The Abu Dhabi government is working on sustainable mobility solutions. Different alternative transportation mediums are introduced in the Emirates including bicycles, scooters and e-scooters. To ensure the safety of people using scooters, e-scooters and bicycles, new laws and regulations are enforced in Abu Dhabi. These regulations are carefully drafted to address traffic-related issues encountered by the riders.
Let’s take a closer look at the new micro mobility laws in Abu Dhabi including bicycles, electric scooters and scooters.
To Whom this Law will be Subjected?
According to ITC, the new regulations will be applicable to scooters, e-scooters, bicycles and all other micro mobility devices. Moreover, all companies and individuals offering commercial services related to eco-friendly transportation will also be subject to the law.
The law will also be applicable on rented bicycles, electric bikes and scooters. Other than these transportation modes, all micro mobility vehicles that are permissible by the law to use bicycle lanes in the Emirates are also included in the list.
Bicycle and Electric Scooter Regulations in Abu Dhabi
Before we go through the new micro mobility rules in Abu Dhabi, let’s revise the definition of authorised and unauthorised bicycle and electric scooter povided by Abu Dhabi police. According to the definition, any two-wheeled (or more) functions with the help of human power and does not have an automated engine is a bicycle.
Whereas, any two-wheeled (or more) vehicle that uses electric power and has an electric motor is considered as an electric scooter. However, it should not have any seat and should be operated while standing.
Remember that users must adhere to all the traffic laws and in case of any breach will be subjected to pay traffic fines in Abu Dhabi. Now let’s go through the new rules:
Number of People
Regardless of the seating capacity, only one individual can ride a bicycle, scooter or electric bike at a time.
Restricted Lanes and Roads
According to the new electric scooter rules in Abu Dhabi, all micro-mobility and different types of bicycles are restricted to use the lanes and roads dedicated for the bicycles only.
In case, there are no dedicated roads in the area, riders are permitted to drive on the side roads. However, the speed limit on the road must be 20km/h. All types of stunts that may harm pedestrians or the cyclists themselves are strictly prohibited.
While riding, pedestrians must be given priority and a safe distance should be maintained from them. Also, the speed should be reduced on the crossways and traffic signals.
Prohibitions
Micro mobility laws in Abu Dhabi also strictly prohibit cyclists to hold on to any other car on the road. Furthermore, it is completely prohibited for them to travel in the opposite direction of traffic flow under any circumstances.
Safety Gear
It is obligatory for all riders to wear safety gear while riding bicycles, scooters and electric bikes. In addition to helmets, riders must wear reflective clothes during the nighttime.
Furthermore, the cycles and scooters can only be parked in the designated parking areas and it is forbidden to chain bicycles along with traffic lights and poles.
Rental Bicycle Rules and Regulations in Abu Dhabi
Bicycle rentals in Abu Dhabi are permitted to operate after adhering to the following rules and regulations.
Operation Permit
ITC permits rental companies to operate only after acquiring the official permit issued by ITC. Other than that, no company is allowed to operate rental services for bicycle and electric scooters in the Emirate. Also, companies are only allowed to rent electric bikes to individuals aged 18 years or above.
Timely Maintenance
The rental operators are restricted to maintain their vehicles as per the technical specifications mentioned by ITC. Moreover, they are also obligated to regularly maintain their vehicles to cater to the road safety requirements.
All the vehicles must have a safety sticker advising users not to stop on any pedestrian walkway or building entry or exit point.
Smart App and Contact Number
Companies should provide every renter with an operational phone number that can be contacted in case of any malfunction or emergency.
In addition to contact numbers, renting companies should also have their own smart app that clearly states all the regulations and safety instructions regarding bicycles and electric bicycles. The safety and security of users’ information are also the responsibility of the renting company.
GPS Tracking Devices
It is necessary for rental companies to fit every electric bike with a tracking system. This is to ensure the safety and security of all the parties involved in smart mobility solutions. As per the law, enough insurance should be provided to cover any damage caused to the cycles.
Technical Specifications of Vehicles as per New Rules
The technical specification according to the new rules and regulations makes the usage of the white headlight, red tail light, handlebar-mounted sound alert and working brakes at least on rear wheels compulsory.
Moreover, according to the Abu Dhabi police single-seat electric bicycles are not allowed for use in the Emirate.
This was all about the new micro mobility laws in Abu Dhabi. These vehicles play a significant role in achieving the smart mobility vision of the Emirate. If you want to contribute to the vision, browse through these used bicycles for sale in Abu Dhabi and purchase your own smart mobility vehicle.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more information on rules for electric scooters in Abu Dhabi.
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