Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to launch a facial recognition payment system for public transport. Announced ahead of GITEX 2023, which begins tomorrow, the RTA will showcase this smart gate technology, which relies on artificial intelligence and metaverse technologies, at the tech event.
How the system works
The smart gate will demonstrate how facial recognition can be used to pay fares on the Dubai Metro, Tram, buses, taxis, and marine transport. The need for tickets, nol cards, or credit cards will be eliminated. Users will be registered and identified, with their face images converted into bio data and payments deducted directly from their accounts. This initiative aims to improve operational efficiency, simplify transaction processing, and minimize cash handling.
Additional innovations
- Vehicle Plate Transfer: RTA’s Dubai Drive app will facilitate the transfer of vehicle plate ownership. Users can finalize sales procedures with the digital ID “UAE PASS”, obviating visits to service centers. Transactions are authenticated with e-signatures.
- 3D Abra: The world’s first Abra manufactured using 3D printing will be showcased. Capable of carrying 20 passengers, this eco-friendly vessel retains traditional Abra designs. The project aims to boost Dubai’s 3D printing strategy, reduce manufacturing time by 90%, cut costs by 30%, and align with RTA’s environmental sustainability goals.
- Predictive Parking: Utilizing AI and big data, RTA will offer parking occupancy predictions based on past transactions and inspection data, available through RTA’s smart apps. This enables advanced trip planning.
Mattar Al Tayer, the Director General of RTA, highlighted the organization’s commitment to embracing technology to enhance efficiency and service quality. He emphasized that these projects align with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for a digitally advanced and globally competitive Dubai.
Al Tayer also mentioned numerous upcoming RTA projects, such as smart control centers, self-driving transport, and the incorporation of the Internet of Things, AI, and other 4th Industrial Revolution technologies. RTA’s future focus is on transforming 25% of Dubai’s transport into autonomous journeys by 2030, with plans to deploy 4,000 autonomous vehicles by that year in collaboration with GM Cruise.
