Abu Dhabi issues new rules for use of bicycles, micro-mobility devices in the emirate

New regulations have been issued in Abu Dhabi for the use of bicycles, electric bikes and other micro-mobility devices in the emirate.

The new rules which govern the use of as well as the supply or rental of bicycles to individuals and companies, have been issued by The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) in Abu Dhabi, in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Police GHQ.

Accordingly, only one rider can ride a bicycle, scooter or electric bike, while ensuring to use the lanes dedicated to bicycles.

Cyclists and users of micro-mobility devices can only use the lanes and roads intended for bicycles, and in case there are none in the area they wish to cycle, they must use side-roads where the speed limit is typically 20kph, according to news agency WAM.

They must stay on the far right-hand side of the road or sidewalks and pavements dedicated to the use of bicycles. Any stunts that are dangerous or compromising to riders, pedestrians or any other road user must be avoided.

Riders must wear a protective helmet, as well as reflective clothing at night, and they can only park their bikes in designated areas and not leave them anywhere where they could impede the movement of vehicles or pedestrians. Also, these mobility devices must not be chained to traffic light posts or street lighting poles.

The Department of Municipalities and Transport, in cooperation with Abu Dhabi Police, has issued regulations regarding the use of bicycles, electric bikes, and scooters. The regulations apply to businesses and individuals in the emirate. pic.twitter.com/otjUupIFpu

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The traffic regulations dictate that bicycle riders must give priority to pedestrians and decrease their speed at intersections and crossroads, while keeping a safe distance between themselves, vehicles and pedestrians.

It is completely prohibited for bicycle riders to hold on to any other vehicle, or even enter in the air space of any high or low speed vehicle while on the move. It is also prohibited to travel in the opposite direction of the road under any circumstances.

The ITC also stated that it would begin issuing business permits to companies wishing to supply services in this field. The ITC said that any individual or company is prohibited from engaging in the rental of electric bicycles until they have acquired an official permit issued by the ITC. Electric bikes can only be rented to individuals aged 18 years and over.

In addition, the authorised operator is responsible for not operating any bicycle or mobility device that does not conform with the approved technical specifications, and is obligated to ensure regular periodic maintenance of bicycles and/or devices according to the regulations and specifications of the DMT and the ITC.

All bicycle and micro-mobility device renting or operating facilities are obliged to ensure that a phone number is made available to all riders through which they can be contacted in the event of any emergency or malfunction during the use of the course of their rental.

The operators must provide a notice clearly stating the requirements and safety instructions for riding bicycles and electric bicycles through the establishment’s apps and also attach a sticker with that information to the body of the bicycle, advising users that bicycles are not to be stopped on pedestrian or road lanes, at entrances and exits to houses or buildings.

All electric bicycles must be fitted with an electronic GPS. The regulations stipulate that bicycles and electric bicycles should be equipped with a white headlight and a red taillight that can be turned on while riding at night, or a red light reflector, as well as a handlebar-mounted sound alert device and efficient brakes, at least on the rear wheel.

The new regulations also allow for the imposition of fines on any establishments and operators of bicycle and electric rental services, and their users, that violate these rules. The ITC will apply the fines in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Police. An awareness campaign will also be launched before the penalties and fines listed in the regulations are imposed on violators.

The ITC is also reportedly in the process of issuing manuals of procedures, requirements and regulations for bicycle riding and the use of all micro-mobility devices, including the technical specifications and requirements for personal and commercial use.