254 accidents, 10 deaths in a year: Dubai seizes 656 scooters in Al Barsha safety crackdown

In a decisive move to clamp down on traffic violations and unsafe riding practices, Dubai Police confiscated a total of 656 scooters in the Al Barsha area in 2024, authorities confirmed on Saturday. The announcement followed a formal inspection visit to Al Barsha Police Station by Major General Harib Mohammed Al Shamsi, Deputy Commander-in-Chief for Criminal Affairs, as part of the Dubai Police’s annual inspection program for general departments and police stations.

Focus on Safety and Operational Readiness

During the inspection, Maj-Gen Al Shamsi closely reviewed a range of performance metrics and operational initiatives. These included:

He also inspected the efficiency and presence of officers on duty.

The results showed a 100 per cent presence rate at reporting locations, successfully meeting operational targets. The inspection also emphasized road safety operations, efforts to curb negative traffic behaviors, and apprehension of violators through checkpoints established across the area. Commenting on the scooter confiscations, Maj-Gen Al Shamsi stated that the 656 e-scooters were seized due to multiple traffic law violations committed by the riders.

Rise in Accidents Spurs Joint RTA-Dubai Police Monitoring Unit

The confiscations come against a backdrop of increasing concern over the safety of e-scooter and bicycle use in Dubai. In April 2025, authorities responded by launching a dedicated Personal Mobility Monitoring Unit, specifically tasked with addressing these growing safety issues. Formed through a collaboration between the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Dubai Police, the unit’s key responsibilities include:

The initiative reflects Dubai’s broader strategy to enhance traffic safety and instill a culture of compliance among personal mobility users.

Stark Figures: 254 Accidents, 10 Deaths, and Over 250 Injuries in 2024

The push for tighter regulation is highlighted by concerning statistics from 2024. According to official data, Dubai recorded 254 accidents involving bicycles and e-scooters, which led to:

These figures have alarmed both authorities and the public, highlighting the urgent need for safer personal mobility practices.

Public Concerns: Minors on E-Scooters Without Supervision

One of the most pressing concerns raised by UAE residents involves unlicensed and inexperienced minors operating e-scooters and e-bikes on busy roads without supervision. Parents and community members have increasingly spoken out about seeing teenagers navigating high-traffic areas with little to no regard for traffic laws, often without helmets or any formal training. This behavior not only endangers the young riders themselves but also poses serious risks to pedestrians and motorists sharing the roads.