5:31 pm - February 14, 2026
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) of Dubai has embarked on an ambitious initiative to deploy robotic cleaner drones at metro and tram stations, aiming to revolutionise the maintenance of public transport facilities. In partnership with Keolis MHI, the operator responsible for maintaining Dubai’s transit systems, this pioneering project seeks to improve operational efficiency while addressing environmental sustainability.
Historically, facade cleaning at metro stations has required substantial manpower, often encompassing teams of up to 15 individuals. However, with the introduction of drone technology, the RTA reports that this requirement can be reduced to just eight personnel, a decrease of over 50%. This not only streamlines operations but also significantly mitigates the risks associated with high-altitude work, where employees are often at risk when accessing complex areas.
According to Mohammed Al Ameeri, Director of Maintenance at RTA’s Rail Agency, this pilot initiative highlights the authority’s commitment “to adopting innovative technologies that enhance safety, optimise resources, and support Dubai’s sustainability goals.” The drone-based cleaning solution stands out for its efficiency and reduced water usage per station, aligning closely with Dubai’s broader environmental strategy. Al Ameeri emphasised that “working with Keolis MHI on this initiative provides many opportunities,” suggesting a collaborative vision for enhancing infrastructure maintenance through advanced technologies.
While traditional cleaning methods offer greater detail and flexibility in certain situations, the trial of drone-assisted cleaning has provided significant insights. The RTA and Keolis MHI are actively evaluating the potential for a hybrid model that could incorporate both drone and conventional techniques, balancing the benefits of sustainability, effectiveness, and operational efficiency. This exploration into innovative maintenance techniques complements a series of other high-tech initiatives led by the RTA, aimed at enhancing the overall sustainability and safety of Dubai’s public transport system.
Keolis MHI, which began its operations in Dubai’s Metro and Tram networks in September 2021, plays a crucial role in this process. The company, in collaboration with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, is not only tasked with the operation of these transit systems but is also exploring various technological advancements, such as integrating traditional maintenance modalities with automated solutions.
Further enhancing its operational capabilities, the RTA and Keolis MHI have recently developed a digital platform for inspecting metro and tram stations, optimising inspections and monitoring passenger behaviour in real time. This system serves to streamline operational efficiencies while encouraging compliance among passengers, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable urban transport ecosystem.
As cities worldwide explore the integration of technology in urban infrastructure, Dubai stands at the forefront with its commitment to smart mobility and sustainable practices. In this context, the implementation of drone technology for cleaning is not merely a functional upgrade but is indicative of a larger shift towards embracing automation and innovation in public service management.
The considerable strides made through this initiative reflect a proactive approach to urban maintenance that resonates with Dubai’s vision for a sustainable future, combining modern technology with a dedication to worker safety and environmental responsibility. As the RTA continues to refine its methods, the distinction between conventional and advanced maintenance strategies may well define the future of urban transport services in the region.
Reference Map
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Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.arabianbusiness.com/industries/transport/dubai-uses-robot-cleaner-drones-to-clean-metro-stations – Please view link – unable to able to access data
- https://www.arabianbusiness.com/industries/transport/dubai-uses-robot-cleaner-drones-to-clean-metro-stations – Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with Keolis MHI, has initiated a pilot project deploying robot cleaner drones to clean the facades of Dubai Metro and Tram stations. This innovative approach aims to reduce manpower requirements by over 50%, utilizing a smaller team of eight personnel compared to the traditional 15. The drone-based solution also minimizes potential risks associated with working at heights and complex access areas. Additionally, the technology is designed to use less water per station, aligning with RTA’s environmental sustainability goals. Mohammed Al Ameeri, Director of Maintenance at RTA’s Rail Agency, emphasized that this initiative reflects RTA’s commitment to adopting innovative technologies that enhance safety, optimize resources, and support Dubai’s sustainability objectives. The trial has provided valuable insights into the potential of drone-assisted cleaning, with RTA and Keolis MHI evaluating opportunities to integrate both traditional and drone-based methods for a hybrid model that balances sustainability, effectiveness, and operational efficiency.
