The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has begun the second phase of the Smart Pedestrian Signals project extension throughout the emirate, integrating 10 new sites, bringing the total number of Smart Pedestrian Signal locations to 28 by 2024.
This phase’s debut followed the successful completion of the first phase, which comprised the installation of smart pedestrian signals at different critical points throughout Dubai. The expansion of the project highlights RTA’s commitment to employing cutting-edge smart technologies and the Internet of Things to enable seamless traffic management and improve pedestrian and motorist safety. This work helps to support Dubai’s ambitious goal of becoming a leading smart city and a global leader in intelligent transportation systems.
“The Smart Pedestrian Signals technology is operated by a system reliant on sensors connected to a ground optical system synchronized with the signal’s light operation. It perceives the pedestrian movement on the pavement (before crossing the street) and on the pedestrian crossing (while crossing). This significantly enhances pedestrian safety while also boosting the efficiency of traffic light operations and ensures better management of signal timing,” said Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Intelligent Traffic Management Department, Traffic and Roads Agency, RTA.
“The system proved effective in improving pedestrian safety in cases involving those who need more time to cross, such as elderly residents, determined individuals, and individuals with luggage or pushchairs.” The results showed that no pedestrian accidents happened following the installation of smart pedestrian signals, confirming the project’s effectiveness in improving traffic safety at junctions. It also improved vehicle flow by removing the pedestrian mode when no pedestrians were detected, giving motorists more time.
The selection of sites for installing smart pedestrian signals is guided by criteria developed in collaboration with strategic partners, which include the proximity of pedestrian crossings to one another, the rate of pedestrian incidents at the signal, the street classification (speed limit, number of lanes in each direction), the location and distance to footbridges, and the road design.
