Home Industry Automotive Watch: RTA unveils AI-powered detection system for Dubai’s roads The smart vehicle boasts several advanced features that improve the detection of road conditions and the inspection of traffic diversions by Marisha Singh July 11, 2024 Image credit: Dubai Media Office Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched a pilot project featuring a vehicle equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) to automate the detection of road damage and inspect traffic diversions. This initiative is part of RTA’s commitment to harnessing advanced digital and AI technologies to enhance the quality of the road network and improve traffic safety in Dubai, aligning with their vision to be a global leader in seamless and sustainable mobility. High-tech road monitoring The innovative vehicle is fitted with high-precision tools, including cameras, sensors, and various technical devices, to gather data about road conditions and ensure traffic diversions comply with RTA’s stringent technical standards. These tools automatically detect damage to road infrastructure, generate detailed reports, and upload them to the system without human intervention. Efficiency and safety Hussain Al Banna, CEO of the Traffic and Roads Agency, emphasised RTA’s aims to improving the efficiency of monitoring and detecting road damage, as well as response times. “The deliverables will contribute to extending the lifespan and sustainability of assets and facilities while maintaining the urban aesthetic of Dubai. This process will also enhance the performance of the infrastructure and road network across the emirate, support economic and population growth, and reinforce Dubai’s standing as an ideal and safe destination for residents and visitors,” Al Banna stated. Features The smart vehicle boasts several advanced features that improve the detection of road conditions and the inspection of traffic diversions. It utilises automated technologies to identify damages and transmit data for processing and analysis using pre-fed data and self-learning technology. This approach provides up to 30 per cent more comprehensive site coverage and reduces the time required for inspections by at least 70 per cent compared to traditional methods, as per the official statement. Al Banna highlighted that the AI-powered system can generate highly accurate reports on road damage, achieving accuracy rates exceeding 85 per cent compared to conventional methods. It also facilitates the verification of traffic diversions, ensuring their implementation adheres to approved specifications, thereby guaranteeing smooth and safe traffic flow for road users. Future-ready initiatives Al Banna added, “RTA will continue efforts to keep pace with the industrial revolution and adopt the latest digital technology in asset inspection, evaluation, and proactive maintenance. RTA is committed to implementing best practices and standards in asset sustainability and providing safe and smooth mobility for motorists and pedestrians in Dubai, ensuring safe and efficient road crossings.” Watch the video to see the AI-powered detection system in action and learn more about RTA’s innovative approach to road maintenance and safety. View this post on Instagram A post shared by هيئة الطرق والمواصلات، دبي (@rta_dubai) WATCH: Sheikh Hamdan takes the wheel — or not? — in self-driving taxi Tags AI-assisted Artificial Intelligence Dubai Roads RTA traffic diversions You might also like Dubai’s RTA introduces app-based minibus pooling service How agentic AI will boost the digital economy across the Middle East Eid Al Etihad 53: Free parking, Dubai Metro timings – details here Dubai Salik toll hikes for 2025: What drivers need to know