Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has introduced drones to inspect tunnels on the Dubai Metro network, bringing a major improvement in safety and efficiency. The new system has reduced inspection time by around 60 percent, making the process faster while also lowering risks for workers.
This initiative has been launched in collaboration with metro operator Keolis MHI. By using drones, inspection teams can now easily access areas inside metro tunnels that were previously difficult or dangerous to reach. In the past, workers had to manually enter these spaces, which required more time and exposed them to potential safety hazards.
The drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras and advanced imaging technology. They provide clear and detailed visuals of tunnel walls, ceilings, and infrastructure, along with a wider field of view. This allows engineers to carefully assess the condition of the tunnels, identify maintenance needs early, and ensure smooth and safe metro operations, all while keeping personnel out of harm’s way.
The use of drones for tunnel inspections is part of Dubai Metro’s wider digital transformation strategy. The RTA has already adopted drone technology for several other tasks, including cleaning traffic signals and metro station facades. These initiatives help reduce manual labor, improve operational efficiency, and support environmental sustainability by cutting down on resource use and disruptions.
Overall, this move reflects Dubai’s continued focus on smart technology and innovation to improve public transport services, enhance safety standards, and deliver more reliable and sustainable urban infrastructure.
