Dubai driving licence soon for e-scooter riders, cyclists

  DUBAI – Dubai residents expressed mixed reactions following news that driving licences will soon be required to use e-scooters, bicycles and other form of bikes in the emirate. This came after Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, recently issued a resolution regulating the use of bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters in Dubai. In commentaries on an Expatmedia.net post, netizens shared mixed reactions to the news. Many agreed with the regulation, while some expressed concern regarding its implementation. “That’s a good way of regulating them. They have become so many nowadays,” said Dubai resident Smithkline Beechams. The comment was echoed by several residents, including Munglenawng Philip Maran, who said it is a “good move to control safe travel the crowd”. Bryan Paul Llagas lamented the reckless behaviour of some e-scooter and bicycle riders who drive “full throttle” on pedestrian lanes. Jade Chan De los Trinos shared the same sentiment. Amit Malkani said he is considering selling his e-scooter following the announcement, while Maimona Gampong said she has now shelved plans to buy an e-scooter. “Why you need to register just to become healthy?” Egbert Escamillas asked. Laurente Darwin pointed out that private pathways for bicycles and e-scooters must be in place “all over Dubai” for licence holders to use. Currently, e-scooters can be used legally in five areas in Dubai: Al Rigga, 2nd of December Street, Dubai Internet City, Jumeirah Lakes Towers and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. E-scooter rental stations have been set up in these areas and dedicated lanes for e-scooters and bicycles have also been introduced in these areas to guide riders. E-scooter owners will be permitted to use the vehicles in these designated zones, but run the risk of being stopped by police in other areas. The use of e-scooters is not allowed in Dubai’s public parks and on the jogging track and boardwalk at Dubai’s Kite Beach “to avoid accidents”, according to Dubai Municipality. Violators run the risk of getting fined Dh300. Dubai has been working on transform itself into a bicycle-friendly city and promote environmentally friendly modes of transport. The Dubai government announced plans to expand the city’s dedicated cycling lanes to cover more than 660km by 2025.

Here are answers to residents’ frequently asked questions:

Who will issue e-scooter or bicycle driving licence in Dubai?

Under the resolution, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will issue licenses for e-scooters or any other form of bikes in accordance with the decisions issued by RTA’s Director-General.

What is the process of applying for an e-scooter or bicycle driving licence in Dubai?

Speaking to Expatmedia.net, an RTA representative said as of this publication  there is yet no further announcement on the procedure for application and issuance of driving licences for e-scooters and bicycles, or related fees.

Is it legal to drive e-scooter or bicycle in Dubai while driving licences are not yet issued?

An RTA representative told Expatmedia.net that pending the announcement on the application and issuance of driving licences, e-scooter riders and bicycle riders may use the vehicles in designated areas, provided that they follow traffic and safety rules and regulations set by Dubai Police. ALSO READ: New rules for bicycles, e-scooters in Abu Dhabi
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