The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced a strategic collaboration with the United Nations Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science. This collaboration signifies a major step forward in the ongoing partnership between the two entities, focusing on the development of big data, artificial intelligence (AI), and data science for the enhancement of transport services and other public offerings by the RTA.
The primary goal of this collaboration is to empower the RTA’s data-driven transformation, facilitating informed decision-making and providing reliable data accessibility on both local and global scales. Within the RTA, nine dedicated teams have been established to address challenges related to methodology, quality, technology, data access, legislation, and privacy. These teams are also tasked with conducting comprehensive cost-benefit analyses utilising big data.
Mohammed Al Mudharreb, CEO of RTA’s Corporate Technology Support Services Sector, emphasised the critical nature of this collaboration in advancing RTA’s data capabilities. Al Mudharreb highlighted the importance of modern technologies, such as AI and the Internet of Things, in achieving Dubai’s ambition to become the world’s most intelligent and happiest city.
Active UN Committee Involvement
RTA, as an active member of the UN Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science, participates in two vital working groups. These groups focus on utilising mobile phone data for transportation statistics and providing training and capacity building in big data, data science, and AI. RTA’s dual role as co-chair and member plays a pivotal role in developing a comprehensive guide for effective use of mobile phone data in transportation planning and decision-making.
The collaboration aligns seamlessly with RTA’s vision to become a data-driven entity, supporting the UAE’s broader objectives of enhancing digital government services. By leveraging mobile phone data, building capacities, and fostering international collaboration, RTA aims to lead transportation innovation not only in the UAE but across the Middle East and North Africa.
Stefan Schweinfest, Director of the Statistics Division at the United Nations in New York, anticipates a fruitful cooperation with RTA in developing data-driven public policies and services for sustainable transportation. The collaboration aims to build capabilities in big data, AI, and data science for the Middle East and North Africa statistical community, contributing to global efforts in advancing data science.
The United Nations Committee of Experts on Big Data and Data Science, comprising around 31 countries and 16 international organisations, including the World Bank, plays a pivotal role in developing and sharing modern methods, technologies, and best practices in data science and big data. This collaboration reflects a broader commitment to global cooperation and the utilisation of innovative methods to advance data science.
