By Desmond Nleya
Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a groundbreaking smart traffic initiative — the Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) system — designed to link Dubai’s traffic signals directly to vehicle dashboards. The move marks a major step toward the emirate’s vision of becoming a fully connected smart mobility hub.
Set for rollout across 620 intersections between 2027 and 2028, the system will transmit real-time traffic data from infrastructure to vehicles, helping drivers make safer, faster, and more informed decisions on the road.
The initiative, part of the Smart Connected Vehicles Project, uses artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twin technology to enhance traffic management, reduce congestion, and boost road safety.
According to Engineer Salahuddin Al Marzooqi, Director of Intelligent Traffic Systems at RTA, the V2X network will be a key component of the Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Centre (DITSC), using AI to optimize signal timings and improve traffic flow.
Coordination is already underway with car manufacturers to ensure new vehicles come equipped with built-in connectivity features. Older vehicles will also benefit through add-on devices or via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to access live updates on their dashboards — minimizing mobile phone distractions.
Through the V2X platform, drivers will receive real-time information such as signal countdowns, congestion alerts, optimal crossing speeds, detour notifications, and accident warnings. Future phases will also include vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, enabling cars to share alerts about potential hazards or slowdowns ahead.
Al Marzooqi emphasized that integrating traffic data directly into car dashboards will “reduce distractions and prevent accidents by keeping drivers’ focus on the road.”
Currently, Dubai operates 620 signalized intersections, all of which will be connected to the AI-powered system. Using advanced cameras and computer vision analytics, the network will monitor vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians in real time, enabling instant traffic adjustments.
Construction of the digital infrastructure will take approximately two years, followed by testing and integration phases before full deployment. Once operational, the V2X system will place Dubai among the world’s most advanced cities in intelligent traffic management.
Source: Gulf News
