Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a pilot drone operation to clean traffic signals across the emirate. The initiative reflects RTA’s ongoing efforts to adopt advanced technologies and smart solutions to improve service quality, optimize resource efficiency, and enhance traffic safety.

According to RTA, the pilot drone initiative eliminates the need for manlifts during cleaning operations. As a result, it improves safety standards while reducing dependence on heavy equipment. In addition, the authority reported lower fuel and water consumption, supporting sustainability goals and reducing emissions linked to conventional methods.

Abdulla Ali Lootah, Director of Roads and Facilities Maintenance at the Traffic and Roads Agency, RTA, said the authority continued to deploy innovative technologies to enhance maintenance activities and ensure consistent performance across Dubai’s road network. He revealed that the pilot drone project included a comparative assessment with traditional cleaning methods, focusing on time, cost, quality of execution, and compliance with safety requirements.

The first phase of the pilot drone operation was carried out at the Marrakech Street–Rebat Street junction. During this stage, a limited traffic closure was implemented to maintain high safety standards. Preliminary results showed a reduction in operational time ranging from 25% to 50%, with the drone cleaning one side of a traffic signal in just three to four minutes.

RTA also reported a reduction in operational costs of up to 15% compared to traditional methods. Moreover, projections indicate savings could increase to 25% in the future with the deployment of more advanced drone technologies.

Key outcomes from the pilot drone operation included:

• Reduced operational time and faster execution
• Lower maintenance costs compared to traditional methods
• Enhanced safety with minimal traffic disruption

Lootah emphasised that RTA will continue the pilot drone operation to ensure effective use of the technology in maintenance activities. He added that the next phase will assess cleaning methodologies while avoiding any impact on traffic flow. These efforts are expected to further strengthen Dubai’s road infrastructure and smart mobility ecosystem.

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