Dubai lifts ban on e-scooters for metro, tram riders; issues guidelines

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a policy change, lifting its ban on e-scooters inside Dubai Metro and Tram.

The RTA has added new guidelines to ensure safety and convenience for commuters.

Foldable e-scooters without seats will now be allowed on both the metro and tram, provided they meet specific size and weight restrictions.They must be folded when onboard and adhere to a size limit of 120cm x 70cm x 40cm, with a maximum weight of 20kg.

The new rules are designed to address both accessibility and passenger safety.

تماشيًا مع جهود #هيئة_الطرق_و_المواصلات لتحسين تجربة الركاب في #دبي، تُطبق قواعد وإرشادات محدثة للراغبين في اصطحاب السكوتر الكهربائي أثناء التنقل عبر المترو أو الترام. احرص على طي السكوتر ولا تستخدمه داخل المحطات، وتأكد دائمًا من وضعه في المكان المخصص داخل القطارات.

للاطلاع على… pic.twitter.com/x12vcJyfz4

— RTA (@rta_dubai) October 4, 2024

Commuters carrying e-scooters must follow strict guidelines, including:

– Folding the e-scooter when entering and while inside the metro or tram, and should not obstruct doors, seats, aisles, or emergency equipment.
– Charging is strictly prohibited within the station or tram premises.
– E-scooters should be clean and dry; no wet or dirty models are allowed.
– Riders must turn off the power when onboard, and any parts that could potentially cause injury (such as handlebars) must be safely retracted or covered.
– E-scooters must be carried through wide gates at stations, and riders must be responsible for the safe transport of their devices.

 

Additionally, the RTA has outlined safety measures regarding the battery of the vehicles, stating that only compliant batteries – meeting international standards like UL and IEC – will be allowed.

The use of dual batteries or those in poor condition is prohibited, as well as e-scooters that emit harmful environmental contaminants.

RTA introduced ban on e-scooters in March

The move marks a significant shift from the RTA’s previous ban on e-scooters, which was introduced on March 1, to reduce risks associated with last-mile transport inside the metro and tram system.

This policy change also aligns with Dubai’s broader strategy to enhance urban mobility and promote sustainable transport options.

Commuters using e-scooters as a last-mile solution will now find it easier to combine their journeys on public transport, contributing to a more seamless travel experience across the city.

The RTA has urged passengers to stay informed and comply with the updated regulations to avoid any potential penalties.

The authority also reminded commuters to remain mindful of their surroundings while carrying e-scooters and to respect the safety of fellow travellers.