Dubai's RTA Launches Phase II Study For Expanding Intelligent Traffic Systems

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has initiated the study and design of Phase II of the Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) Improvement and Expansion Project. This phase aims to cover 100 percent of the emirate's main roads and adopt the latest intelligent technologies, such as Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS). The project aligns with directives from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, to support Dubai's efforts to become the smartest city in the world.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, stated that Phase II will expand the coverage of the main road network from 60 percent to 100 percent by 2026. The road network covered by the system will extend from 480 km to 710 km. This expansion aims to enhance road network management and traffic flow through better monitoring and faster response times to incidents.

The project will provide instant information to the public about road conditions via new Variable Message Signs (VMS) and smart applications. These tools are designed to help distribute traffic effectively. The project also aims to enhance personal mobility by integrating modern technologies and self-driving transport solutions, supported by a comprehensive ITS infrastructure.

Al Tayer highlighted that the initial phase included adding 116 traffic surveillance cameras, bringing the total to 311 cameras. Additionally, 100 incident monitoring and vehicle counting devices were installed, increasing the total to 227 devices. The installation of 112 VMS units relays real-time information about road conditions.

Other installations include 115 travel time and speed measurement devices, 17 weather sensor stations, 660 km of electric power lines, and a fibre optic network spanning 820 km. These enhancements have improved incident monitoring by 63 percent, reduced response times by 30 percent, enhanced traffic flow, increased traffic management efficiency, and reduced journey times by 20 percent through VMS.

Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Centre

The RTA manages traffic in Dubai through the Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Centre at Al Barsha. This centre is one of the largest and most sophisticated traffic control centres globally. It employs innovative technologies and traffic management systems to meet Dubai's expansion goals.

The centre utilises artificial intelligence, big data, the Internet of Things, advanced communication systems, and various monitoring devices to provide smart services and gather important information. It oversees Dubai's current and future road networks and maintains a 100 percent connection to the traffic lights control system.

Advanced Traffic Control System

The centre features an advanced traffic control system called "iTraffic," enhanced by AI technologies and big data analysis tools to support decision-making. Its responsibilities include ensuring smooth traffic flow, managing incidents and emergencies, monitoring operational systems, and reporting malfunctions.

This initiative positions Dubai alongside leading cities in ITS like Singapore and Seoul. The RTA's efforts reflect a commitment to leveraging advanced technologies for efficient traffic management and improved urban mobility.

With inputs from WAM