Dubai e-scooter rules 2026: Permits, speed limits, fines and approved routes explained
Check permit requirements before setting off across the city
DUBAI – Electric scooters have become an increasingly visible part of Dubai’s personal mobility network, but riders must follow specific rules covering permits, speed, equipment and where they can travel.
Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) are intensifying enforcement during 2026, with thousands of scooters already confiscated for traffic and safety violations.
Dubai Police confiscated 13,657 electric scooters during the first eight months of 2026, targeting violations including riding on pavements, high-speed roads, commercial areas, narrow alleys and locations outside approved routes. The rules also cover parking, passenger restrictions and the equipment riders must have before heading out.
Permit requirements
RTA requires electric scooter riders to be at least 16 years old. Citizens, residents and visitors can apply for an electric scooter permit where required.
However, riders who hold a UAE driving licence or a valid international driving licence do not need a separate electric scooter permit. RTA also recognises licences issued by countries covered by applicable Cabinet and Ministry of Interior regulations.
The electric scooter permit is free of charge and can be obtained through the RTA website, RTA app or Dubai Now. Applicants without an eligible driving licence must complete the required online theory material and pass an electronic test.
For applications through Dubai Now, the test contains 20 questions and must be completed within 30 minutes. Successful applicants receive a downloadable electronic permit. RTA states that the permit has no validity period, allowing riders to retain the electronic version through the authority’s digital channels.
Rental operators also require users to show an eligible driving licence or electric scooter permit before using their services.
Where you can ride
Electric scooters are not permitted everywhere in Dubai. RTA restricts their use to designated or shared tracks and approved personal mobility areas.
Approved locations include Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai Internet City, Al Rigga and City Walk. Designated routes are also available in areas such as Palm Jumeirah, Al Qusais, Al Mankhool and Al Karama.
The approved network also covers Al Tawar, Umm Suqeim 3, Al Garhoud, Muhaisnah 3 and Umm Hurair 1, along with routes through Al Safa 2, Al Barsha South 2, Al Barsha 3, Al Quoz 4 and Nad Al Sheba 1.
Route access can vary from one street or mobility corridor to another, so riders must follow signs and local instructions. Dubai Police prohibits riding on pavements and in locations outside authorised routes.
Riders are also prohibited from entering roads where the posted vehicle speed limit is above 60km per hour.
Speed and safety
The maximum permitted electric scooter speed is 20km per hour, although riders must observe any lower speed limit displayed on an individual track or shared route.
A protective helmet and suitable riding equipment are required, while Dubai Police enforcement guidance also calls for reflective clothing.
Scooters must have functioning front and rear lights, roadworthy tyres, effective brakes and a horn attached to the steering arm.
اتبع إرشادات القيادة الآمنة للسكوتر الكهربائي، حفاظاً على سلامتك وسلامة الآخرين.#تنقل_بأمان#السلامة_المرورية pic.twitter.com/tZm2OpMZDV
— Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) September 20, 2026
Passengers are not allowed on electric scooters. Riders must also avoid carrying loads that could affect stability and cannot use dual headsets while travelling.
Maintaining a safe distance from pedestrians, cyclists and other scooter users is required. At pedestrian crossings, riders must dismount and walk the scooter across, following traffic instructions before continuing.
Fines to know
Dubai's electric scooter regulations include fines ranging from Dh100 to Dh300, depending on the violation.
| Violation | Fine |
| Exceeding the prescribed speed limit | Dh100 |
| Riding without the required permit | Dh200 |
| Improper parking or obstructing pedestrian/vehicle movement | Dh200 |
| Carrying a passenger | Dh300 |
| Riding on a road with a speed limit above 60km per hour | Dh300 |
| Dangerous riding | Dh300 |
Parking rules are also important. Scooters must be left in designated locations and cannot block pedestrians, vehicles or access routes.
RTA confirms that Dubai Police issues electric scooter fines and handles enquiries and disputes relating to their payment.
Enforcement across Dubai
The Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit, launched by RTA and Dubai Police on May 1, 2026, operates across cycling tracks, main roads and designated soft mobility zones.
Enforcement teams can issue violations and impound personal mobility devices that do not comply with the applicable regulations. The increased checks place particular attention on approved routes, rider behaviour, speed and the condition of scooters.
Taking scooters on Metro and Tram
Electric scooters that meet RTA's transport requirements can also be carried on Dubai Metro and Tram services.
To qualify, a scooter must be foldable, have no seat and weigh no more than 20kg. Its maximum permitted dimensions are 120cm long, 70cm high and 40cm wide.
Riders must fold the scooter while inside stations and trains. It must remain within the permitted luggage dimensions and cannot obstruct passengers or circulation areas.
For anyone using an e-scooter as part of a daily journey, the key requirements therefore extend beyond the ride itself, covering where the device is used, how it is operated, where it is parked and how it is transported on Dubai's public transport network.