To enhance the safety of both residents and visitors, all e-scooters and e-bikes have been banned in the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) community. This move, confirmed by Dubai Community Management, aims to prevent accidents and ensure a safer environment in this bustling area.
Ban Enforced in Key Areas of The Walk 🚶♂️❌
The restriction applies specifically to the ground and plaza levels of The Walk, a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Notices in Arabic and English have been prominently placed throughout the area, clearly indicating the prohibition with crossed-out icons of e-bikes and e-scooters.
A statement from Dubai Community Management highlighted the need for this measure: “The vibrant tourist hotspot and family-friendly community JBR has restricted the use of e-scooters on the ground and plaza levels of The Walk. This measure aims to ensure the safety of residents and visitors, prevent accidents and maintain the pedestrian-friendly appeal of the area.”
Residents and Visitors Welcome the Ban 🙌
The ban has been well-received by many who frequent the JBR area. Simone Majocchi, an Italian expatriate who often walks the loop between Marina Walk and JBR, expressed his relief: “I’m glad Dubai Community Management has banned anything on wheels from the walkway. With this new ban, I can regain my peace of mind while walking.”
Others have long called for stricter rules to curb reckless riding of e-scooters. Mohammed Abunael, a Jordanian expat, shared his concerns: “It’s a nightmare for me because I’m always worried about getting hit by an e-scooter rider. Their riding patterns are unpredictable, and some riders are extremely reckless.”
Existing Regulations and New Measures 🚔
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has already enforced a ban on e-scooters inside the Metro since March 1, 2023, due to concerns over fire hazards. This ban applies to all battery-operated micro-mobility devices, with only non-electric scooters and foldable bicycles without batteries being permitted on the Metro and Tram.
Additionally, the RTA and Dubai Police have tested AI-powered robots to detect violations by e-scooter and bicycle users. These robots monitor compliance with safety protocols, such as wearing helmets and proper parking, with violations being punishable by fines of up to Dh300.
The Future of E-Scooter Regulations in Dubai 🔍
There have been suggestions to require e-scooters to have license plates or unique IDs to help raise awareness that they are not toys but legitimate vehicles on the road. Although e-scooters currently do not require registration, riders must obtain a permit from the RTA.
Since the requirement was introduced in April 2022, over 63,500 e-scooter permits have been issued, according to RTA statistics. Only those aged 16 and above are allowed to ride e-scooters, with training and awareness courses available on the RTA website. However, individuals with a valid driving license are exempt from these courses.
