New permits launched for long-distance Abu Dhabi cyclists

Amateur cyclists will now need an electronic permit before undertaking long-distance training on roads with speed limits exceeding 80 kmph.

The new service to "preserve the safety of all road users in accordance with the procedures and regulations in place" has been launched by Abu Dhabi Police in cooperation with the Integrated Transport Center, Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Abu Dhabi Cycling Club.

Cyclists who ride in groups can now submit their applications using the Abu Dhabi Police website within a period of no less than 48 hours from the date of using the permit.

Each permit is evaluated by the Traffic and Patrols Directorate, primarily to confirm the permit's time and requested route.

.@ADPoliceHQ have launched an electronic road permit for amateur group cyclists, available at https://t.co/6nwxoF0oKj. In a few easy steps, groups of amateur cyclists can apply for permits to safely train on roads with speed limits exceeding 80km/h. pic.twitter.com/nATgrpO2Q0

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) August 22, 2021

In order to obtain the permit, cyclists must meet the requirements, such as wearing a helmet, placing front and rear lights on the bike, and providing an escort vehicle to protect the group of riders.

The vehicle must be equipped with hazard lights and adhere to security and safety requirements such as placing bicycles in the designated area without impacting or obstructing traffic.

An Abu Dhabi Media Office report classified the three types of cyclists as recognised by the authorities:

1. As means of transportation within the city, in which bicycles mostly use sidewalks at low speeds.
2. As means of entertainment and at picnics where the speed of the bicycle does not exceed 20 km/h. These are usually used in tourist areas, public parks or residential neighbourhoods. Bicycle lanes within the city are dedicated to this category of users.
3. For sports, where groups of cyclists require distances of at least 50 kilometres and high speeds that sometimes reach 60 km/h. Such groups cycle on main roads.