Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in cooperation with Keolis MHI, the operator and maintainer of Dubai Metro and operator of Dubai Tram, has launched a pioneering initiative deploying drone technology to clean the façades of Dubai metro and tram stations. The initiative is part of RTA’s commitment to exploring future-ready solutions that enhance safety, optimise resources, and support environmental goals.

This trial marks a significant shift from conventional façade cleaning methods, which traditionally require up to 15 personnel per station. The drone-based solution operates with a smaller team of eight people, significantly reducing manpower needs, minimising potential risks associated with working at height or in complex access areas while provides a more efficient solution.

Mohammed Al Ameeri, Director of Maintenance at RTA’s Rail Agency, says: “Trialling drone-based façade cleaning is a step towards smarter maintenance practices that reduce environmental impact and safeguard worker well-being, fully aligned with our strategy to transform mobility services across the city.”

“Drones reduce the need for workers to be exposed to high-risk areas, while using less water per station which is a meaningful contribution to our environmental strategy. Working with Keolis MHI on this initiative provides many opportunities, and with the continuous development and enhancement of automated solutions, we can support safer, greener infrastructure maintenance,” he adds.

The trial has already been providing valuable insights into the potential of drone-assisted cleaning. While traditional methods still offer greater flexibility and detail in some areas, the drone solution presents an exciting starting point for future refinement. RTA and Keolis MHI is evaluating opportunities to blend both approaches for a hybrid model that balances sustainability, effectiveness, and operational efficiency.

Vikas Sardana, Chief Operating Officer at Keolis MHI, says: “We’re proud to support RTA’s strategic objectives and Dubai’s vision of a smart, sustainable city through this partnership. This trial produced adequate results that bring us closer to a safer, smarter, and more sustainable transit system for the people of Dubai.”

“This trial supports the broader vision of RTA to transform public transport through innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Aligned with Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and Smart Dubai initiative, the drone-based cleaning trial reflects Keolis MHI’s dedication to being an active partner in shaping the future of mobility and urban services,” he states.

The RTA, in collaboration with Keolis MHI, has also developed an integrated system to drive innovation and enhance the passenger experience through a digital platform that oversees inspection operations at metro and tram stations.

The platform further enhances the operational efficiency of Dubai Metro and Tram in line with RTA’s strategy to automate inspection procedures and revamp monitoring operations, it states.

The system represents a major step forward in digitising inspection operations and monitoring passenger violations, such as the unauthorised use of the Gold Class cabin by Silver nol cardholders and the misuse of designated spaces for women.

It also optimises the deployment of fare inspectors, identifying high-priority areas that require increased monitoring to detect and curb violations effectively. The system enables real-time monitoring of inspectors’ performance and ticket inspection activities, with the capability to issue live updates and generate analytical reports on operational outcomes.

During major events, inspection teams are deployed at high-footfall stations based on multi-source data analysis, which helps predict areas more prone to violations, ensuring a faster and more effective response.

According to RTA, this cutting-edge technology also supports urban sustainability efforts by reducing resource consumption, promoting environmentally friendly practices, and fostering a more sustainable transport ecosystem.

The system includes a specialised centre dedicated to strengthening inspection oversight and violation monitoring at Dubai Metro and Tram, ensuring optimal resource utilisation and real-time tracking of operational activities.

Equipped with live monitoring screens, it enables instant oversight of ticket inspectors, ensuring swift responses to violations, particularly those affecting passenger safety and comfort, he added.