By Staff Reporter
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has unveiled a cutting-edge AI-powered robotic system, marking a major leap in metro maintenance and positioning the city at the forefront of smart infrastructure.
The new Automated Rail Infrastructure Inspection System (ARIIS) promises to transform how the Dubai Metro is maintained—boosting safety, efficiency, and reliability without disrupting operations.
Developed in collaboration with Keolis MHI and Future Maintenance Technologies (FMT), ARIIS is a fully autonomous robotic platform equipped with LiDAR sensors, lasers, and 3D cameras. It conducts real-time inspections of rail tracks and critical infrastructure, significantly reducing the need for manual interventions.
Abdul Mohsin Kalbat, CEO of RTA’s Rail Agency, described the rollout as a “significant leap” in ensuring Dubai Metro remains among the safest and most advanced transit networks in the world.
The system slashes inspection time by up to 75% and reduces manual inspection work by 70%, cutting man-hours from 2,400 to just 700. By enabling more frequent and accurate checks, ARIIS enhances operational efficiency and supports proactive, data-driven maintenance.
FMT CEO Loic Ayoul praised the collaboration, noting that ARIIS supports Dubai’s Smart City goals by delivering smarter diagnostics, extending infrastructure lifespan, and improving sustainability.
With the ability to cut maintenance costs by up to 25% and improve resource allocation by 40%, ARIIS exemplifies Dubai’s commitment to innovation in public transport. As David Franks, Managing Director of Keolis MHI, noted,
“It’s a game-changer for rail infrastructure management in Dubai.”
The introduction of ARIIS is a strategic step toward future-ready urban mobility, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in intelligent transportation solutions.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
