Abu Dhabi roads to have electronic warning signs

The Abu Dhabi Department of Transport will install more than 80 electronic traffic signs in the city, which will warn of changing road conditions.

The Variable Electronic Message Signs (VMS) will be installed in the first half of next year.

They will give motorists live information in Arabic and English on traffic congestion, building works, roadblocks, crashes and weather conditions so they can change routes or reduce speed.

"The launch of our VMS project is a testament to our commitment to providing our community with safer roads across the city of Abu Dhabi," said Faisal Al Suwaidi, general director of main roads for the department.

"The electronic signs will allow us to communicate with motorists in real time to ensure they are kept up-to-date with necessary traffic information to plan their route accordingly, and be aware of any upcoming traffic issues."

The integrated traffic system is part of a five-year plan to make Abu Dhabi roads smoother, safer and less congested.

There will be 56 signs holding traffic counters that send live data to a central location for real-time analysis. This will be used to send live updates to motorists on upcoming delays.

There will be 38 signs that notify drivers of road closures and 48 signs that give lane-specific information on speed limits, lane closures, road diversions and congestion.

The signs will display warnings for dangerous weather such as fog and rain, so motorists can reduce their speed and drive with extra caution.