Dubai Police Deploy Smart Cameras to Enhance Road Safety
Dubai Police have embarked on a large-scale rollout of advanced smart cameras capable of detecting up to 17 different traffic violations, including engine modifications that increase vehicle noise levels. These innovative devices can also determine whether drivers and passengers are wearing seatbelts, marking a significant step forward in road safety and traffic management.
After three years of testing on specific road sections, the cameras are now being installed across the emirate. The system allows for automatic violation detection through photos and short video clips, enabling fines to be issued without human intervention. While the exact locations of the cameras remain undisclosed, authorities have confirmed that the majority of existing traffic cameras have been upgraded with this cutting-edge technology.
Brigadier Mohammed Ali Karam, Director of the Dubai Police Traffic Technology Department, highlighted the sophistication of the system. He explained that the cameras utilize infrared technology to capture clear images of drivers and passengers, even through tinted windows. Whether a driver is wearing black clothing or not, the absence of a seatbelt will be detected. A ten-second video clip and a photograph of the violation serve as sufficient evidence to issue a fine.
Drivers caught not wearing seatbelts face fines of up to 400 dirhams and four black points on their licenses. The new cameras also monitor hand movements to detect if drivers are using their phones while driving. According to statistics, distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents, making this feature a critical addition to Dubai’s road safety measures.
In addition to seatbelt and phone usage violations, the cameras can identify vehicles with illegally modified engines that exceed permissible noise levels. Drivers of such vehicles risk fines of 2,000 dirhams and 12 black points.
Previously, police officers had to manually monitor intersections to catch violators. However, the new technology allows for instant fine issuance, streamlining enforcement and reducing the need for physical patrols. This initiative is part of Dubai’s broader strategy to transform into a smart city and enhance road safety through the adoption of modern technologies.
The deployment of these smart cameras underscores Dubai’s commitment to leveraging innovation to create safer and more efficient urban environments. As the system becomes fully operational, it is expected to significantly reduce traffic violations and contribute to a decline in road accidents across the emirate.
Source: The National
