Dubai recorded 10 deaths and 259 injuries in 254 e-scooter and bicycle accidents during 2024. As a result, road safety experts are urging tougher regulations and enforcement measures.
They are also calling for a federal authority to oversee soft mobility and ensure consistent road safety rules across the UAE.
In February 2025, two fatal e-scooter accidents occurred within just three days. Both victims were minors, highlighting serious concerns.
On February 25, a 15-year-old Indian student died in an e-scooter crash near Al Nahda, close to Zulekha Hospital. The young badminton prodigy sustained fatal injuries during the incident.
Just two days later, a nine-year-old Arab boy died after a collision with a vehicle while riding an e-scooter. The accident occurred in Sharjah as the child attempted to cross the road.
By law, both children were too young to use e-scooters on public roads. In Dubai, riders must be 16 or older.
Additionally, they must complete an awareness course and get a permit from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Meanwhile, Sharjah allows riders aged 14 and above to use e-scooters on the streets.
Despite these regulations, enforcement remains inconsistent. Consequently, accidents continue to rise.
The Ministry of Interior recently revealed an alarming increase in road fatalities across the country. In 2024, 384 people died in road accidents—32 more than in 2023.
This figure also marks a 12% increase compared to 2022, when 343 fatalities were recorded. Clearly, road safety is becoming a major issue.
Experts stress the urgent need for better regulation, public awareness, and stronger enforcement. Without action, the death toll could rise further.
For now, safety advocates continue pushing for unified laws and a national oversight body. They believe these steps are essential to protect lives and promote responsible e-scooter use.
