A Guide to Getting E-Scooter License in UAE in 2025

Electric scooters are now a common sight in Dubai. They are fun to ride, good for the environment, and help you move in the UAE’s busy streets easily without using a car. But before you start riding one, there is something important you should know:

You need a permit from the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) to ride an electric scooter in Dubai.
If you already have a driving license, that’s great, you don’t need a separate permit.

But if you don’t have a license, you must take a short online course and get the RTA e-scooter license. It’s free and doesn’t take long.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about legally riding an e-scooter in Dubai, focusing on how to get your permit and what rules to follow for a smooth, safe ride in 2025.

Pro Tip: Thinking about buying your own e-scooter? You can check out models and prices on ElectricScooters.ae, one of the most trusted stores in the UAE for electric bikes and e-scooters.

Who Needs a Dubai E-Scooter Permit?

If you are 16 years old or older and want to ride an electric scooter on Dubai’s streets, you need a permit from the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority).

You need the permit if:

You’re 16 years or older, and
You don’t have a driving license from the UAE.

You don’t need the permit if:

You already have a UAE driving license (car or bike).
You have a driving license from another country.

But it’s highly recommended that even if you don’t need the permit, you must carry your license with you when riding.

Just like driving a car — no license, no ride!

Age Rules: Safety Comes First

The RTA has made some clear age rules to keep everyone safe:

You must be at least 16 years old to ride an electric scooter by yourself.
Kids under 12 are not allowed to ride e-scooters on public paths.
If you are between 12 and 16, you can ride, but only if an adult (18 or older) is with you.

For parents and guardians:

This isn’t just a rule — it’s your responsibility. If a child gets into an accident on a scooter, there can be serious legal trouble. So please, follow these age rules carefully.

How to Get Your E-Scooter License Online: A Simple Step By Step Guide

Getting your e-scooter permit from the RTA is a free and entirely online process.

Before you start, make sure you have:

Your valid Emirates ID (if you are a resident or citizen) OR your passport details and an active UAE mobile number (if you are a visitor).
An active email address.

Now, let’s walk through the steps:

Open the Official RTA Website: Open your web browser and go to the RTA’s official website.
Register Your Details: You will be prompted to choose between “Resident” or “Visitor.” Select the appropriate option and input your required details. Residents will use their Emirates ID number and expiry date, while visitors will provide their passport details. You’ll then enter your mobile number to receive a One-Time Password (OTP) for verification. Finally, register your email address and select your preferred language.
Complete the Mandatory Online Training Course: Once registered, you will be directed to an online portal where you will find a series of training modules. This course is designed to equip you with essential knowledge, covering everything from the technical specifications of e-scooters and their safe operation to understanding specific traffic signs, approved riding zones, and your responsibilities as a rider. Take your time to absorb this information thoroughly.
Take and Pass the Online Theory Test: After completing the training course, it’s time for the theory test. This is a multiple-choice exam, usually taking about 20 minutes. Pay attention to the questions, and if you have gone through the training materials, you should find it manageable.
Download Your Digital Permit: Congratulations! Once you successfully pass the theory test, the RTA will immediately issue your digital e-scooter permit. There’s no physical card – simply download this digital document and save it on your smartphone. Keep it handy, as you might need to show it to authorities if requested while riding.

Where You Can (and Cannot) Ride Your E-Scooter in Dubai

Dubai has carefully designated areas for e-scooter use to integrate them safely into the city’s infrastructure. It’s important to know where you are allowed to ride:

Approved Riding Zones (Currently 21 Zones):

The RTA has expanded the network of designated e-scooter areas, which now includes:

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT)
Dubai Internet City
Al Rigga
2nd of December Street
The Palm Jumeirah
City Walk
Al Qusais
Al Mankhool
Al Karama
Al Twar 1 & 2
Umm Suqeim 3
Al Garhoud
Muhaisnah 3
Umm Hurair 1
Al Safa 2
Al Barsha South 2
Al Barsha 3
Al Quoz 4
Nad Al Sheba 1

These zones were chosen based on population density, infrastructure readiness, and traffic safety. Always look for RTA signage indicating approved e-scooter paths.

Where You Cannot Ride:

Riding outside approved areas can lead to fines. Avoid these spots:

Main roads where the speed limit is above 60 km/h.
Footpaths and jogging tracks (these are for pedestrians and runners).
Certain professional cycling tracks, such as Meydan, Saih Al Salam, and Al Qudra, which are not designated for e-scooter use.
Any area not explicitly marked or designated by the RTA.

