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Dubai RTA Pilots Drones for Traffic-Signal Cleaning as Early Tests Cut Time and Costs

The program targets safer maintenance by removing manlifts during cleaning operations.

Overview

  • Initial runs at the Marrakech Street–Rebat Street junction used short traffic closures to maintain public safety.
  • Early measurements showed one side of a signal could be cleaned in three to four minutes.
  • Operational time fell by 25–50% and estimated costs dropped by up to 15% compared with conventional methods.
  • RTA will continue the pilot with a next phase to refine techniques, ensure high safety standards, and avoid disrupting traffic flow.
  • Officials say savings could reach about 25% as drone technology improves, building on earlier drone cleaning trials for metro and tram station facades.