E Scooter Permit in Dubai | Rules, Cost, and Application Guide!

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Navigating Dubai on an e-scooter is becoming an increasingly popular, eco-friendly, and cost-effective transportation method.

With the city’s growing infrastructure supporting micro-mobility, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) introduced the E Scooter Permit to ensure rider safety and regulation compliance.

Whether you’re a resident or visitor, having the proper permit is now essential when riding through designated areas.

This blog will serve as your complete guide, explaining the step-by-step process of obtaining your e-scooter license, costs involved, eligibility, rules, and what happens if you ride without one.

If you’re planning to join Dubai’s smart mobility movement, this guide will help you start legally and safely.

What is the RTA E Scooter Permit in Dubai?

The RTA E Scooter Permit is a digital licence introduced by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority that allows individuals to legally operate electric scooters on specific roads within the Emirate.

This initiative supports Dubai’s vision for a smarter, greener city while ensuring that all riders meet basic safety and road-use knowledge requirements.

The permit can be obtained for free through RTA’s online platforms and is mandatory for anyone who does not already possess a valid driving licence.

By introducing this permit, the RTA aims to reduce the number of accidents, regulate e-scooter usage, and create a controlled and sustainable environment for micro-mobility across the city.

Why Do You Need One?

Obtaining an e-scooter permit is not just about legality, it’s also about promoting road safety and responsible transport habits.

Required by law if you don’t possess a driving licence
Helps regulate traffic and pedestrian interaction
Prevents misuse in restricted zones
Educates users on traffic signs and scooter-safe zones
Supports Dubai’s smart mobility and eco-initiatives

Without a permit, you risk fines, confiscation of your scooter, and even potential legal consequences. The permit ensures you’re aware of the city’s rules and can ride responsibly and confidently.

How Can You Apply for an E Scooter Permit in Dubai Online?

Applying for an e-scooter permit in Dubai is a smooth, online process facilitated by the RTA. It’s designed to be user-friendly for both residents and visitors.

Application Steps:

Visit the RTA’s official portal
Choose whether you’re a resident (Emirates ID) or visitor (Passport)
Enter your mobile number and receive a verification code
Fill out basic personal details
Choose your preferred language: English or Arabic

Next Steps After Registration:

Complete 10 online theory lectures covering road rules, scooter specifications, and safety practices
Take a 20-minute theory test
Score at least 75% to pass
Upon passing, download the digital permit from the website or the RTA Smart App

If you already hold a valid driver’s licence (UAE or international), you are exempt from taking the theory test, but must carry your licence while riding.

What Are the E Scooter Permit Dubai Requirements in 2025?

Before applying for your e-scooter permit, ensure you meet the eligibility and technical requirements set by the RTA for 2025.

1. General Requirements

You must be 16 years or older
Have an active mobile number registered in the UAE
Own a valid Emirates ID or passport (for visitors)
Must complete online training and pass the theory test (unless you have a valid driver’s licence)

2. Technical Requirements for Scooters

Operational front and rear lights
Functional horn or bell
Working brakes on both wheels
Scooter must not exceed 20 km/h speed limit
Tires must be in good condition
Must be built to withstand Dubai’s climate conditions

3. Rider Equipment Requirements

A helmet, a reflective vest, and closed shoes are mandatory
Riders must obey traffic signals and avoid distractions (like mobile use)
Scooters must be used by a single person only

Meeting these requirements not only keeps you compliant with Dubai’s law but also ensures your personal safety and the safety of others on the road.

How Much Does an E Scooter Permit Cost in Dubai?

As of 2025, the RTA e-scooter permit is completely free for all applicants. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there are no application fees involved.

However, to obtain the permit, you must complete the required training and pass the theory test online, unless you hold a valid driving licence.

While the permit itself is free, riders should be aware of potential costs related to e-scooter usage:

Fines for riding without a permit
Cost of safety equipment (helmet, vest)
Maintenance or upgrades to meet technical specifications

Rental companies are also required to ensure that their customers either hold this permit or a valid driver’s licence. As policies can evolve, always check the latest updates directly from the RTA before riding.

Where Can You Ride an Electric Scooter Legally in Dubai?

You are allowed to ride e-scooters only in designated zones approved by the RTA. These include cycling and scooter lanes, as well as selected “safe roads” in specific districts across the city.

Designated Locations Include:

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
Jumeirah Lakes Towers
Dubai Internet City
Al Rigga
2nd of December Street
Palm Jumeirah
City Walk
Al Qusais, Al Mankhool, and Karama (safe road areas)

Prohibited Areas:

You are not permitted to ride in areas such as Al Qudra, Meydan, and Saih Assalam bike tracks. These zones are restricted to other forms of transportation. Always follow signage and avoid sidewalks unless specified.

Compliance with location rules is essential to avoid fines and ensure pedestrian safety.

