RTA launches AI system to improve Dubai bus response times
Published Date :
The AI-powered Decision Support System monitors more than 1,100 buses, supports 26 scenarios and reduces deployment decisions to under one minute.
Roads and Transport Authority has launched a new artificial intelligence-powered system to enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of bus operations across Dubai. The Decision Support System monitors more than 1,100 buses and supports 26 operational scenarios, helping improve flexibility and strengthen the readiness of the city’s public transport network
Faster response across the network
The system is designed to improve response times during operational changes affecting other transport services, including the Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram.
By enabling faster bus deployment when required, RTA aims to maintain service continuity, reduce disruption and improve the overall passenger experience across the network.
Supporting Dubai’s smart city vision
The initiative reflects RTA’s ongoing efforts to adopt advanced technologies that improve efficiency, flexibility and sustainability in public transport.
It also supports Dubai’s broader smart city strategy by delivering proactive, data-driven services that align with the city’s rapid development and growing mobility demands.
Decisions in under one minute
Marwan Al Zarooni, Director of Buses at RTA’s Public Transport Agency, said the system was developed by the Bus Operations Control Centre in collaboration with the Artificial Intelligence Centre within the Corporate Technology Support Services Sector.
He noted that the system reduces decision-making and bus deployment time from 30–60 minutes to less than one minute, significantly improving response speed and operational efficiency.
Built on AI and Dataiku
The system has been developed using RTA’s Artificial Intelligence Centre and the enterprise Dataiku platform, enabling real-time analysis and faster operational decision-making.
According to RTA, these technologies improve process management while strengthening the authority’s position in applying artificial intelligence to urban mobility.
Real-time control and smarter deployment
Using real-time data, machine learning and optimisation algorithms, the system identifies the most suitable buses and dispatches them instantly based on operational needs.
The Bus Operations Control Centre plays a central role in maintaining service continuity and ensuring smooth public transport operations across Dubai.
With the introduction of the AI-powered system, RTA says bus operations will become more efficient, proactive and data-driven, supporting improved reliability and a better passenger experience.
