E-scooters have become a popular mode of transportation in Dubai, with many residents, like 47-year-old Bimbo Calitis, using them daily to move around the city. Calitis, along with his family and friends, find e-scooters to be convenient, practical, and safe as they follow all road safety regulations. However, they are concerned about the reckless riders who have caused accidents, leading to calls for a ban on e-scooters in some communities. Despite this, Calitis believes that e-scooters are still the most economical and efficient way to travel short distances in the city.
Recently, residents have raised concerns about the reckless use of e-scooters in their communities, leading to a ban on e-scooters in the Jumeirah Beach Residence area. This decision was made to enhance the safety of residents and visitors and prevent accidents. Dubai Police have also taken action against violators, seizing 640 bicycles and e-scooters last month due to various violations. Additionally, four people lost their lives in accidents involving e-scooters and bicycles in the first half of 2024.
Despite the growing calls for a ban on e-scooters, responsible riders like Calitis argue that it is the reckless riders who are the problem, not the e-scooters themselves. Dr. Mostafa Al Dah supports this viewpoint and suggests implementing stricter regulations instead of a complete ban. He proposes registering e-scooters, issuing e-licenses, and incorporating technology to track riders’ habits in real-time. Al Dah believes that e-scooters are essential first-and last-mile mobility solutions and lowering speed limits in certain areas could help combat reckless behavior.
Overall, the debate over e-scooter regulations in Dubai continues, with some calling for a ban due to safety concerns while others advocate for stricter rules to control reckless riders. Responsible riders like Bimbo Calitis emphasize the importance of proper usage and following safety guidelines to ensure the continued use of e-scooters as a practical and eco-friendly mode of transport in the city. Authorities are taking steps to address the issue, with a focus on catching violators and implementing measures to improve safety on the roads. Ultimately, finding a balance between promoting e-scooter usage and ensuring public safety remains a key challenge for authorities and residents alike.
