10 killed and 259 injured in accidents involving e-scooters and bicycles in Dubai

Dubai: At least 10 people were killed and 259 injured in a 254 road accidents involving e-scooter and bicycles in 2024, Dubai Police revealed on Monday.

Among the injured, 17 sustained serious injuries, 133 suffered moderate injuries, and 109 had minor injuries. These alarming figures have prompted the Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to launch joint campaigns aimed at improving safety and raising awareness among cyclists and e-scooter users in key areas across the city.

The targeted areas include Dubai Marina, Al Barsha, Al Riqa, Al Muraqqabat, Al Satwa, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Street, and Al Karama.

Major General Saif Mehir Al Mazrouei, Director of the General Traffic Department at Dubai Police, urged the need for mutual respect among all road users — drivers, passengers, and pedestrians — to ensure the safety of everyone on the streets.

Reckless driving

As part of the initiative, Major General Al Mazrouei highlighted the importance of enforcing traffic laws to prevent reckless behaviour that puts lives at risk. The campaigns will focus on educating cyclists and e-scooter riders on safe practices, including adhering to designated paths, wearing helmets that meet safety standards, and using reflective vests. Riders are also reminded that their vehicles must have functional brakes, a white front light, and a red rear light for better visibility.

Violations and fines

Riding outside designated lanes or on roads with speed limits exceeding 60km/h will incur a Dh300 fine.

Dangerous riding and parking on pedestrian or jogging paths will also result in fines ranging from Dh200 to Dh300.

Riding without a valid driving permit or with an expired one will cost Dh200.

Hussein Al Banna, Executive Director of the Traffic and Roads Agency at the RTA, emphasised the RTA’s continued investment in infrastructure, including expanding cycling lanes and shared paths, as part of its goal to make Dubai a more bike-friendly city.

Al Banna also mentioned the RTA’s role in supporting national safety campaigns, such as the 2025 initiative launched by the Ministry of Interior, and highlighted the RTA’s organisation of over 80 awareness events in 2024, reaching approximately 10,000 people in high-density areas like Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Water Canal, and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard.

Infrastructure

The RTA is working on improving infrastructure and regulations, including the introduction of digital permits for e-scooter use and the development of enhanced safety standards. These measures align with Dubai’s broader vision of becoming a smart and sustainable city that promotes flexible mobility while reducing carbon emissions.

Al Banna stressed that combining infrastructure improvements with awareness initiatives is key to creating a safer and more sustainable transport system in Dubai, furthering the RTA’s commitment to global safety standards.