What Are the Updated Electric Scooter Laws and Rules in Dubai?

Dubai has implemented updated electric scooter laws to improve safety and traffic organisation across the city. Riders must be at least 16 years old and are required to wear both a helmet and a reflective vest at all times.

Only one person is allowed per scooter, and using mobile phones or headphones while riding is strictly prohibited. Riders must follow all traffic signs and signals and use designated scooter parking zones. Dismounting at pedestrian crossings is mandatory.

Technical requirements also apply. Scooters must not exceed a speed of 20 km/h and must be equipped with a working bell, brakes, and lights that meet RTA standards. Failure to comply may result in fines, as detailed below:

Violation	Fine (AED)
Riding without a permit	200
Reckless riding	300
Parking violations	200
Exceeding speed limits	100
Carrying passengers	300
Not using safety gear	200

By following Dubai’s updated e-scooter laws, riders can enjoy safer, hassle-free travel. Staying informed helps you avoid fines and ride responsibly across the city.

Do You Need to Pass a Test for the RTA E Scooter Permit?

Yes, unless you hold a valid driving licence, passing the online theory test is mandatory to get your e-scooter permit.

After registering via the RTA portal or app, you are required to complete a course consisting of 10 short educational lectures. These cover technical, regulatory, and safety aspects of e-scooter usage.

Once you’ve completed the lectures, you will be directed to take a 20-minute multiple-choice test. You must score at least 75% to qualify.

The questions typically cover road signs, scooter zones, and safety procedures. If you fail, you are allowed to retake the test.

Those with a valid licence from any recognised authority are exempt from the course and test, though they must carry the licence while riding. Successful applicants receive the e-permit via SMS and on the RTA portal.

How Can You Check Your RTA Scooter Permit Status Online?

Once you’ve applied and completed your test, checking your scooter permit status is easy and can be done digitally through RTA platforms.

Steps to Check Permit Status:

Visit the RTA website or open the RTA Smart App and ensure you have internet access
Log into your account using your Emirates ID or passport number for secure verification and access
Navigate to the “My Docs” section on the app or website where all your documents are listed
Locate your digital scooter permit under the “My Permits” tab
If your permit is not displayed, use the contact support option to resolve the issue quickly

Troubleshooting Tips:

Make sure your test is completed and submitted before checking the permit status online
Check for email or SMS confirmation that your permit application was successful
Ensure you used the same credentials for login as the ones used during registration
Contact RTA customer service at 800-9090 if your permit isn’t showing up and provide your application details

The permit can be saved on your phone as a digital copy. It’s important to have it ready to present if asked by authorities. This instant accessibility ensures you’re always in compliance during your ride.

What Happens If You Ride Without a Scooter Permit in Dubai?

Riding an e-scooter without a permit or a valid driver’s licence can result in various penalties in Dubai. The RTA enforces a strict fine structure for non-compliance to ensure public safety.

Consequences Include:

AED 200 fine for riding without a permit
AED 300 fine for reckless behavior
AED 300 for transporting another passenger
AED 200 for lack of safety gear
AED 200 for riding on unauthorized roads
AED 300 for riding against traffic
AED 200 for disobeying traffic signs

Additional Risks:

Scooter impoundment
Liability for any accidents or injuries
Legal consequences for repeat violations
Prohibition on using rental scooters

Rental companies are required to check if the user holds a valid permit or licence. If they fail to do so, they may also face penalties.

Riders must always carry their digital permit or driver’s licence and adhere to the designated zones to avoid trouble.

Is the E Scooter Permit Part of Dubai’s Smart Mobility Plan?

Yes, the RTA’s e-scooter permit initiative is directly aligned with Dubai’s long-term Smart Mobility Plan. The city aims to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and improve the overall efficiency of its transport system.

E-scooters serve as a sustainable last-mile solution, helping commuters bridge the gap between metro stations and final destinations.

By regulating scooter use through licensing, the RTA ensures that only educated and responsible riders are on the roads. This supports the broader goal of safer urban mobility.

Smart zones, geo-fencing technology, and designated lanes further strengthen this initiative, helping Dubai become a global leader in green transportation.

As the city continues to evolve, integrating micro-mobility options like e-scooters is an important step toward future-proofing urban travel.

Conclusion

Securing your e-scooter permit in Dubai is essential if you want to legally enjoy the convenience of electric scooters within city limits.

With the RTA’s seamless online process, both residents and visitors can easily apply, train, and qualify, all for free. The permit ensures you are well-versed in traffic laws, safety requirements, and authorized zones.

As Dubai advances its smart mobility goals, e-scooters are expected to play a growing role in eco-friendly urban commuting.

Make sure you ride safely, follow regulations, and avoid penalties by staying up to date with RTA policies. Embrace the ride, but always with compliance and caution.