Feb,25 Dubai: Dubai Police revealed on Monday that at least 10 people have lost their lives, and 259 others were injured in 254 road accidents involving e-scooters and bicycles in 2024. Among the injured, 17 sustained serious injuries, 133 suffered moderate injuries, and 109 had minor injuries.
These alarming statistics have prompted Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) to launch joint safety campaigns aimed at curbing accidents and raising awareness among cyclists and e-scooter users across key areas in the city.
The targeted areas include high-traffic zones such as Dubai Marina, Al Barsha, Al Riqa, Al Muraqqabat, Al Satwa, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Street, and Al Karama. These locations have been identified as hotspots for accidents involving non-motorized and micro-mobility vehicles.
Calls for Mutual Respect and Safer Practices
Major General Saif Mehir Al Mazrouei, Director of the General Traffic Department at Dubai Police, emphasized the need for mutual respect among all road users, including drivers, cyclists, e-scooter riders, and pedestrians. He stressed that adherence to traffic laws and responsible behavior are critical to ensuring the safety of everyone on the roads.
“Reckless behavior, whether by drivers or riders, puts lives at risk,” Major General Al Mazrouei said. “We are committed to enforcing traffic laws and educating the public to prevent such incidents.”
The campaigns will focus on promoting safe practices among cyclists and e-scooter users, including the use of designated paths, wearing helmets that meet safety standards, and using reflective vests for better visibility. Riders are also reminded to ensure their vehicles are equipped with functional brakes, a white front light, and a red rear light.
Stricter Enforcement and Fines for Violations
To deter unsafe practices, Dubai Police and the RTA have outlined a series of fines for violations. Riding outside designated lanes or on roads with speed limits exceeding 60 km/h will incur a fine of Dh300. Dangerous riding and parking on pedestrian or jogging paths will result in fines ranging from Dh200 to Dh300. Additionally, riding without a valid driving permit or with an expired one will cost Dh200.
These measures are part of a broader effort to instill discipline among riders and ensure compliance with traffic regulations. Major General Al Mazrouei reiterated that the goal is not to penalize but to create a culture of safety and responsibility.
Infrastructure Improvements and Awareness Campaigns
Hussein Al Banna, Executive Director of the Traffic and Roads Agency at the RTA, highlighted the authority’s ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and promote safer mobility options. The RTA has been investing in expanding cycling lanes and shared paths, aligning with Dubai’s vision of becoming a bike-friendly city.
“Our infrastructure projects are designed to accommodate the growing demand for flexible and sustainable transport options,” Al Banna said. “However, infrastructure alone is not enough. We must also focus on raising awareness and educating the public.”
In 2024, the RTA organized over 80 awareness events, reaching approximately 10,000 people in high-density areas such as Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Water Canal, and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. These initiatives are part of the RTA’s commitment to supporting national safety campaigns, including the Ministry of Interior’s 2025 initiative.
Digital Permits and Enhanced Safety Standards
The RTA is also working on introducing digital permits for e-scooter use, streamlining the registration process, and ensuring that riders meet safety requirements. Additionally, the authority is developing enhanced safety standards for micro-mobility vehicles to reduce accidents and improve overall road safety.
Al Banna emphasized that combining infrastructure improvements with awareness campaigns is key to creating a safer and more sustainable transport system. “Our goal is to make Dubai a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility while ensuring the safety of all road users,” he said.
A Broader Vision for Sustainable Mobility
The safety campaigns and infrastructure upgrades align with Dubai’s broader vision of becoming a smart and sustainable city. By promoting the use of e-scooters and bicycles, the RTA aims to reduce carbon emissions and traffic congestion while providing residents with flexible and eco-friendly transport options.
However, the recent spike in accidents underscores the challenges of integrating micro-mobility solutions into a bustling urban environment. Authorities are urging all road users to exercise caution, follow traffic rules, and prioritize safety to prevent further tragedies.
The tragic loss of lives and the high number of injuries in e-scooters and bicycle accidents have served as a wake-up call for Dubai. The joint efforts of Dubai Police and the RTA reflect a proactive approach to addressing the issue through stricter enforcement, public awareness, and infrastructure improvements. As the city continues to embrace sustainable mobility, fostering a culture of responsibility and mutual respect among all road users will be essential to ensuring a safer future for everyone.
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