Dubai:Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has reinforced its commitment to safer and smarter mobility through the extensive deployment of Dynamic Message Signs (DMS) across the emirate, helping reduce journey times by up to 20 per cent on key road corridors.The RTA currently operates 112 electronic DMS units strategically positioned along Dubai’s main road network. Integrated with the advanced iTraffic intelligent traffic management platform, the system delivers real-time information to motorists, including alerts on accidents, congestion, road closures, vehicle breakdowns, and adverse weather conditions.
According to the RTA, the DMS system plays a vital role in improving road safety by providing early warnings and guiding drivers away from incident-prone areas. Messages are displayed in sequential stages and at calculated distances, ensuring drivers receive timely and clear guidance that helps prevent sudden braking and secondary accidents.
Salah Al Marzouqi, Director of Intelligent Traffic Systems at RTA’s Traffic and Roads Agency, said the system automatically generates multiple alert zones based on incident location. These include warning messages starting two kilometres before an incident, followed by congestion alerts closer to the site, and diversion guidance in less congested areas to smooth traffic flow.
He added that Dynamic Message Signs are among the most effective real-time communication tools with road users. “They are essential for managing traffic during major events, handling diversions, supporting road safety awareness campaigns, and broadcasting live travel times,” he said. RTA has allocated 22 DMS boards specifically to display travel times to key destinations such as Dubai International Airport and Dubai Marina, enabling drivers to make informed route choices.
During the first half of 2025, the DMS system displayed 17,819 messages, with accident-related alerts accounting for the largest share at 12,283 messages. These were followed by congestion alerts, warning messages, breakdown notifications, and advisories related to weather conditions, roadworks, and full road closures.
The DMS network is supported by a wide range of field sensors, including traffic volume and speed detectors, travel time monitoring systems, and weather stations. Data from these sources is analysed by the iTraffic platform using artificial intelligence and big data analytics, allowing rapid decision-making and, in some cases, automatic responses during emergencies such as fog or heavy rainfall.
RTA stated that the continuous enhancement of the DMS system aligns with Dubai’s vision to become a leading smart city that places people’s safety and comfort at the heart of its transport infrastructure, ensuring smoother, safer, and more reliable journeys for residents and visitors alike.
