Dubai Crown Prince inspects flood-response unit, smart bus station

Dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has reviewed a set of specialised transport projects under development by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), including a rapid response vehicle, a smart bus station and new soft mobility parking facilities.

The briefing covered the status and aims of the projects, part of Dubai’s broader push to upgrade transport systems and integrate advanced technology into public services.

Among the projects is a rapid intervention vehicle designed to operate during heavy rain and emergencies while helping maintain traffic movement. Developed by the RTA, the vehicle is equipped with four pumps with a combined capacity of about 60,000 litres per minute. Authorities say this matches the output of 10 conventional pumps or around 25 water suction tankers, reducing disruption caused by water accumulation on roads.

Sheikh Hamdan said the range of projects reflects a shift in how urban mobility is planned, with a focus on innovation and technology to improve efficiency and quality of life. He added that Dubai aims to accelerate the use of smart and sustainable solutions while maintaining high service standards for residents and visitors.

During the visit, he also inspected a near-complete smart bus station on Sheikh Zayed Road in Al Barsha 2, near Mall of the Emirates.

The station is designed as a fully digital, contactless facility, integrated with the nol card system and the S’hail application. It includes AI-enabled cameras to manage crowd flow and detect violations, as well as environmental sensors to monitor conditions such as air quality. Solar panels have been installed to reduce energy use.

The RTA said the project is about 90 per cent complete, with full delivery expected by the end of April.