Abu Dhabi Police seized 9,237 electric scooters during the first 10 months of 2026 as part of an intensified traffic crackdown targeting dangerous riding behaviors that threaten public safety.
ABU DHABI: Police have seized 9,237 Abu Dhabi e-scooters over ten months in 2026 after identifying traffic violations that could endanger riders, pedestrians and motorists.
The figures, announced on October 18, reflect ongoing enforcement against electric scooters operating on public roads, moving between vehicles and travelling through areas where their use is not authorised.
Abu Dhabi Police said the violations create serious safety risks and could lead to accidents involving severe injuries or fatalities.
Why did police confiscate 9,237 e-scooters?
According to the Traffic and Security Patrols Directorate, officers identified several dangerous riding practices during enforcement operations.
These included travelling between moving vehicles, failing to pay attention to surrounding traffic and riding without helmets or other protective equipment.
Police explained that such behaviour makes collisions more likely, particularly when electric scooters share road space with larger motor vehicles.
The authorities stressed that compliance with traffic regulations is essential to protecting both scooter users and other road users.
Where are electric scooters prohibited in Abu Dhabi?
Riders must use officially designated routes and areas rather than treating ordinary public roads as unrestricted scooter lanes.
Under Abu Dhabi’s micromobility regulations, certain locations are prohibited unless specific permission or designated facilities are available.
These include walking and jogging tracks, unauthorised pavements, certain higher-speed roads, and bridges or tunnels without approved scooter facilities.
Riding in prohibited areas can attract a Dh500 fine under the applicable rules.
Residents should check local signage and current transport regulations before entering unfamiliar routes.
What safety rules must riders follow?
Abu Dhabi Police have urged riders to wear protective helmets and appropriate safety equipment whenever using electric scooters.
They should remain alert to surrounding vehicles, use designated lanes and avoid weaving through traffic.
Following traffic signals and speed restrictions is also important for reducing the risk of collisions.
The latest campaign highlights how seemingly minor riding decisions can create serious consequences on busy roads.
Why is Abu Dhabi tightening e-scooter enforcement?
Electric scooters have become a convenient option for short journeys and connections between transport services.
However, their growing use requires riders to share urban spaces responsibly with pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
The enforcement figures highlight the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between permitted micromobility routes and ordinary traffic lanes.
Police have reinforced the need for responsible riding and greater awareness of existing traffic requirements.
Impact to expect
The enforcement campaign could encourage safer riding habits, improve compliance with designated routes and reduce dangerous interactions between scooters and motor vehicles. Residents using electric scooters for daily commuting may need to pay closer attention to permitted areas and protective equipment as authorities continue road safety monitoring.
