Several schools in Dubai have announced bans and tighter restrictions on electric scooters, e-bikes and other motorised personal transport devices, citing rising safety risks and an increase in accidents involving students.
At some schools, the ban will take effect from February 9, 2026, and applies not only within school premises but also at school entrances and surrounding access areas during arrival and dismissal times.
School administrations said the move follows repeated near-miss incidents and concerns over serious injuries linked to unsafe riding behaviours.
Schools cite accidents and congestion risks
Circulars issued to parents said the decision was prompted by mounting safety concerns, including students riding at speed near school gates, weaving through traffic and failing to wear protective gear.
Schools noted that heavy congestion caused by school buses, private vehicles and pedestrians during peak hours significantly increases the risk of collisions.
Dubai International Academy announces full ban
Dubai International Academy – Emirates Hills has confirmed a comprehensive ban on:
- Electric scooters
- Electric bicycles
- Electric motorbikes
- All other motorised personal transport devices
Only non-motorised options, such as regular bicycles and push scooters, will continue to be permitted.
The school warned that devices brought to campus in violation of the policy may be confiscated, and serious breaches could be reported to authorities.
GEMS Westminster School flags near-miss incidents
The Westminster School, Dubai, part of GEMS Education, had earlier raised concerns after students were seen narrowly avoiding collisions with vehicles near school entrances.
In messages sent to parents, the school said continued violations could result in confiscation of devices and reporting of under-16 riders to authorities.
Some schools impose strict conditions instead of bans
Other schools, including Delhi Private School Dubai, have not introduced blanket bans but have issued strict safety guidelines for students using e-scooters.
These include:
- Minimum age of 16 years
- Mandatory helmets and protective gear
- Valid permit or licence issued by the Roads and Transport Authority
- Written parental consent
- Compliance with traffic rules and speed limits
- Prohibition on riding on main roads or engaging in reckless behaviour
Students who fail to meet these conditions may face disciplinary action.
Rising accident figures add urgency
The school-level measures come against the backdrop of increasing accidents involving electric scooters and bicycles in Dubai.
According to Dubai Police, at least 254 accidents involving e-scooters and bicycles were recorded in 2024, resulting in 10 fatalities and 259 injuries.
In early 2025, authorities reported 13 fatalities linked to similar incidents. Police have repeatedly warned riders against speeding, riding without protective gear and using non-designated roads.
What the law requires
Under existing UAE and Dubai regulations:
- E-scooter riders must be 16 years or older
- A valid driving licence or RTA permit is required
- Helmets and reflective gear are mandatory
- Riding is permitted only on designated tracks and approved areas
- Typical speed limits are capped at 20 km/h
- Violations may lead to fines, confiscation or legal action
Parents urged to cooperate
Schools have urged parents to discuss the restrictions with their children and make alternative commuting arrangements where necessary, stressing that the measures are aimed at preventing serious injuries.
While policies vary by institution, schools said safety considerations would continue to guide enforcement decisions.
