RTA’s crackdown on delivery riders wins Global Award for Smart Transport Safety

Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has earned a 5-Star International Best Practice (Excellence) Rating from the International Best Practice Competition (IBPC) for its trailblazing use of artificial intelligence to monitor and manage delivery motorbike riders, a sector under increasing pressure for safety and regulation.

In response to the surging growth of the delivery industry, RTA’s Smart Monitoring Centre has implemented an advanced AI system that uses integrated camera technology and real-time data to track delivery rider behaviour, automatically flag violations, and reduce inspection time dramatically. The result: a more accountable, safer, and streamlined ecosystem for both riders and road users.

Raising the bar for road safety

This high-tech inspection system not only detects risky rider conduct such as speeding, lane violations, and unsafe driving but also generates actionable data that supports enforcement and training. It marks a significant leap forward in automating traffic law compliance and reducing accidents involving delivery motorcycles, which have been a growing concern in many urban areas worldwide.

“This model represents a first-of-its-kind framework that prioritises safety in the fast-paced delivery sector through real-time monitoring. We are proud to see it recognised globally,” said a RTA spokesperson.

Local impact

While the award recognises the full scope of RTA’s smart inspection initiatives, the delivery motorbike monitoring system stood out for its innovation and impact.

The RTA’s AI-powered real-time surveillance tracks down compliance across all passenger transport modes from taxis and buses to marine transport and e-hailing services. The initiative boosts operational efficiency, enforces regulations, and significantly enhances road and rider safety.

Smart mobility push

The recognition also covers key RTA projects including:

E-hailing taxi strategy: Transitioning traditional taxi services to digital platforms like Uber and Careem has reduced road congestion, cut roaming taxi traffic, and improved response times for riders.

Smart student transport: An AI-driven, app-based booking service tailored to ensure student safety, lower costs, and reduce unlicensed operators on the road.es.