RTA Unveils Tech-Driven Phase II of ITS Initiative

In alignment with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has initiated Phase II of the Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) Improvement and Expansion Project. This effort is part of Dubai’s mission to become the world’s smartest city by integrating advanced ITS technologies and smart software solutions.

Tech-Driven Road Coverage

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, stated, “Phase II of the Intelligent Traffic Systems project will increase the coverage of Dubai’s main road network from 60% to 100% by 2026. This expansion will extend the system’s reach from 480 km to 710 km, significantly enhancing road management and traffic flow.”

The new system will enable better monitoring and quicker responses to incidents, providing real-time updates to the public via Variable Message Signs (VMS) and smart applications. This comprehensive infrastructure will integrate modern technologies and self-driving solutions to meet current and future mobility needs.

Enhancing Connectivity with Advanced Tech

Al Tayer detailed the project’s advancements, noting, “The initial phase added 116 traffic surveillance cameras, 100 incident monitoring devices, 112 Variable Message Signs, 115 travel time measurement devices, 17 weather sensor stations, and constructed extensive power and fiber optic networks. These improvements have boosted incident monitoring by 63%, cut response times by 30%, enhanced traffic flow, and reduced journey times by 20%.”

The project’s integration with the Enterprise Command and Control Centre and Dubai Police General HQ has been pivotal in these achievements.

AI-Powered Traffic Management

RTA manages traffic through the Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Center at Al Barsha, one of the world’s most advanced traffic control centers. This facility employs innovative technologies, including AI, big data, IoT, and sophisticated communication systems, to deliver smart services and gather critical data.

The Dubai ITS Centre maintains a 100% connection to the traffic lights control system and features an advanced AI-enhanced traffic control system called “iTraffic.” This system supports decision-making with big data analysis, ensuring smooth traffic flow, efficient incident management, and rapid emergency responses.

By adopting these state-of-the-art technologies, Dubai aims to position itself alongside global ITS leaders like Singapore and Seoul, paving the way for a smarter, more efficient urban mobility future.