Bicycles and e-scooters impounded in Dubai’s recent traffic campaign. DUBAI POLICE

Hundreds of bicycles and e-scooters have been impounded in Dubai after their riders were caught violating traffic rules, according to Dubai Police on Saturday (July 13). A total of 640 bicycles and scooters was impounded as part of a traffic campaign launched by the Dubai Police at the start of July. “Reckless behaviour put the riders and other individuals on the roads at significant risk of harm,” according to Dubai Police. The police force stressed that cyclists and e-scooter riders must only use designated areas, away from regular roads, streets, and vehicle lanes.
Major General Abdullah Ali Al Ghaithi, Assistant Commandant for Operations Affairs, said that the violations included reckless driving endangering others, using roads with speed limits over 60km/h and failing to wear the required safety vest and helmet. Al Ghaithi said that some of the violators were caught traveling against the flow of traffic, and not dismounting from their bicycle or e-scooter while using pedestrian crossings. Other bicycles and e-scooters were seized for not having the necessary technical specifications. The police official said that cyclists and e-scooter riders must wear a proper helmet, especially when biking near highways, as well as wear a reflective jacket, and install a abright white front and red rear light reflectors. Al Ghaithi said that fines ranging from Dh200 to Dh300 will also be imposed on violators. Riding an e-bike or bicycle on the road with a speed limit over 60 km/h will result in a Dh300 fine. Reckless driving results in a Dh300 fine. Transporting a passenger on an e-bike or bicycle that is not adequately equipped for that purpose results in an Dh200 fine. Lastly, riding an e-bike or bicycle against the flow of traffic carries an Dh200 fine. Al Ghaithi called on bicycle riders to strictly adhere to traffic guidelines, while also calling on the public to report violators by calling 901 or through the Dubai Police app. In Dubai, e-scooter riders will need to apply for a permit in order to legally use the vehicles on designated roads. ICA/Expat Media
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