keep in mind?

There are special parking spaces for shared e-scooters, which are mainly near tourist attractions and public transport stations.

You must not ride e-scooters on tracks designated for walking or running. Always leave an adequate distance to bicycles and pedestrians.

Do not carry passengers. And do not exceed the speed limits fixed by RTA, which is between 15kph and 20kph, depending on the track.