Dubai: The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai is taking bold steps toward integrating quantum technology into its operations to tackle real-world transportation challenges such as traffic congestion prediction, autonomous vehicle navigation, and public transport optimisation.
Supporting Dubai’s Smart City Vision
This initiative places RTA among the first government bodies in the region to explore quantum computing, communication, and cybersecurity within the transport sector. It aligns with Dubai’s broader vision of building a future-ready, smart city powered by advanced technologies and sustainable infrastructure.
A Quantum Leap in Mobility Innovation
The adoption of quantum solutions is expected to significantly improve the performance of smart mobility systems, bolster digital security, and accelerate the city’s shift toward data-driven transportation infrastructure. The initiative targets key areas such as mobility networks, infrastructure efficiency, and intelligent transport systems.
Scientific Workshop on Quantum Communication
As part of this forward-thinking approach, RTA held a workshop titled “Quantum Communication and Its Applications in Smart Infrastructure,” in collaboration with global technology firm Cisco. The session brought together domain experts and representatives from RTA’s technical and engineering teams to explore the foundational principles, research advancements, and practical applications of quantum technologies.
The workshop highlighted the transformative role of quantum communication, computing, and cybersecurity—especially in ensuring secure data transmission, improving decision-making through high-speed data processing, and strengthening protection against future cyber threats.
Focus Areas of Quantum Adoption
- Quantum Communication: A highly secure data transmission method using photons (light particles), which ensures confidentiality and real-time detection of any data breaches. RTA sees potential for integrating this across various sectors to enhance operational resilience.
- Quantum Computing: Offers unprecedented data processing capabilities. RTA envisions its use in predicting traffic congestion, analysing transport patterns, and improving route planning for autonomous and public transportation systems.
- Quantum Cybersecurity: Using next-generation, intrusion-resistant encryption algorithms, this technology will help secure RTA’s smart infrastructure, digital platforms, and internal networks against evolving cyber threats.
RTA is working closely with international research institutions and strategic technology partners to study the application of quantum innovations across multiple domains. The goal is to build a secure, adaptive, and sustainable digital ecosystem that meets the demands of Dubai’s rapidly evolving urban landscape.
