Today's Edition
YOUSUF SAIFUDDIN KAPADIA (ABU DHABI)
As part of its ongoing efforts to develop a smart and sustainable mobility system, the Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has announced the activation of a smart traffic light system (Ramp Metering) to regulate vehicle flow at seven main entry points leading to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street in the coming period.
This makes Abu Dhabi one of the pioneering cities to implement this advanced system on its roads.
The system relies on sensors and smart AI-powered cameras to monitor traffic in real time.
How does it work?
It automatically adjusts traffic light timings according to traffic density, reducing the number of vehicles allowed to enter during peak hours and increasing it when traffic is lighter.
This precise adaptability helps to regulate vehicle flow and improve road efficiency.
The Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) has announced the activation of the Ramp Metering system at key entry points leading to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street. pic.twitter.com/bZyiKe3ZWn
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ITC confirmed that the system will be activated specifically when traffic congestion is detected, with the technology adapting instantly to operating conditions on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street to ensure the highest levels of flexibility and operational efficiency throughout the day.
Seven entry points
The system will be applied to seven key entry points leading to Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street: Shakhbout bin Sultan Street, Dhafeer Street, and Hadbat Al Ghubainah Street (outbound), in addition to Salama bint Butti Street, Al Dhafra Street, Rabdan Street, the Umm Yifina Street exit (inbound).
Commenting on the launch, Dr Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said: “The launch of the smart traffic light system to regulate vehicle flow marks a significant step in traffic management, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader in adopting innovative mobility solutions.
"Thanks to artificial intelligence and smart systems, we can now monitor and analyse traffic density in real time, enabling us to manage vehicle flow with high precision. This improves traffic fluidity, reduces congestion, and directly contributes to enhancing quality of life and strengthening the sustainability of the emirate’s transport system.”
This smart system is part of a series of development projects aimed at improving mobility experiences, enhancing road safety, and meeting the needs of Abu Dhabi’s growing population and economy.
Earlier in August 2025, Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) adopted a smart digital platform, "Data Drive – Clear Guide," dedicated to studying and analysing historical and real-time traffic flow on the emirate's roads over the past five years, in addition to real-time traffic data.
This enables relevant authorities to analyse numerous traffic-related elements, instantly identify road conditions, analyse road speeds, identify recurring traffic patterns, identify times of smooth traffic flow, congestion points, traffic jams, and other traffic elements.
A recent study showed that more than half of car users in Abu Dhabi drive alone, a trend that could be contributing to the persistent traffic congestion reported across the emirates,
The survey, conducted by RoadSafetyUAE in partnership with Al Wathba Insurance, was based on responses from 1,021 UAE residents in June 2025.
The study found that 51% of Abu Dhabi motorists travel without any passengers. The figure is slightly higher for the UAE overall, at 54%, with Sharjah recording the highest solo-driver rate at 62%, followed by other emirates at 56%, and Dubai at 53%.
The report suggested that legal carpooling could be a viable strategy to reduce the volume of vehicles. Encouraging people heading to the same destination to travel together in a single vehicle could significantly reduce congestion, although this could bring regulatory and logistical challenges.