- https://www.keolis-mhi.com/newsroom/press-releases/uae-keolis-wins-15-year-contract-to-operate-dubai – In March 2021, Keolis, in partnership with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engineering (MHI) and Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), secured a 15-year contract to operate and maintain Dubai’s Metro and Tram networks. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) awarded the contract, which includes a nine-year base period with a possible six-year extension, valued at approximately 125 million euros annually. This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency and safety of Dubai’s public transportation system, aligning with the city’s vision for smart and sustainable mobility. ([keolis-mhi.com](https://www.keolis-mhi.com/newsroom/press-releases/uae-keolis-wins-15-year-contract-to-operate-dubai?utm_source=openai))
- https://www.keolis-mhi.com/newsroom/press-releases/rta-develops-integrated-system-to-enhance-passenger-experience-at-metro-and-tram – In March 2025, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in collaboration with Keolis MHI, developed an integrated digital platform to enhance passenger experience by overseeing inspection operations at metro and tram stations. This system automates inspection procedures and monitors passenger violations, such as unauthorized use of the Gold Class cabin and misuse of designated spaces for women. It also optimizes the deployment of fare inspectors by identifying high-priority areas requiring increased monitoring. The platform enables real-time monitoring of inspectors’ performance and ticket inspection activities, issuing live updates and generating analytical reports on operational outcomes. During major events, inspection teams are deployed at high-footfall stations based on multi-source data analysis, predicting areas more prone to violations and ensuring a faster and more effective response. Additionally, the system records passenger data to identify repeat offenders and educate them on the importance of adhering to regulations. This initiative aligns with RTA’s strategy to automate inspection procedures and revamp monitoring operations, contributing to a more sustainable transport ecosystem by reducing resource consumption and promoting environmentally friendly practices. ([keolis-mhi.com](https://www.keolis-mhi.com/newsroom/press-releases/rta-develops-integrated-system-to-enhance-passenger-experience-at-metro-and-tram?utm_source=openai))
- https://www.keolis-mhi.com/newsroom/press-releases/rta-underlines-commitment-to-innovating-dubai-metro-maintenance-operations – In August 2022, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in partnership with Keolis-MHI, the operator of Dubai Metro and Tram, undertook three key projects to enhance metro maintenance operations using cutting-edge technologies. One of the advanced technologies deployed is Sightcall, an augmented reality application on mobile devices that enables live, remote expertise to support diagnosis and quick resolution of complex system faults. Since its deployment, Sightcall has significantly reduced response times to incidents, proving to be a major driver of performance improvement. Considering Dubai Metro’s assets are spread over a network of more than 90 kilometers for both Red and Green lines, the integration of portable handheld technology to manage defects accurately and efficiently in real-time aligns with RTA and Dubai’s Paperless strategy. ([keolis-mhi.com](https://www.keolis-mhi.com/newsroom/press-releases/rta-underlines-commitment-to-innovating-dubai-metro-maintenance-operations?utm_source=openai))
- https://www.mhi.com/news/210922.html – In September 2021, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engineering (MHIENG), a group company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, began operations of Dubai Metro, a fully automated driverless rail system, and the Dubai Tram network in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The services are operated through Keolis-MHI Rail Management and Operation LLC (Keolis-MHI), a consortium led by Keolis, a subsidiary of France’s SNCF (French National Railway Company) Group, and Mitsubishi Corporation. The business concession had been awarded to Keolis-MHI and includes the Dubai Metro, an urban rail network inaugurated in 2009, and the Dubai Tram that started operating in 2014. The contract with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) covers a maximum of 15 years: 9 years plus a 6-year option. This project marks MHIENG’s first direct participation in operating an urban rail transport system outside of Japan. Keolis-MHI will also be responsible for the maintenance of Dubai Metro, contributing to building safe and smooth transport systems worldwide. Dubai Metro will be providing critical transportation for the EXPO 2020 Dubai that started on 1 October 2021. ([mhi.com](https://www.mhi.com/news/210922.html?utm_source=openai))
- https://www.mhi.com/news/21032301.html – In March 2021, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engineering (MHIENG), a group company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, received an order for a concession relating to two transportation systems serving Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The agreement calls for operation and maintenance of the Dubai Metro, a fully automated, driverless rail system, as well as operation of the Dubai Tram network. The concession order, placed by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), was received by MHIENG as part of a consortium to be newly formed with Keolis SA, which is a member of France’s SNCF (French National Railway Company) Group, and Mitsubishi Corporation. The Dubai Tram went into operation in 2014 and covers a total of 10.6 km linking the rapidly developing Marina district, site of Dubai’s major skyscrapers. Users enjoy riding the tram both for its convenience and comfort and also for its beautiful views of the surrounding areas. Under the newly concluded concession agreement, MHIENG’s significant experience in urban railway systems and carriages, and the robust track record of Mitsubishi Corporation for rolling stocks, will join forces with Keolis’s expertise in operating public transport networks as a world leader in automated metros and trams with operations in 30 cities worldwide to collaborate with RTA in operation and maintenance. MHIENG has abundant experience coupled with outstanding operating rates, having already provided high-quality operation and maintenance services in countries including the United States, Singapore, Qatar, and the Philippines. In the UAE, since 2018 the Company has provided operation and maintenance services for the Automated People Mover (APM) linking the concourses in Dubai International Airport. Through active participation in the UAE’s transportation infrastructure projects, MHIENG will continue to contribute to local economic development, enhance regional convenience, and provide solutions to address traffic congestion and other local issues. Applying its accumulated and well-proven technologies and abundant track record in oversight of EPC projects, MHIENG today is undertaking development of diverse products and systemization of technologies incorporating digital and AI advancements in new areas within the transportation field. Through these endeavors, the Company will continue aiming to provide customers with operation and maintenance services of high added value, and will further develop its after-sales service operations, including participation in business concessions. ([mhi.com](https://www.mhi.com/news/21032301.html?utm_source=openai))
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
9
Notes:
The narrative discusses a recent initiative involving drone cleaning technology in Dubai’s metro system with references to Keolis MHI starting operations in September 2021 and recent developments. There is no indication of outdated information or recycled news. The presence of recent partnerships and projects suggests the content is current. It is not a press release but does cite some recent press releases from Keolis MHI for background, which typically support high freshness ratings.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
The article quotes Mohammed Al Ameeri, Director of Maintenance at RTA’s Rail Agency, with no earlier online citations found contradicting or preceding this. The quoted statements align with official RTA communications and press releases, indicating original sourcing. The quotes appear genuine and likely from direct interviews or official statements.
Source reliability
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative originates from Arabian Business, a known business publication covering the Middle East region, generally considered reliable for regional business and transport news. Additional references include official press releases from Keolis MHI and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which are credible corporate sources, though corporate PR can be optimistic. Overall, the information’s reliability is reasonably strong given these sources.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The claims about introducing robotic drone cleaning to metro and tram stations are plausible given recent technological trends and Dubai’s known focus on innovation and sustainability. The collaboration with Keolis MHI and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries supports credibility. The details about manpower reduction and water efficiency are logical operational benefits. No contradictory information was found.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): HIGH
Summary:
The narrative is fresh and reflects recent developments in Dubai’s public transport maintenance. Quotes are original and credible, and the publication alongside referenced corporate sources is reliable. Claims are plausible and consistent with Dubai’s innovation priorities. The report stands as a trustworthy account of the drone cleaning project.
