In 2024, Dubai experienced a concerning rise in accidents related to bicycles and e-scooters, with 254 incidents recorded.

These accidents resulted in 10 fatalities and a total of 259 injuries, categorized as 17 severe, 133 moderate, and 109 minor injuries.

This data was disclosed during a recent awareness campaign organized by the Dubai Police and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

The campaign specifically targets seven key areas in Dubai, including Marina, Al Barsha, Al Rukn, Al Murqqabat, Al Satwa, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Street, and Al Karama.

Its primary goal is to educate users of bicycles and e-scooters about traffic regulations and safety measures.

Authorities are emphasizing the necessity of utilizing designated lanes and pathways and adhering to safety requirements such as wearing approved helmets, reflective vests, and ensuring that bicycles are fitted with functional brakes and appropriate lighting.

Dubai Police have increased traffic enforcement efforts to ensure compliance with safety laws and to address any reckless behavior that could jeopardize public safety.

Penalties have been established for various violations.

For instance, riding a bicycle outside designated areas or on roads with speed limits exceeding 60 km/h incurs a fine of Dh300.

Additionally, not meeting technical requirements as specified by the RTA can lead to a fine of Dh200.

Riding with a passenger on a bicycle without appropriate equipment or safety gear will also attract fines of Dh200, while carrying a passenger on an electric scooter has a penalty of Dh300.

Major General Saif Mehir Al Mazrouei, the Director of the General Traffic Department at Dubai Police, has reiterated the importance of adhering to traffic rules and wearing safety gear to protect cyclists, e-scooter users, and pedestrians.

He has encouraged the public to report dangerous behavior through the 'Police Eye' service via the Dubai Police app or by calling the 'We Are All Police' hotline.

Hussein Al Banna, executive director of the Traffic and Roads Foundation at the RTA, emphasized the organization's dedication to enhancing traffic education and awareness in collaboration with the Dubai Police.

The RTA continues to invest in infrastructure projects aimed at integrating transportation systems in support of the 'Dubai, A Bicycle-Friendly City' strategy.

This includes expanding bicycle lanes and shared pathways, as well as initiatives to support e-scooter users, all of which align with goals for sustainable mobility.

In 2024, the RTA conducted over 80 awareness events that reached an estimated 10,000 individuals across various locations, including high-density areas such as Jumeirah Beach and Dubai Water Canal.

These initiatives are part of the RTA's ongoing efforts to enhance safety standards and further sustainable transport solutions in light of the National Road Safety Campaign for Cyclists, initiated by the Ministry of Interior.

The RTA has implemented new measures including digital permits for e-scooter use, expanded safety standards, and improved infrastructure for individual mobility users.

Collectively, these efforts are aimed at promoting flexible mobility options while actively working to reduce carbon emissions in the emirate.