Easy Rules for Riding an E-Scooter in Dubai

Once you have your e-scooter license, there are a few important rules you must follow to stay safe and to avoid getting in trouble.

Always Wear a Helmet: You must wear a helmet when riding. It protects your head if you fall. It’s also a good idea to wear proper clothes, closed shoes, and a reflective vest if you’re riding at night.
Watch Your Speed: Most areas allow a top speed of 20 km/h. Some places allow up to 25 km/h, but only on shared paths. Make sure your scooter has a speed limit lock (called a limiter) so you don’t go too fast.
One Person Only: Only one rider per scooter, no passengers are allowed!
Check Your Scooter Before Riding: Make sure it has a white light in front, a red light at the back, a working horn and brakes on both wheels. Also, your scooter must be approved for Dubai’s weather (heat, sand, etc.).
Follow Traffic Rules: Ride in the same direction as traffic. Obey signs, road markings, and signals — just like you would in a car.
Get Off at Pedestrian Crossing: If you reach a zebra crossing, get off the scooter and walk it across.
Park the Right Way: Use official e-scooter parking spots. If there aren’t any, park where you don’t block people or cars.
Stay Alert: Don’t use your phone or wear headphones in both ears while riding.
You need to focus on the road.
Report Any Accidents: Even if it’s a small accident with no injuries, you must report it to the authorities.
Ride Smart: Don’t ride too close to people, bicycles, or cars. Avoid sharp turns or tricks. Always ride safely — for your sake and others’.

Pro Tip: Read RTA’s official safety stipulation regarding riding electric scooters in Dubai.

Penalties and Fines for E-Scooter Violations in Dubai (2025)

The RTA and Dubai Police are serious about enforcing these rules to maintain public safety. Fines for violations typically range from AED 100 to AED 500. Repeated offenses can lead to more severe penalties, including the confiscation of your e-scooter for up to 30 days or even a temporary riding ban.

Common violations and examples of associated fines include:

Riding without a valid permit or driving license: AED 200
Riding outside approved areas: AED 200 – AED 500 (depending on the location and severity)
Not wearing a helmet or other mandatory protective gear: AED 200
Carrying passengers: AED 300
Exceeding speed limits: AED 100-300
Reckless riding or endangering others: AED 300
Improper parking or obstructing traffic: AED 200-300
Underage riding (below 12) or 12-16 without adult supervision: AED 200
Using a non-compliant or faulty e-scooter: AED 300

The RTA and Dubai Police have also launched a joint Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit to specifically oversee and enforce regulations for e-scooters and bicycles, reflecting the heightened focus on safe usage.

E-Scooters and Dubai’s Public Transport: New Rules for 2025

For those combining e-scooter use with public transport, there’s good news and specific rules to follow:

Metro & Tram Access

As of late 2024 (and continuing in 2025), foldable e-scooters are now permitted on Dubai Metro and Tram. This reversal of an earlier ban aims to make last-mile travel more convenient.

Strict Conditions Apply

Your e-scooter must be foldable and without a seat.
It must fit within specific dimensions: 120 cm (length) x 70 cm (height) x 40 cm (width).
It cannot weigh more than 20 kg.
Absolutely no riding inside Metro or Tram stations, on platforms, or within the trains themselves.
No charging batteries on Metro/Tram premises.
Ensure your e-scooter battery is compliant with international standards and not damaged.
Always use the wide gates when entering or exiting stations.

FAQs

Yes, you need to get a free e-scooter permit from the RTA if you are 16 or older and don’t hold a UAE or international driving license.

Yes, but only in approved areas. Dubai has 21 zones where e-scooters are allowed. You can’t ride on main roads (over 60 km/h), footpaths, or jogging tracks. Always check for RTA signs that show where it’s allowed.

Electric bikes also have to follow RTA safety rules, like: wearing a helmet, not riding on pedestrian-only paths, using bike lanes when available. Electric Bikes and electric scooters have almost the same rules.

Prices vary depending on the model and features. A basic e-scooter starts from around AED 650, while high-end ones can go up to AED 5,000.

Final Words

Electric scooters are a fun and easy way to get around Dubai. But to ride safely and legally, you need to follow the RTA rules. Like getting your free permit, wearing a helmet, and riding only in allowed areas.

If everyone follows the rules, the roads will be safer for all: riders, drivers, and walkers too.

Quick tip: Rules can change sometimes. So it’s a good idea to check the official RTA website every now and then for updates about new areas or changes in scooter laws.

A Guide to Getting E-Scooter License in UAE in 2025