Dubai’s RTA unveils AED278 million street lighting project to boost road safety

Credit: Roads and Transport Authority

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that it has recently awarded a contract worth AED278 million for a comprehensive street lighting project covering 40 districts and streets, as part of the ambitious Street Lighting Plan 2023-2026.

His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer, the Director-General, and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, said: “The main goal of this plan is to improve traffic safety and security for all road users, including vehicles and pedestrians. The initiative is designed to contribute to residents’ and visitors’ wellbeing and satisfaction in the targeted areas.”

The selection of areas for this project has been meticulous, taking into account factors such as traffic safety and security standards, traffic volumes and the pace of urban growth. The Street Lighting Plan employs the latest smart and sustainable lighting technologies specifically designed for the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) climatic conditions.

Al Tayer emphasised the commitment to energy conservation practices, explaining, “We have utilised the latest smart and sustainable lighting technologies that are specially designed for the UAE’s climatic conditions. These innovative lighting systems use energy-efficient LED technology, providing a 55% reduction in energy consumption and a 173% increase in lifespan.”

Dubai Tram achieves record-breaking 52 million rides milestone

The benefits of implementing these advanced technologies extend beyond energy efficiency. The longer lifespan reduces the need for frequent lamp replacements, resulting in lower maintenance and operational costs for RTA.

As part of the Street Lighting Plan, RTA has initiated projects in 2023 for Al Qusais Industrial Areas 1 to 5, Al Lusaily, and Lahbab 1 and 2, with the project nearly completed. In 2024, the installation of streetlights will extend to previously unlit roads in Mirdif, Al Baraha, Oud Metha, Al Waheda, Al Hudaiba, Al Satwa, Abu Hail, and Al Bada’a. In addition, lighting installations will encompass various locations, such as Umm Suqeim, Al Safa, Al Manara and Jumeirah.

The timeline for the Streetlighting Plan outlines further expansion in 2025 and 2026, covering areas such as Umm Al Sheif, Al Sufouh, Al Quoz Residential Areas, Nad Al Hamar, Al Awir, Al Mamzar, Oud Al Muteena, Al Garhoud, Al Twar, Business Bay, Ras Al Khor Industrial Areas and many more.