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What To Know
- Dubai is taking a major leap toward becoming a global leader in smart mobility with the introduction of an intelligent traffic system (V2X) that will connect traffic lights directly to vehicle dashboards.
- For the first time, real-time information from the city’s traffic infrastructure will be transmitted directly to vehicles, offering drivers instant updates on road conditions, signal timings, and congestion levels — all without needing to glance at their mobile phones.
- This project aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan and the government’s commitment to use AI and data-driven technologies to enhance quality of life, reduce congestion, and make urban mobility seamless for all residents and visitors.
Dubai is taking a major leap toward becoming a global leader in smart mobility with the introduction of an intelligent traffic system (V2X) that will connect traffic lights directly to vehicle dashboards. The initiative, announced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), marks a milestone in the emirate’s journey toward creating a fully connected, AI-driven transport network.
Set for rollout between 2027 and 2028, the Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) system will cover approximately 620 intersections and traffic lights across Dubai. For the first time, real-time information from the city’s traffic infrastructure will be transmitted directly to vehicles, offering drivers instant updates on road conditions, signal timings, and congestion levels — all without needing to glance at their mobile phones.
Transforming Traffic Management with AI and Digital Twins
The V2X network will operate as a key component of the Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Centre (DITSC). Using artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and digital twin technologies, the system will analyse real-time data to optimize traffic signals, reduce delays, and enhance road safety.
According to Engineer Salahuddin Al Marzooqi, Director of Intelligent Traffic Systems at RTA, the new platform “represents the future of traffic management in Dubai.” It will not only control signal timings but also predict traffic patterns and simulate different scenarios before making live operational decisions.
“The main goal,” Al Marzooqi explained, “is to reduce driver distraction by integrating all essential traffic information into the car’s dashboard, helping prevent accidents and ensure smoother mobility.”
Real-Time Information at Your Fingertips
Once implemented, the V2X system will deliver a wide range of live updates directly to dashboards, including:
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Remaining green-light duration and red-light countdowns
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Signal status at upcoming intersections
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Recommended driving speeds to catch green lights efficiently
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Congestion alerts, road closures, and accident notifications
In later stages, the system will introduce Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication, enabling cars to share information with one another about slowdowns, obstacles, or hazards ahead — further enhancing driver awareness and reducing collision risks.
Integration with Car Manufacturers
The RTA is already coordinating with global car manufacturers to ensure new models come equipped with built-in connectivity features compatible with Dubai’s smart traffic infrastructure.
For owners of older vehicles, RTA plans to introduce add-on devices and integrations via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to access real-time traffic data without installing complex hardware.
This approach ensures that both new and existing car owners can benefit from the connected system, advancing the city’s Smart Connected Vehicles project inclusively.
Safer, Smarter Roads Ahead
With over 620 signalized intersections across the emirate, RTA’s smart traffic initiative represents one of the most ambitious mobility projects in the region.
Using AI-powered cameras and computer vision analytics, the V2X network will continuously monitor vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians to make instant adjustments to traffic lights, improving flow efficiency and minimizing wait times.
The technology will also enhance pedestrian safety by predicting crossing patterns and adjusting signals accordingly.
Phased Rollout and Future Vision
The infrastructure foundation is expected to be completed within two years, followed by integration with automotive brands and a pilot testing phase before full deployment between 2027 and 2028.
Once operational, Dubai will join the ranks of the world’s smartest cities — alongside Tokyo, Singapore, and Seoul — in leveraging real-time connectivity for safer, more efficient transportation.
This project aligns with Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan and the government’s commitment to use AI and data-driven technologies to enhance quality of life, reduce congestion, and make urban mobility seamless for all residents and visitors.
A Glimpse into the Future of Driving
The V2X system is more than just a smart traffic initiative — it’s a step toward a future where vehicles, infrastructure, and people communicate effortlessly. By merging connectivity with automation, RTA aims to redefine the driving experience in Dubai, making every journey safer, smarter, and smoother.
