The future has arrived for the Dubai Metro!
The future is here and now – we could be paying with our palms at Metro gates very soon. RTA’s booth at GITEX this year has revealed the possibility of a brand new technology that could be integrated into our public transport – palm scan gate access.
Yes, it sounds like something straight out of a Bond film, but it’s not just fantasy. This could become our reality soon, leveraging the power of Artificial Intelligence and the virtual Metaverse.
This entire system will enable Metro users and commuters to move seamlessly without a physical Nol card, as it links your palm to the card. Just swipe your palm at the gate, and you’re in—it’s a whole new way to pass through!
At the RTA’s stand at Gitex Global, a presentation detailed how this system works. When you swipe your palm at the smart gate, the necessary amount will be automatically deducted from your linked Nol card.
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“We’re currently testing it at our center of excellence at RTA, and it will take at least a year and a half to ensure full reliability and quality. Only then can we bring it to market, aiming for a rollout by 2026 or later,” said Salah Almarzooqi, director of the Automated Collection System at the authority, as reported by Khaleej Times.
These cutting-edge projects and smart initiatives focused on AI aim to improve traffic efficiency and elevate the public transportation system for city commuters. The bigger vision is to enhance the quality of life and make Dubai the ultimate place to live.
Some standout examples of these advancements include the ongoing flying taxis project and the recently unveiled plans for a futuristic driverless pod rail system. The Floc Duo Rail is a sleek, self-driving electric pod system that could offer a hassle-free way to get around Dubai.
Capable of operating both in the air and on the ground, these autonomous pods would travel on dual tracks within ‘urban clusters.’ They could facilitate direct A to B journeys or transport multiple passengers to various transport networks, like the Dubai Metro.
