Abu Dhabi’s innovative highway safety initiative has produced remarkable results, with authorities reporting zero fog-related traffic fatalities since the implementation of an electronic alert system in 2019. The advanced warning system utilizes color-coded electronic sensors and signboards that automatically notify police when visibility deteriorates on the emirate’s highways.
Upon detecting hazardous conditions, the system enables law enforcement to immediately broadcast safety alerts to motorists within a 1-2 kilometer radius, instructing them to reduce speed and exercise extreme caution. The color-coded system functions with red and blue signals indicating accidents ahead, while flashing yellow signs mandate speed reduction during poor visibility episodes.
A police representative detailed the mechanism at the Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX) and Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX), drawing parallels to pandemic-era emergency messaging: “We warn road users through messages similar to COVID-19 alerts previously deployed.”
The comprehensive road safety strategy forms part of Abu Dhabi’s broader vision to eliminate traffic fatalities entirely. The emirate has additionally launched a predictive artificial intelligence system to further enhance accident prevention capabilities.
Authorities emphasized that compliance with the electronic warnings is mandatory, with radar enforcement actively monitoring vehicle speeds during alert conditions. Motorists failing to adhere to the instructions face potential fines, ensuring the system’s effectiveness through both technological innovation and regulatory enforcement.