Seizures of these vehicles continue daily, hundreds of bicycles and trolleys are confiscated each day. In September, Dubai Police reported the confiscation of nearly 3,800 bicycles and e-scooters in Naif. These seizures occurred due to various violations.
These included operating in non-designated areas such as roads and pedestrian lanes. A senior Dubai Police officer warned that the improper use of these vehicles poses a “significant danger.” It also “confuses” other road users. During the first half of 2024, four fatalities and 25 injuries occurred. These incidents involved e-scooters and bicycles across Dubai.
Naif is a bustling commercial hub known for its hardware, electronics, and building material shops. This area depends heavily on bicycles for daily operations. With its crowded streets, car use becomes impractical for short trips. Therefore, bicycles remain essential for tasks like delivering invoices, collecting goods, and making bank runs.
The ongoing crackdown has left business owners confused and concerned. “If there is a ban, authorities should officially announce it,” said Saifuddin Khomosi, a hardware store owner.
Murtaza, another shop owner, described the panic caused by Emirates Auction teams. “Shop staff abandon their tasks to hide their bicycles. This brings business to a standstill,” he said. Traders also reported that bicycles padlocked inside buildings were being seized. Hatim Al Anwar has operated a hardware shop on Nakheel Road for 22 years. He emphasized the importance of bicycles. “We have no choice but to buy new ones. We cannot operate without them. Bicycles are the lifeline of our business,” he stated.
While business owners do not oppose regulations, they seek clear and consistent guidelines to ensure compliance.
Authorities have previously outlined specific rules for e-scooter and bicycle riders. These rules include using designated lanes approved by the licensing authority. Riders must avoid jogging or walking lanes. They cannot carry passengers or unbalancing loads. They must also dismount at pedestrian crossings and wear safety gear. Violators face fines of up to Dh300. Offenses include using these vehicles on public roads and reckless riding.
Emirates Auction handles vehicle confiscations. The company declined to disclose the daily number of seized bicycles, citing confidentiality. However, it confirmed that all seizures are conducted under the directives of the relevant UAE authorities.
