Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with Keolis MHI, the operator of Dubai Metro and Tram, has initiated a pilot program utilizing drone technology to clean the facades of metro and tram stations. This innovative approach aims to enhance operational efficiency, reduce human intervention, and support the city’s sustainability goals.
Traditionally, cleaning station facades required up to 15 personnel per station. The new drone-based method reduces the team size to eight, cutting human involvement by 50% and minimizing risks associated with working at heights. Additionally, drones offer high cleaning efficiency in record time while maintaining quality standards.
Mohammed Al Amiri, Director of Maintenance at RTA’s Rail Agency, emphasized that this pilot project reflects RTA’s commitment to adopting innovative technologies that enhance safety, improve resource efficiency, and support Dubai’s sustainability goals. He noted that drone technology contributes to reducing the technical team’s exposure to hazards and economizes water consumption, aligning with the agency’s environmental strategy.
Vikas Sardana, Chief Operating Officer of Keolis MHI, expressed pride in supporting RTA’s strategic objectives and Dubai’s vision to transform into a smart and sustainable city. He highlighted that the pilot’s encouraging results bring them closer to achieving a safer, smarter, and more sustainable transportation system for Dubai’s residents.
The pilot project demonstrates the feasibility of using drones in cleaning operations. While traditional methods still offer greater flexibility and precision for some tasks, this new technology represents a promising starting point for further development. RTA and Keolis MHI are exploring the possibility of combining drone and traditional methods into a hybrid model that balances sustainability, effectiveness, and operational efficiency.
