Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority and ride-hailing firm Careem have launched almost 800 rental bicycles from 78 locations across the city.

This is the first phase of the launch will see Careem operating 3,500 bicycles from 350 solar powered designated docking stations in Dubai.

The bikes will be available to the public from 10am on Saturday 29 February in areas including Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah Lake Towers, The Greens, Barsha Heights, Dubai Water Canal, Dubai Media City, Downtown Dubai and Al Qudra.

“This service contributes to Dubai’s sustainability efforts and encourages residents and tourists to enjoy an active and healthy life, providing them with a new transportation option that will improve mobility across the city,” Director General of the Transport Authority, Mattar Al Tayer said.

According to Al Tayer, the rental scheme is part of broader efforts to reduce energy consumption and pollution, while offering a short first and last-mile connection service between public transport stops.

Users will be able to hire and pay through the Careem Bike app, which allows them to unlock the bicycle by scanning the QR code or entering a five-digit code from the application into the station.

Those riding the bicycles will have to stick to a ‘safe speed’ of 30 kph limit.

The Roads and Transport Authority also used the launch to remind cyclists of the need to follow the laws and regulations when travelling on a bicycle. This includes a ban on bicycles being used on roads that have a top speed of 60 kph or more.

Furthermore, cyclists should get off their bicycles when on a crossing point, wear a protective helmet, a reflective vest and ride on the right side of the bicycle track. They should also keep a safe distance from the vehicles in front, should not use earphones and follow road safety rules.

Bicycles will not be rented to under 15s, unless accompanied by an adult. The ride-hailing firm can track the bicycles via GPS as they travel across Dubai.

“We are pleased and excited to launch the first phase programme in the region.”

Mudassir Sheikha, Chief Executive & Co-founder, Careem