Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a significant increase in its digital revenues, surpassing AED 3.705 billion ($1 billion) in 2023. This marks a 16.8% rise from the previous year, driven by the growing use of AI-powered services for journey planning, parking, and top-ups of nol cards.
Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors at RTA, emphasized the authority’s commitment to digital transformation. “In 2023, the number of registered users on RTA’s digital service channels reached 1.404 million, a 20% rise compared to 2022. RTA’s apps were downloaded over 3.056 million times from app stores,” Al Tayer said.
Digital Growth and AI-Powered Innovation
The total number of digital transactions processed through RTA’s platforms surged to 821 million, reflecting a 1% increase compared to 2022. Notably, transactions conducted through RTA’s smart apps jumped to 15.299 million, representing a 29% increase.
As part of its ongoing digital transformation, RTA has focused on enhancing customer experience, achieving a 95% satisfaction rate across its apps. This 2% improvement from the previous year highlights the authority’s success in providing seamless and proactive services.
Among the key advancements, RTA launched an upgraded version of its Mahboob Chatbot, now powered by ChatGPT, offering more human-like responses and enhanced data security for users. In addition, 30 new smart kiosks were introduced across 21 locations, contributing AED 309 million ($84.1 million) in revenue, a 12% increase compared to 2022.
New Digital Services and Unified Platforms
RTA rolled out an updated version of the RTA Dubai app, which includes AI-driven parking predictions across 190,000 locations and an NFC-based nol top-up feature that allows users to instantly update their balance without visiting public transport stations. Additionally, the Dubai Drive app now offers a vehicle plate transfer service and UAE PASS login, streamlining processes for users.
The authority also launched an updated S’hail app, which features a variety of new services, such as activating bicycle and e-scooter lanes, showing taxi stand locations, and providing event information in partnership with the Department of Economy and Tourism. The app’s journey planner feature, complete with a QR code, saw 18 million journeys planned in 2023 alone.
Future-Proofing RTA’s Digital Transformation
RTA’s 360 Services initiative is reshaping how services are delivered, with the launch of 63 online services in 2023, including fine payments, marine transport rentals, and commercial shop rentals. The “Invest with RTA” platform was also introduced, allowing investors to explore ongoing contracts with the authority.
In addition, the RTA integrated its services with the Dubai Now app, offering experiences like vehicle registration renewal and insurance integration, streamlining the process for customers. The 360 Services plan has also introduced new offerings under the Emirati Package and Higher Committee for Development and Citizens Affairs.
As RTA continues its digital journey, its innovative AI-powered services and focus on user satisfaction are expected to further cement Dubai’s position as a global leader in smart city infrastructure.
