Free WiFi from Dubai lamp-posts on Sheikh Zayed Road?

Dubai residents may be in for free WiFi via lamp-posts on Sheikh Zayed Road as part of the smart lighting systems being tested out by the emirate's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) in line with its strategic objectives of people's happiness.

Dubai's RTA has showcased the latest technologies and smart apps used globally in smart lighting at Gitex 2016.

"A new feature in the smart lighting systems is a tentative WiFi service installed in Dubai Water Canal at Sheikh Zayed Road," Maitha bin Adai, CEO of RTA's Traffic and Roads Agency, said in a media statement.

It is not clear if the service will be paid-for or free, but bin Adai noted that the initiatives echo RTA's "strategic objectives of people's happiness".

The step is in the context of RTA's ongoing endeavours to keep up with best practices in line with the Smart City Initiative launched by Dubai government, the agency noted in the statement.

Among the other 'smart' initiatives displayed by the RTA at Gitex is the HD pedestrian detection camera system which not only provides security for pedestrians but can also generate pedestrian statistics in terms of number, sex and age group.

"The trio-systems, which support the green economy requirements by reducing carbon emissions, include the Central Wireless Road Lighting Control System that sets multiple synchronised timetables for dimming streetlights. It can reduce energy consumption, increase lamps lifetime and cut road lighting maintenance costs," said bin Adai.