Dubai's RTA to send real-time alerts about water accumulation on roads during rains

[Editor's Note: Follow Khaleej Times live blog for the latest updates as the UAE deals with heavy rains and unstable weather conditions.]

Dubai drivers will get instant, real-time alerts about water accumulation on roads as part of a revamped weather response system designed to reduce traffic delays and keep commuters safe during storms.

The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has deployed a unified communication platform that tracks flooding across the city in real time, with field teams and smart systems working together to ensure drivers are immediately informed of hazardous conditions.

“We studied past rainfall and flooding, identified high-risk areas, and prepared targeted plans for pumps and tankers,” said Mohammed Al Ali, Director of the Enterprise Command and Control Department and Second Deputy of the Crisis and Emergency Team at RTA.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp channels.

“Smart systems now help us react faster, reduce traffic delays, and keep roads safer with real-time updates and instant alerts to drivers,” he added.

How the system works

A unified communication platform that tracks and reports water accumulation across Dubai’s road network is at the heart of the new monitoring system. Field teams and concerned departments provide regular real-time updates on the platform, ensuring all stakeholders — from RTA operations staff to emergency responders — are instantly informed of on-ground conditions.

“The data is simultaneously monitored and stored through advanced smart systems, allowing accurate record-keeping and supporting future analysis and planning,” Al Ali said.

He added that it allows RTA to make faster, more informed decisions about road safety and that roads are only fully closed when “absolutely necessary” to protect public safety. In such cases, drivers are guided to alternate routes to ensure smooth movement and minimise disruption.

Zone strategy

The monitoring system is supported by a broader operational overhaul that divides Dubai into dedicated flood-response zones. Each zone is managed by a dedicated team equipped with more than 500 tankers, 380 pumping units, 100 emergency vehicles, and 1,300 technical staff.

The strategy was developed after the record-breaking rains of April 2024, when the country received an estimated 250mm of rain in 24 hours — more than what it typically receives in a full year. That storm overwhelmed parts of the city’s infrastructure, leading to widespread traffic disruption and the temporary closure of several Dubai Metro stations.

Beyond immediate response measures, Dubai has committed to a long-term investment programme in flood defence infrastructure. The new works are designed to serve 30 key areas across the emirate, covering 430 million square metres — a zone projected to support a population of three million residents by 2040.

Command centre

Central to the new strategy is the Joint Weather Conditions Command Room, where RTA uses advanced technology to monitor and manage operations in real time. The team at the authority’s main control room manages live monitoring, reporting, emergency calls, and coordination with senior management and other control centres.

“Representatives from each RTA transport mode are also present to share real-time updates on public transport, roads, and services,” Al Ali said. “In addition, strategic partners such as Dubai Police, Civil Defence, and Ambulance teams work alongside us. This setup ensures accurate information flow, fast decision-making, and immediate support when needed — helping us manage traffic efficiently during any situation.”

The monitoring and response systems are complemented by physical infrastructure upgrades. Following the April 2024 floods, RTA identified vulnerable points across the Metro network and implemented future-proof solutions to ensure flooding does not recur. Protective barriers were installed at vulnerable stations, and identified problem areas were addressed.

Advice for drivers

With unstable weather expected to continue until Friday, accompanied by scattered rainfall and strong winds, RTA has urged drivers to remain vigilant.

“Drivers' safety is our top priority,” Al Ali said. “We remain committed to ensuring safe mobility and a quick recovery from any disruptions.”

He added that drivers are advised to stay alert, plan their trips in advance, and adjust their driving according to weather and road conditions.