Tired of red lights? Dubai’s RTA deploys AI to cut traffic signal wait times by 20%

Dubai: Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is applying AI to transform traffic signal control across the city, aiming to reduce waiting times for motorists by up to 20 per cent.

As part of its AI Strategy, launched recently during the inaugural Dubai AI Week, the RTA will implement more than 80 projects and initiatives over the next five years. Enhancing public happiness and intelligent traffic management are among the six pillars of the strategy.

Powered by AI, the real-time traffic signal control system will optimise traffic flow at intersections across Dubai, the RTA said.
“By analysing live and historical data, the AI system will predict traffic flow, simulate real-time scenarios, dynamically adjust signal timing, and reduce waiting times,” the RTA stated.

Improve traffic safety
By predicting traffic patterns in real time and adjusting signals accordingly, this smart system is set to transform the daily commute into a safer ride.
These measures are expected to reduce signal waiting times by up to 20 per cent, improve traffic safety at intersections, and enable smoother flow for public transport and priority vehicles.

“RTA’s AI signal control system is shaping a safer, smoother future for mobility across Dubai,” the RTA noted.

Through the implementation of around 81 programmes by the end of this decade, the RTA aims to cut travel times by 20 to 30 per cent through optimised traffic signal operations and intelligent pedestrian mobility solutions.