AI cuts Dubai bus accidents by more than half

Raqeeb is one of 75 AI projects that have been rolled out as part of the Smart City and Artificial Intelligence Programme

 The use of artificial intelligence has led to a drastic reduction in the number of accidents caused by tired bus drivers on Dubai’s roads. Courtesy: RTA

The use of artificial intelligence has led to a drastic reduction in the number of accidents caused by tired bus drivers on Dubai’s roads.

The Roads and Transport Authority’s Raqeeb System, which monitors the well-being of 300 bus drivers, detected five to eight cases of exhaustion or lack of attentiveness each day.

That led to a 65 per cent reduction in the number of fatigue-related accidents overall, according to the RTA. The authority has since introduced the system into two of its Dubai Trams on a trial basis.

Raqeeb is one of 75 AI projects which have rolled out as part of the Smart City and Artificial Intelligence Programme across Dubai.

"The RTA supports the transformation of Dubai into a smart city to provide happiness and luxurious living to residents by offering world-class standard services,” said Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the board of executive directors.

“Given the importance of smart mobility to the concept of smart cities, the RTA has prioritised the convenience and welfare of people when planning and constructing its projects."

The AI projects also include surveillance cameras in more than 10,000 taxis, which contributed to an 83 per cent rise in customer satisfaction, according to the RTA.

Another AI project to monitor bus lanes has reduced the number of bus lane violations by 83 per cent and improved the punctuality of buses by 20 per cent.

In addition, a smart pedestrian signalling system has been introduced in 15 locations, increasing or decreasing the window based on the number of pedestrians looking to cross the road.

Even learner drivers’ skills are being tested using AI technology.

"The RTA has also accomplished the smart yard for testing trainee drivers in 14 locations. Driver testing vehicles have been transformed into smart vehicles capable of detecting the testing manoeuvres and measuring the driver’s response to each of them,” said Mr Al Tayer.

“The yard is fitted with high-power cameras and sensors connected to a central processor capable of gathering information and working out errors automatically. The system automatically figures out if the test result is fail or pass.”

Earlier this month, the UAE adopted an eight-point plan to place the country at the forefront of global efforts to develop AI.

The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 will involve the rapidly developing technology being implemented across sections of society, from government services to education.