Comprehensive field inspections at Al Awir camps result in 31 violations as authorities move to regulate desert biking activities.
DUBAI – The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched an extensive enforcement and awareness campaign targeting recreational motorcycle rental businesses in the Al Awir desert region. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with various government entities, aims to standardize safety protocols and ensure strict adherence to Dubai’s regulatory framework for off-road biking.
During the operation, RTA field teams conducted 41 site visits covering 58 establishments across 48 desert camps. The inspections resulted in the issuance of 31 violations under Executive Council Resolution No. (18) of 2017, which governs the licensing and regulation of recreational motorcycles in the emirate.
Focus on Safety and Compliance
The inspections highlighted several critical lapses in operational safety. According to the RTA, the most prominent violations included:
- Insurance Failures: Rental offices failing to provide insurance for motorcycles and riders or operating with expired policies.
- Technical Standards: Utilizing motorcycles that did not meet approved security, safety, or environmental specifications.
- Licensing Lapses: Operating unlicensed vehicles, vehicles with expired registrations, or those lacking visible number plates.
- Gear Violations: Allowing riders to operate motorcycles without the mandatory protective riding gear.
Saeed Al Ramsi, Director of Licensing Activities Monitoring at the RTA, emphasized that these periodic campaigns are vital for maintaining Dubai’s reputation as a safe destination for residents and tourists alike.
“Through these field teams, we aim to verify the compliance of establishments with applicable laws to ensure the well-being of all users. This is especially important as these areas witness a significant surge in activity during the peak outdoor season,” Al Ramsi stated.
Digital Awareness Initiative
To complement the enforcement drive, the RTA distributed bilingual awareness materials in Arabic and English. These resources, accessible via QR codes at all rental locations, provide a comprehensive guide on regulatory requirements and the specific penalties associated with violations.
The RTA has reaffirmed its commitment to strategic safety objectives, urging all operators to maintain full compliance with approved legislation to prevent accidents and ensure a sustainable environment for recreational activities in Dubai’s desert landscapes.
