Dubai pilots AI to detect smoking in taxis, enhances cleanliness standards
Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has begun testing artificial intelligence (AI) to identify smoking violations inside taxis.
Using in-car cameras, the pilot initiative aims to enforce the UAE’s public transport smoking ban, though details on the specific AI technology were not disclosed.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance taxi services across the emirate. Alongside the AI-driven detection system, the RTA is trialing “high-quality air fresheners” in over 500 airport taxis to improve passenger experience.
Adel Shakri, Director of Planning and Business Development at the Public Transport Agency, highlighted additional measures, including intensified inspection campaigns to promote vehicle cleanliness and expanded awareness and training programs for drivers and instructors.
To maintain high cleanliness standards, the RTA has introduced a monthly operational index to monitor cleanliness-related observations per 100,000 Hala Taxi trips. It will also deploy customer satisfaction surveys and mystery shopper assessments semi-annually starting in 2025.
“These measures aim to ensure a clean and comfortable experience for passengers while enhancing the operational efficiency of the taxi fleet,” Shakri said.
