As the use of e-scooters and e-bikes increases in the UAE, particularly in urban areas, insurers need to develop insurance policies for those using these personal mobility devices, according to Mr Anas Mistareehi, CEO of the insurance brokerage eSanad, which runs a digital insurance platform.
The Dubai Police recorded over 7,800 traffic violations in the first six months of 2024. In these cases, 4,474 e-scooters and bicycles were confiscated, according to a report by Khaleej Times. This means that roughly 43 traffic violations were recorded and 24 e-scooters or cycles were seized by the authorities in Dubai daily. The Dubai Police also reported that four people lost their lives in separate accidents involving e-scooters and bicycles in the first half of 2024. The police recorded 25 injuries from January to June this year.
At present, insurers in the UAE do not offer specific policies for e-scooters and mopeds.
Mr Gautam Datta, CEO of Watania International Holding, said, “At the moment, given that there’s no regulatory requirement for licensing for the e-scooters and mopeds, insurance penetration in this segment remains very low in the UAE.”
Mr Mistareehi said, “It’s crucial for insurers to start developing non-traditional insurance products that meet emerging market needs.
“Rather than waiting for authorities to mandate coverage, insurers should proactively design and introduce new policies that align with evolving lifestyles, such as those for e-scooters and other modern mobility solutions.”