Look: Dubai Adds 10 New Smart Pedestrian Signals At Different Locations

Dubai has installed smart pedestrian signals at 10 additional places in the emirate, taking the total number of sites with these signals to 27. This is the second phase of the project by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). In the first phase of the project, these signals installed in several locations around the city have proved to produce great results.

The locations covered in this phase include intersections along Omar Bin Al Khattab Street, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Street, Al Satwa Street, Salah Al Din Street, Amman Street, Al Qusais Street (near labour camps), and Oud Metha Street (in front of the school zone).

The signals use cutting-edge technologies to improve traffic systems, enhance road safety, and streamline pedestrian and vehicle movement. It uses intelligent thermal cameras to detect the movement of pedestrians on sidewalks and while crossing. These cameras operate around the clock, accurately detecting the movement even in low-light or night-time conditions. The system integrates with push-button devices to register actual crossing requests, enhancing signal efficiency and optimising timing control.

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The first-of-its-kind system in the region developed by Derq uses behaviour prediction models. The technology can activate flashing warning signs, in-road warning lights, and even traffic signal controllers in anticipation of pedestrians crossing. It effectively preempts any potential conflicts with approaching vehicles.

Mohammed Al Ali, Director of Intelligent Traffic Systems at RTA's Traffic and Roads Agency, said that these signals have produced a positive outcome.“Results have shown improved safety levels at these pedestrian crossings since the signals became operational, demonstrating the system's effectiveness in mitigating risk and enhancing the overall road experience for all users,” he said.

He added that the RTA selected target locations based on what they had learnt in the first phase and a multi-criteria evaluation matrix.“Key considerations include the proximity of pedestrian crossings to each other, the rate of pedestrian-related incidents at the location, road classification including designated speed limits and the number of lanes per direction, the availability and accessibility of pedestrian bridges, and the overall road design,” he said.“These factors collectively determine the feasibility and impact of installing a smart pedestrian signal at a specific site.”

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