Riyadh, November 5, 2024 – The Road Safety and Sustainability Conference and Exhibition concluded its sessions on Monday, wrapping up an insightful and impactful event hosted by the Roads General Authority (RGA) on November 3 and 4. The conference, which attracted over 1,000 road safety experts, specialists, and professionals from more than 50 countries, focused on the theme "Innovating for Tomorrow." It provided a valuable platform for in-depth discussions on critical issues in road safety, sustainability in transportation, and the role of emerging technologies in shaping the future of mobility.
Throughout the event, participants engaged in a series of high-level sessions aimed at exploring strategies to enhance traffic safety while promoting sustainable transport solutions. The conference featured prominent ministerial sessions that facilitated the exchange of knowledge and insights on cutting-edge technologies, innovative practices, and governmental policies aimed at reducing emissions and improving road safety standards worldwide.
One of the highlights of the conference was the presentation of over 130 scientific papers, which covered a wide range of topics, from smart traffic management systems to AI-driven solutions for improving vehicle safety. In addition, 27 innovations and technologies were showcased, emphasizing the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) and intelligent transportation systems (ITS) in revolutionizing traffic management, enhancing vehicle safety, and minimizing environmental impacts on urban infrastructure.
The conference concluded with a set of key recommendations that emerged from discussions and debates. Among these, the increased integration of AI into smart traffic signal systems stood out as a priority. AI-powered traffic signals are expected to optimize traffic flow, reduce congestion, and lower carbon emissions, contributing to both safety and environmental sustainability. Additionally, recommendations included rethinking the design of road intersections to incorporate higher engineering standards, such as wider turning radii and restrictions on heavy vehicles during peak hours, which would help reduce accident frequency and improve overall safety.
The event also highlighted the need for better lighting at critical points, especially in rural and highway settings, to enhance visibility and reduce accidents, particularly during nighttime driving. The adoption of renewable energy sources for public lighting was recommended as an essential step in advancing sustainable infrastructure that contributes to both road safety and environmental goals.
A significant focus was placed on improving traffic safety in areas with high pedestrian traffic, such as near schools and mosques. The conference stressed the importance of using data analytics and real-time information to refine preventive safety measures and called for greater collaboration between local authorities, community leaders, and social organizations to raise awareness about road safety. The role of community engagement was seen as vital in driving successful safety programs, which would include increased funding, training, and awareness efforts.
The conference also proposed the expanded use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to identify optimal locations for emergency centers, particularly in high-traffic areas. GIS-based mapping could help pinpoint areas where timely emergency responses are most critical. Further recommendations included setting up dedicated lanes for autonomous vehicles as a preparatory measure for their future integration into road systems, along with the development of dynamic traffic management systems that adjust to environmental and traffic conditions in real time.
These forward-looking recommendations reflect the growing recognition of the need for smart, data-driven, and environmentally sustainable approaches to road safety and transportation. The conference emphasized the importance of early adoption of AI technologies and dynamic systems that allow transportation infrastructures to evolve in line with future needs. Moreover, the use of mobile phones and cloud computing was also proposed as a cost-effective method for collecting data and monitoring traffic flows, which could lead to more efficient management and safer road conditions.
The collective aim of these recommendations is to improve road safety, reduce traffic accidents, and enhance overall quality of life, not just for drivers but for all road users. The conference reaffirmed that the success of these initiatives depends on continued collaboration among governmental bodies, transportation authorities, community organizations, and the private sector.
In alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the RGA's ongoing efforts to implement these recommendations are poised to transform the Kingdom’s transportation sector, ensuring safer, more sustainable, and technologically advanced road systems. Through these forward-thinking strategies, Saudi Arabia seeks to position itself as a global leader in innovation and sustainable urban mobility, ultimately improving the quality of life for its citizens and residents.
