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Dubai’s RTA uses drones to clean metro and tram stations

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has started using drones to clean the outside of metro and tram stations. This new idea, launched with Keolis MHI, the company that runs and maintains the Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, is part of RTA’s efforts to use smart and sustainable technology.

This is a big change from the usual way of cleaning station facades, which often needs up to 15 workers per station. The drone method needs only 8 people, cutting manpower by more than half and reducing the risks that come with working at heights or in hard-to-reach areas.

Mohammed Al Ameeri, Director of Maintenance at RTA’s Rail Agency, said: “This project shows our commitment to trying new technologies that keep workers safe, use fewer resources, and help protect the environment. Using drones for cleaning is a smart way to maintain our stations and support Dubai’s sustainability goals.”

He also explained that drones use less water and reduce the need for workers to be in risky spots. “Working with Keolis MHI on this trial brings new opportunities. As we improve these automated tools, we can keep making our transport systems safer and greener,” he added.

The drone trial is already giving useful insights. While traditional cleaning still offers better results in some areas, drones are showing great potential. RTA and Keolis MHI are now looking into combining both methods to get the best results, more efficient, safe, and eco-friendly.

Vikas Sardana, Chief Operating Officer at Keolis MHI, said: “We’re proud to support RTA’s goals and Dubai’s vision for a smart and green city. This drone project is a step forward in making public transport safer, smarter, and more sustainable.”

He added: “The trial also supports Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Smart Dubai initiative. It’s part of our mission to bring smart technology to city services and help shape the future of urban transport.”

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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UAE Central Bank fines local bank Dh3 million over anti-money laundering failures

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The Central Bank of the UAE (CBUAE) has imposed a financial penalty of Dh3 million on a local bank for failing to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

The fine was issued under Article 14 of Federal Decree Law No. (20) of 2018 on Anti-Money Laundering and Combatting the Financing of Terrorism and Illegal Organisations, as well as Article 137 of the Decretal Federal Law No. (14) of 2018 concerning the Central Bank and regulation of financial institutions.

The CBUAE said the penalty followed an investigation which found that the bank had not met regulatory requirements outlined in UAE legislation to combat financial crime.

In a statement, the Central Bank reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the transparency and integrity of the country’s financial system. “We continue to supervise and regulate all licensed financial institutions to ensure full compliance with UAE laws, regulations, and standards,” the authority said.

The name of the bank was not disclosed.

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Dubai’s RTA steps up inspections of buses to ensure safety

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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has urged transport operators to strictly follow regulations covering all modes of passenger transport, including chartered buses, tourist services, and international bus trips.

This comes after RTA completed over 15,500 inspections targeting operators in these sectors, as part of ongoing efforts to raise service standards and ensure safety.

“The inspections weren’t just about issuing violations,” said Saeed Al Balooshi, Director of Passenger Transport Activities Monitoring at RTA. “They’re designed to improve service quality and ensure operators meet the rules that keep Dubai’s transport sector running smoothly.”

Checks included verifying safety measures onboard and ensuring all required licences were in place. The RTA also teamed up with other authorities, including Dubai Police and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs at Hatta Border Post, to tackle misuse and irregularities in cross-border transport services.

Al Balooshi added that the authority is using new technologies to make inspections more effective by analysing violations and measuring the impact of enforcement campaigns. “Our goal is to ensure a reliable and high-quality experience for residents, visitors, and tourists, and to protect the reputation of Dubai’s public transport sector,” he said.

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New paid parking zones announced in Abu Dhabi

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Residents and motorists in Abu Dhabi should take note: new Mawaqif paid parking zones have been activated in several areas across the city, Q Mobility announced on Thursday, July 10.

The newly introduced paid zones include:

  • Eastern Mangroves
  • Dolphin Park
  • Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street sectors – specifically at Al Khaleej Al Arabi Park 1, 2, 4, and 5
  • Al Qurm Plaza

The rollout of the Mawaqif system in these areas is now officially in effect, aligning with Abu Dhabi’s parking regulations.

  • Standard Parking – black and blue curbs:
    • Dh2 an hour
    • Dh15 for 24-hour parking
  • Premium Parking Abu Dhabi – white and blue curbs: AED 3 an hour

According to Q Mobility, this move is part of ongoing efforts to better regulate vehicle movement, ease congestion, and improve the overall efficiency of public parking across the emirate. The changes follow the completion of infrastructure upgrades such as curb painting, installation of directional and awareness signage, and public notifications.

The company has also encouraged drivers to make use of the Darb app for digital payment and to carefully follow posted instructions to avoid fines.

The expansion of Mawaqif is part of a broader strategy aimed at improving traffic flow and providing smarter, more streamlined parking solutions within Abu Dhabi Island and beyond.

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