Dubai schools have tightened restrictions on electric scooters, e-bikes, and other motorised personal transport devices, citing a surge in accidents involving young riders. Several institutions have introduced strict policies, warning that violations could result in confiscation and reporting to authorities.
The move follows growing concerns from school administrators and law enforcement over unsafe riding practices, including speeding, swerving into traffic, and failure to use protective gear.
Dubai International Academy Introduces Blanket Ban
Dubai International Academy – Emirates Hills has implemented a comprehensive ban on electric scooters, electric bicycles, electric motorbikes, and similar motorised devices across its campus.
In a circular issued to parents, the school confirmed that, effective February 9, students are prohibited from bringing any motorised transport devices onto school premises. This restriction extends to entrances and surrounding access points during both arrival and departure times.
The move comes amid growing safety concerns. The school pointed to a noticeable rise in serious accidents across the UAE involving electric scooters and bikes. While the administration acknowledged that many students use these devices responsibly, it emphasised the risks linked to high speeds, limited protective gear, and the challenges of shared road use.
At the same time, the school clarified permitted alternatives. Non-motorised transport, including standard bicycles and traditional scooters, will continue to be allowed. Students are strongly encouraged to wear helmets and avoid using headphones while riding to further enhance safety.
GEMS Westminster Warns of Reporting Violations
The Westminster School, part of GEMS Education, has also enforced strict measures.
Earlier warnings had already been issued. Executive Principal Carl Roberts had cautioned parents that students under 16 arriving on electric scooters would be reported to authorities. The school also reserves the right to confiscate scooters, holding them until they are collected by parents.
School leadership says the action follows repeated safety incidents. Administrators reported multiple near-collisions at school gates, with some students failing to observe traffic rules or remain aware of surrounding vehicles during peak drop-off and pick-up hours.
The institution has also drawn clear liability boundaries. It clarified that the school bears no responsibility for scooters or bicycles parked outside school grounds.
Rising Accident Figures Drive Crackdown
Official data underscores the scale of the safety concern. Dubai Police recorded 254 road accidents involving e-scooters and bicycles in 2024, resulting in 10 deaths and 259 injuries. The trend has continued into this year. In the first five months of 2025 alone, authorities reported 13 fatalities.
Investigations point to risky riding behaviour as a key factor. Police identified sudden lane swerving into vehicle traffic as one of the leading causes of fatal crashes. Several cases have involved minors and pedestrians, intensifying scrutiny around teenagers operating high-speed motorised devices.
Enforcement has also tightened. Dubai Police have cracked down on youths riding high-powered e-bikes at speeds exceeding 100 km/h, citing serious risks to both riders and other road users.
Some Schools Permit Use Under Strict Conditions
While many schools have enforced outright bans, others have chosen regulated use instead. Delhi Private School Dubai, for instance, permits e-scooters but under strict safety conditions.
To begin with, riders must be 16 or older, hold a valid licence or RTA permit, wear helmets, and submit written parental consent. In addition, the school caps the maximum speed outside campus at 20 km/h to reduce risk.
Behavioural rules are equally firm. The school prohibits reckless riding, including stunts or swerving near traffic and pedestrians. Any violations carry consequences, ranging from disciplinary action and suspension to permanent confiscation of the device.
UAE Law on E-Scooters
Beyond school campuses, UAE regulations also impose strict safety rules on e-scooter use. Riders must be at least 16 years old and hold either a valid driving licence or an e-scooter permit issued by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority. Helmets and reflective gear are mandatory.
Moreover, authorities restrict e-scooters to designated lanes and pedestrian zones, with a maximum speed limit of 20 km/h. Riding on highways or major roads remains strictly prohibited.
Violations carry financial and legal consequences. Fines range from Dh200 to Dh500, and authorities may confiscate devices in serious cases.
Against this backdrop, as schools tighten on-campus rules, student safety continues to remain the central priority amid rising concerns over motorised mobility on city roads.
Picture used for illustrative purposes.
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