UAE e-scooter rules: Permit mandatory for users aged 15 and above from January 2027

Abu Dhabi: Users of e-scooters, electric bicycles and small bicycles in the UAE will be required to obtain permits under new executive regulations for the Traffic Law that take effect on January 1, 2027. Applicants must be at least 15-years old, with permits valid for three years and renewable. The regulations introduce three types of permits covering electric scooters, electric bicycles and small bicycles, as part of measures governing the use of personal means of transport on roads across the country. They also establish registration, technical and safety requirements and specify where personal transport devices can be used. Registration and permits Personal means of transport must be registered in accordance with procedures set by the relevant licensing authority or traffic control authority. Users will not be permitted to operate them without the required permit. The licensing authority will issue permits for personal means of transport, with applicants required to be at least 15-years old. Six categories of personal transport The regulations classify personal means of transport into six categories according to their specifications. These include conventional bicycles powered by the rider and not equipped with an automatic or hybrid motor, as well as electric bicycles fitted with a power unit that assists pedalling. Electric scooters powered by an electric motor and designed to be ridden while standing or sitting are also covered. Another category covers small bicycles fitted with an automatic or electric motor, with an engine capacity not exceeding 50cc and a maximum speed of 45 kilometres per hour. The regulations also cover skateboards designed for personal transport, whether powered by the user's movement or a motor, and mobility devices for elderly people and people with disabilities, including seats powered by a motor or propelled by the user. Safety requirements Personal means of transport must meet a series of technical and safety requirements before they can be used on designated routes. They must have a front light to illuminate the road at night and a rear red light connected to the brakes. An audible warning device must be fitted to the handlebars, while brakes must be installed on at least the rear wheel. Tyres must be securely fitted and roadworthy, and wheel cables must be complete and properly tightened. All components must also be durable and securely fitted to ensure safe use. Users must comply with any additional requirements introduced by the relevant licensing authority. Six obligations for users The regulations set six obligations aimed at protecting users, pedestrians and other road users. Personal means of transport must be registered with the relevant authority and cannot be used without the required permit. Users must not ride them on roads designated for motor vehicles. They must follow traffic rules and relevant guidance and operate their devices in a manner that does not endanger themselves, pedestrians or motorists. They must also use routes specified by the licensing or traffic control authority and comply with the designated speed limits. The prescribed safety requirements apply to privately owned devices as well as those provided for rent by commercial establishments. Traffic light rules The regulations also specify how traffic signals apply to pedestrians and users of personal means of transport. A red light prohibits them from crossing the road, while a green light allows them to cross. A flashing green light means users and pedestrians must not begin crossing. Those who have already started crossing during the permitted period may continue until they reach the other side. Four essential safety requirements Personal means of transport must have: A front light for nighttime use and a rear red light connected to the brakes. An audible warning device mounted on the handlebars. Brakes fitted to at least the rear wheel. Tyres that are securely fitted and roadworthy.