Dubai Draft Law Makes Parents Liable for Minors' E Scooter Misuse

A draft law under preparation in Dubai proposes mandatory registration and number plates for electric scooters, alongside legal accountability for parents in cases involving minors. The proposal is being developed by Dubai Police in coordination with the Roads and Transport Authority, as part of efforts to address safety risks linked to micromobility devices.
Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations at Dubai Police, said the measures are intended to curb unsafe practices by holding parents responsible if minors ride in prohibited areas or use scooters in ways that endanger themselves or others. The draft also introduces registration and tracking requirements, with number plates aimed at improving enforcement and deterring illegal use. Authorities noted cases of scooters being modified to reach speeds of up to 120 km/h, significantly above safe operating limits.
The move follows increased enforcement activity targeting unsafe riding. Police have confiscated scooters and taken action against groups performing dangerous stunts, including an operation involving 90 individuals at Kite Beach. Data from 2024 recorded 254 e-scooter and bicycle-related crashes, resulting in 10 fatalities and 259 injuries, including 17 serious cases. The trend continued into 2025, with multiple fatalities reported within short periods, including incidents involving minors.
In the first five months of 2025, authorities recorded 13 deaths linked to e-scooter misuse and jaywalking. Legal action has also been taken in individual cases, including an incident involving a minor where parents were held accountable for endangering a child’s life. Institutional responses have also emerged, with schools tightening rules on electric transport devices. Dubai International Academy – Emirates Hills has banned students from bringing e-scooters, e-bikes and electric motorbikes onto campus, citing safety concerns.