This system offers advanced capabilities, including recognising license plates of wanted vehicles, identifying speeding cars, and detecting other violations, such as drivers smoking, talking on the phone, or being distracted. It is one of several smart technologies deployed by Sharjah Police to improve traffic management and public safety, including drones for traffic surveillance and facial recognition tools. “The vehicle also features an anti-theft system,” he added. 

Advancing traffic safety and innovation

As technology transforms industries across the globe, law enforcement is embracing innovation to better serve the public. Major Dr. Saeed Mohammed Bin Hada, Director of the Innovation Branch at Sharjah Police, is leading a progressive overhaul of traffic management and public safety in Sharjah. His strategy focuses on leveraging cutting-edge technologies and fostering collaboration to create safer and smarter roads.

A central aspect of Major Bin Hada’s vision is upgrading Sharjah’s traffic monitoring infrastructure. By deploying smart surveillance systems and artificial intelligence, Sharjah Police can now analyse traffic patterns in real time. This data-driven approach not only helps manage congestion but also supports better traffic planning and law enforcement operations.

Speeding remains a major road safety challenge. To combat this, Major Bin Hada has introduced predictive technologies that detect speeding violations before they occur, enabling quicker interventions. Automated systems that monitor speed limits have already demonstrated their potential to reduce accidents and encourage responsible driving.

A critical component of Sharjah Police’s strategy is using big data analytics to monitor and analyze driver behaviour. By identifying patterns such as aggressive driving or distractions, authorities can implement targeted initiatives, from awareness campaigns to adjustments in road infrastructure, to improve overall driver safety.

Speaking to Gulf News on the sidelines of the Sharjah Security Innovation Forum, Colonel Mohammad Alay Al Naqbi, Director of the Sharjah Traffic and Patrol Department, said that the department, in collaboration with the Transport Authority (RTA), has recently rolled out a cutting-edge patrol system aimed at enhancing traffic management and emergency response across Sharjah. This system, developed in cooperation with Sharjah Police, is designed to streamline traffic flow, particularly during critical events like government convoys or emergencies.

One of the system’s standout features is its ability to automatically synchronise traffic signals citywide. When a priority vehicle, such as an emergency responder or convoy, approaches, the system automatically adjusts traffic lights to create clear, uninterrupted lanes, ensuring these vehicles can move swiftly without delay.

Additionally, the system can instantly respond to emergency reports, activating lane openings to allow urgent vehicles to reach their destinations without obstruction.

This integration of advanced technology with real-time traffic management represents a major leap forward in public safety and efficiency. As the patrol system becomes fully operational, it is set to greatly improve traffic flow and response times in high-priority situations, benefitting all drivers across Sharjah.

These innovative patrols were showcased at an exhibition held alongside the inaugural Sharjah Security Innovation Forum, which launched on Monday. As the first event of its kind, the forum emphasises the critical role of the private sector, companies, and development organisations in advancing modern security technologies. The event was attended by several shaikhs and senior police officials from the UAE. 

The Sharjah Police have made notable strides in fostering innovation, registering intellectual properties, and setting up innovation incubators.

Here are some key achievements:

These initiatives highlight Sharjah Police’s commitment to driving security innovation and setting new standards for modern law enforcement.