Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall Uses Robots To Enforce Social Distancing

by Vaishnavi Venkataraman
Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall Uses Robots To Enforce Social Distancing

The next time you visit Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall, you will spot a new technique to remind you to follow social distancing. Yas Mall now has robots patrolling to help keep shoppers safe during the Covid-19 pandemic. Earlier, videos of a creepy four-legged thing crawling around in Singapore surfaced. These robot made its way into city parks, politely asking joggers and cyclists to stay apart.

On that note, in case you’re planning a trip to Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, here’s what you must not miss. 

How Does It Work?

The mall uses two robots, equipped with surveillance and thermal cameras. Each robot pair are fitted with seven cameras each, a face-recognition technique and intercom devices.

The robots around the mall night and day to report live to the operations room. The new technique ensures hi-fi safety throughout the mall. The cameras capture people who aren’t wearing a facemask and reports the same to the control room. The visitors are then reminded to put on their masks. Furthermore, the robots also alert the control room in case there are any social gatherings over the permissible number.

Credits: The National
Credits: The National

In addition, the robots can interact with customers, since it is directly connected to the control room. Guests who are lost or want to know more information can approach the robot. The movement of the robots is remotely controlled by operators from the control room. Apart from this, the robots are also installed with sensors that prevent them from bumping into people and objects.

Apart from mall and shopping, Yas island also has a lot to offer for adventure junkies. Here’s a list of all the adventure rides in Yas Island.  

Other Regulations At Abu Dhabi’s Yas Mall

The mall has also taken other initiatives to ensure there is no direct contact. iPads are installed at the information desk and customers can speak to an agent through video conference. All mall maps and information screens are also replaced with contactless alternatives.

A special security guard with a bodycam, and facial recognition software, transmits messages to the control room during emergencies. These guards are come of help in situations when the customer’s temperatures were too high after repeated testing. Such customers are taken to the mall’s isolation room and the concerned authorities are informed. On that note, here’s a list of Abu Dhabi’s new rules for all those entering the emirate.