Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has initiated the study and design for Phase II of the Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) Improvement and Expansion Project. The goal of this phase is to increase the coverage of the emirate’s main road network from 60% to 100% by 2026, extending the length of the road network covered by the system from 480km to 710km. This expansion aims to enhance connectivity and improve traffic management in Dubai.
In the initial phase of the project, 116 traffic surveillance cameras were installed, bringing the total to 311 cameras. Additionally, 100 incident monitoring and vehicle counting devices were set up, increasing the total to 227 devices. The installation of 112 Variable Message Signs (VMS) that provide real-time information about road conditions was also completed, along with 115 travel time and speed measurement devices. Furthermore, 17 weather sensor stations, 660km of electric power lines, and an 820km fibre optic network were constructed.
The Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems (ITS) Center at Al Barsha plays a crucial role in managing traffic in the emirate. It utilizes innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, the Internet of Things (IoT), advanced communication systems, and monitoring devices to provide smart services and gather essential information. The center features an advanced traffic control system called “iTraffic” that incorporates AI technologies and big data analysis tools to support decision-making.
Through the Improvement and Expansion Project, RTA aims to adopt the latest intelligent technologies and software, including Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS), to enhance traffic management in Dubai. The project has improved incident monitoring by 63% and reduced response times by 20% through the use of Variable Message Signs (VMS). This expansion is intended to enhance road network management, traffic flow, and provide instant information about road conditions to the public through new VMS and smart applications.
Director General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, Mattar Al Tayer, stated that this project will improve incident monitoring, reduce response times, and provide better traffic distribution through the use of VMS and integration with the Enterprise Command and Control Centre and the Dubai Police General HQ. This project aims to enhance personal mobility by integrating modern technologies and self-driving transport solutions into the ITS infrastructure, designed to meet current and future needs.
It is essential to mention that the Dubai ITS Center is one of the largest and most sophisticated traffic control centers globally, alongside cities like Singapore and Seoul. With the utilization of AI technologies, big data analysis, and advanced communication systems, the center optimizes traffic management in Dubai. The ongoing efforts in expanding the ITS infrastructure indicate Dubai’s commitment to becoming a leading city in the field of intelligent traffic systems and innovative transportation solutions.
