RTA launches new AI system to transform Dubai bus operations
Decision-making time reduced to under one minute
DUBAI – The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched an artificial intelligence-powered system designed to improve the management and operation of Dubai’s public bus network under a wide range of operational conditions.
The platform monitors more than 1,100 buses and supports 26 operational scenarios, enabling quicker responses to changing transport demands.
The initiative forms part of the authority’s wider strategy to strengthen Dubai’s smart mobility ecosystem while enhancing operational flexibility and customer experience.
Smart operations
The new system is designed to improve the readiness of Dubai’s public transport network by responding swiftly to operational changes across different modes of transport, including Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram. By analysing real-time operational data, it helps maintain service continuity while ensuring buses can be deployed efficiently whenever disruptions or changing passenger demand occur.
أطلقت #هيئة_الطرق_و_المواصلات في دبي نظاماً مدعوماً بالذكاء الاصطناعي لإدارة وتشغيل الحافلات بكفاءة عالية في مختلف الحالات التشغيلية، حيث يتولّى مراقبة أكثر من 1,100 حافلة، ويدعم 26 سيناريو تشغيلياً مختلفاً، الأمر الذي يسهم في تعزيز المرونة التشغيلية، ورفع جاهزية منظومة النقل… pic.twitter.com/DQITQaeged
— RTA (@rta_dubai) July 6, 2026
According to RTA, the technology reinforces its commitment to adopting advanced digital solutions that improve the efficiency, flexibility and sustainability of public transport services. The project also supports Dubai’s broader smart city ambitions by delivering proactive, technology-driven services that meet growing customer expectations and keep pace with the emirate’s rapid development.
Rapid decisions
Marwan Al Zarooni, Director of Buses at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said the Decision Support System was developed by the agency’s Bus Operations Control Centre in collaboration with the Artificial Intelligence Centre within the Corporate Technology Support Services Sector.
He said the platform significantly shortens the time required for operational decision-making and bus deployment. Tasks that previously took between 30 and 60 minutes can now be completed in less than one minute, allowing faster responses and more efficient management of operational resources.
Al Zarooni added that the Artificial Intelligence Centre, together with RTA’s enterprise Dataiku platform, has enabled the development of advanced capabilities that support real-time decision-making and improve the efficiency of operational processes, further strengthening RTA’s use of artificial intelligence within Dubai’s smart mobility network.
Real-time response
The system combines real-time data, machine learning technologies and advanced optimisation algorithms to identify the most suitable buses for deployment based on operational requirements. It then dispatches them instantly while maintaining the efficiency of the wider public transport network and minimising any impact on service levels.
RTA said the Bus Operations Control Centre plays a key role in ensuring the uninterrupted flow of public transport services across Dubai. The introduction of the AI-powered system marks a significant step towards data-driven operations, enabling faster and more informed decisions while improving service reliability and enhancing the overall passenger experience.