RTA explores adoption of quantum technologies to advance smart mobility

emirates7 - Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is actively exploring the integration of quantum technologies across three principal areas: quantum communication, quantum computing, and quantum cybersecurity.

This initiative focuses on transforming critical sectors such as transportation, mobility systems, and smart infrastructure. Its goals include elevating the performance of intelligent systems, accelerating the shift to smart mobility, and strengthening digital security. Alongside these priorities, RTA aims to enhance data protection, promote sustainability and innovation, and anticipate emerging trends.

To advance this effort, RTA organized a dedicated scientific workshop titled “Quantum Communication and Its Applications in Smart Infrastructure”, in partnership with Cisco, a global leader in networking and cybersecurity. The event brought together expert speakers in quantum communication and participants from RTA’s technical and engineering divisions, as well as specialists from external partners.

The workshop covered essential principles of quantum communication, showcased current research breakthroughs, and explored practical applications of this advancing technology. Topics included the aims of quantum communication, fundamentals of quantum mechanics, quantum computing and networking, and innovations in quantum cybersecurity. Presentations also highlighted insights from leading international research endeavors.

Key findings reaffirmed that quantum communication offers strategic advantages—delivering unmatched data security and ultra-fast transmission speeds, which can streamline operations and enable deeper system integration among critical agencies.

By embracing quantum technologies, RTA is positioning itself as a pioneer among government bodies in the region, particularly within the transportation sector. Quantum advancements are expected to revolutionize multiple industries, leveraging state-of-the-art solutions grounded in quantum physics. These technologies offer outstanding capabilities in secure communications, rapid data processing, and advanced analytics.

RTA’s quantum adoption aligns closely with the Government of Dubai’s foresight and future-focused agenda. It underlines the authority’s dedication to adopting robust, efficient digital solutions, maintaining a competitive edge in global innovation, and proactively integrating advanced technologies into infrastructure and mobility management.

With support from strategic partners and research institutions specializing in quantum communication, computing, and cybersecurity, RTA has assembled a dedicated team. This team is actively evaluating the application of quantum solutions across a range of sectors and operational areas, with the overarching objective of building a digital infrastructure that is secure, resilient, sustainable, and capable of keeping pace with rapid technological progress.

Among the quantum technologies under consideration:

Quantum Communication: This next-generation data transmission method uses photons to guarantee confidentiality and to detect any unauthorized access or tampering. It presents strong potential for deployment across RTA’s various operational domains.

Quantum Computing: Offering powerful processing capabilities for massive datasets and complex scenarios, quantum computing could be applied to model transport and traffic flows, predict congestion, route autonomous vehicles, and optimize scheduling for public transit systems within RTA.

Quantum Cybersecurity: By deploying highly resistant algorithms, quantum cybersecurity solutions aim to protect RTA’s operational platforms, smart infrastructure, and internal networks from both present-day threats and future cyberattacks.

In summary, RTA’s exploration of quantum technologies marks a significant leap toward a smarter, more secure, and future-ready transport ecosystem—anchored by innovation and aligned with Dubai’s strategic vision.