Teenagers and children can increasingly be seen travelling without moving in the UAE, with the aid of electronic self-balancing boards.

The growing popularity of the “hoverboard”, a two-wheeled, battery-powered vehicle controlled by the rider shifting his or her bodyweight, has drawn the attention of Abu Dhabi Police, who warned parents and families of the potential dangers of children using the devices.

Col Jamal Al Ameri, head of communications for the Abu Dhabi Police traffic directorate, said the use of the self-balancing scooters on streets is strictly prohibited and should be used by children in safe areas such as parks and play areas.

But most public areas, including parks and shopping malls, as well as schools have banned the use of the boards, citing the potential hazards they present.

Wayne Howsen, the head teacher of Al Muna Primary School in Abu Dhabi, said the boards were “hugely popular” among pupils and that a number of children had brought them to school, including one group who asked if they could use them to perform yola dancing for National Day. Details