Roads & Transport Authority - News Details

A group of participants in the 11^th edition of the Dubai International Project Management Forum (DIPMF) visited a range of Dubai’s iconic landmarks, flagship projects and distinguished initiatives, encompassing both newly launched developments and long-established destinations. The programme included visits to the Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Centre, the Autonomous Abra, Autonomous Vehicles, The View at Palm Jumeirah, Deep Dive Dubai, and Dubai Frame.

The Roads and Transport Authority, represented by the forum organisers and in coordination with the relevant authorities, provided detailed explanations about the nature of the projects that were visited and the services they provide, in addition to reviewing the lessons learned and best practices in planning and implementation, and the pivotal role of project management in driving innovation in infrastructure and smart city projects, which contributes to enhancing Dubai’s position as a leading city to live and work globally.

Participants in the forum, representing a range of Gulf, Arab and international countries, praised the diverse and dynamic experiences and the distinctive services they encountered, in addition to the landmark destinations they visited. Each site was recognised as a creative icon exemplifying excellence in engineering, innovation, design, management, and service delivery.

Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Centre

Forum participants visited the Dubai Intelligent Traffic Systems Centre, a core smart mobility hub operated by the RTA. The centre plays a central role in monitoring, managing and optimising traffic flows across the Emirate through the use of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, big data analytics, the Internet of Things, and integrated communications networks.

Autonomous Vehicles

Participants were introduced to Dubai’s Autonomous Vehicles programme, which marks a significant step towards reshaping the city’s mobility landscape through technology-driven innovation. The visit allowed participants to see how automation, connectivity and sustainable design come together to improve efficiency and safety across urban roads.

The experience also gave project management leaders a practical understanding of multi-disciplinary collaboration, from integrating emerging technologies and managing pilot projects to scaling solutions across citywide systems. It highlighted how informed planning and agile execution can turn smart mobility strategies into real-world solutions.

Autonomous Abra

During the visits, participants were introduced to the Autonomous Abra, launched by RTA, which offers a clear example of how smart mobility and innovation are shaping the future of urban infrastructure. The vessel was locally designed and built by RTA teams at Al Garhoud Marine Workshop, accommodates eight passengers, operates with zero carbon emissions, and achieves a 30% reduction in operating and maintenance costs, while running silently. Its design carefully preserves the traditional identity of the abra.

The visit aimed to provide project management leaders with valuable insights into the practical application of automation, sustainability and digital transformation in large-scale public projects, by showing how technology and data-driven design can modernise and enhance traditional transport systems.

The View at Palm Jumeirah

Forum guests were introduced to The View at Palm Jumeirah, recognised for its expansive 360-degree vistas. Rising 240 metres above the iconic Palm Jumeirah, the landmark stands as a notable engineering achievement, offering panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s dynamic skyline, while reflecting the city’s capacity to translate dreams into realities.

Deep Dive Dubai

Forum participants expressed their admiration during their visit to Deep Dive Dubai, the world’s deepest swimming pool, reaching a depth of 60 metres and containing approximately 14 million litres of warm water. Inspired by the UAE’s rich pearling heritage, the facility offers an immersive, purpose-designed environment that evokes the ruins of a submerged city, complete with walls, furnished rooms and a sunken vehicle. The venue also functions as an underwater film studio and attracts both professional and novice divers, delivering a distinctive experience that encourages deeper exploration and discovery.

Dubai Frame

Forum guests enjoyed their visit to Dubai Frame, an iconic architectural landmark designed in the form of a monumental picture frame rising 150 metres in height and spanning 93 metres in width. The structure symbolically links old and modern Dubai, offering panoramic views alongside distinctive experiences, including walking across a transparent glass floor and an elevated glass bridge. It also features immersive digital exhibitions that present Dubai’s past, present and future through advanced audiovisual storytelling, delivered within a striking architectural setting and contemporary interactive facilities, creating an integrated experience that reflects Dubai’s transformation into a thriving global city.