E-scooters banned from public parks in Dubai

Authorities confirm that the vehicles can be used legally in only five areas of the city

E-scooters may be used legally in only five areas of Dubai. Antonie Robertson / The National

E-scooters are banned from public parks in Dubai, authorities said.

Dubai Municipality said the move was to protect other park users.

They are already prohibited in most of the emirate.

"For everyone's safety at public parks, #DubaiMunicipality announced that it is not allowed to use electric scooters in public parks to avoid accidents," the authority posted on Twitter.

“Please follow Dubai Municipality’s instructions to ensure your safety and the safety of everyone.”

Dubai is running a year-long trial of e-scooters in five areas of the city in an effort to establish their safe use in the emirate.

The two-wheelers are available to rent through mobile applications and cost Dh3 to unlock and 50 fils for every minute thereafter. Riders must be aged 14 or older.

Located in popular commuter hot spots, rental stations can be found in Downtown Dubai’s Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai Internet City, 2nd of December Street, Al Rigga and Jumeirah Lakes Towers.

People who own e-scooters may also use them freely, but only in the  five designated zones.

Using e-scooters anywhere else is illegal, and anyone found doing so could be stopped by police, authorities said.