Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has launched a pilot project using drones to clean traffic signals, marking a shift toward safer, faster, and more sustainable road maintenance practices across the emirate.
The initiative replaces traditional cleaning methods that rely on manlifts and heavy equipment with drone technology, significantly reducing safety risks to workers. By removing the need for elevated machinery on busy roads, the approach also limits traffic disruption during maintenance operations.
According to the RTA, the pilot aligns with its broader strategy to integrate advanced technologies into daily operations, improve service quality, and optimise the use of resources while maintaining high traffic safety standards.
Abdulla Ali Lootah, Director of Roads and Facilities Maintenance at the Traffic and Roads Agency, said the authority continues to explore innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and consistency across Dubai’s road network. He noted that the pilot included a detailed comparison between drone-based cleaning and conventional methods, assessing performance across time, cost, quality, and safety compliance.
The first phase of trials was conducted at the Marrakech Street and Rebat Street junction, where limited traffic closures were introduced to maintain safety. Initial results showed a reduction in operational time of between 25 and 50 percent, with drones cleaning one side of a traffic signal in just three to four minutes. Operational costs were also reduced by up to 15 percent, with projections suggesting savings could reach 25 percent as drone technology advances.
Lootah said the pilot will continue, with the next phase focusing on refining cleaning methods and ensuring zero impact on traffic flow, reinforcing the resilience and performance of Dubai’s road infrastructure.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
