We’re all familiar with road rage caused by the daily traffic clogging up our journey to and from work (you’re not alone in this!). It is an exhausting experience to stand still for hours when your commute could’ve concluded in 30 minutes or so. The good news, Dubai is taking another step towards a smarter, more sustainable commute. Plans are now in place to roll out a self-driving, trackless tram system that will connect with the Dubai Metro. This will reduce road congestion across the city and ensure seamless commute during peak hours (now isn’t this relieving hear!). Senior officials from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have revealed that a comprehensive study for the project is expected to be completed by mid-2026. If you want to learn more about how this project can save you time on your commute, keep reading!
Also Read: Dubai Metro Is Expanding: Here’s Everything You Need To Know About The Blue Line
Smart & Sustainable Way To Move Around The City
Designed to support Dubai’s growing population, the trackless tram will be an eco-friendly, electric public transport system that operates without fixed rails. High-ranking officials at the Rail Maintenance Department at RTA’s Rail Agency shared that the project will play a key role in easing traffic congestion. While traffic control is a much-needed perk, this new project will contribute to Dubai’s goal of making 25% of all transport smart and driverless by 2030. Unlike traditional trams, the new system uses a “virtual track” with advanced navigation technologies. This includes optical sensors, GPS, and LiDAR.
Fixed Routes With Faster Travel Times
First announced in November 2024 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Dubai Tram, the trackless trams will operate alongside cars and buses. Similar to the RTA buses, trackless trams will follow fixed routes with designated pick-up and drop-off stations. Each tram will feature three carriages and can carry up to 300 passengers! This is more than three times the capacity of a standard bus – which means more people on the tram and fewer drivers on the road!
Eco-Friendly & Cost Effective
Have you ever imagined commuting via an electric vehicle? Well, soon you can, as these new trams are now battery-powered. This helps reduce the environmental footprint and lowers construction and maintenance costs compared to conventional trams. The tram can travel up to 100 kilometres on a single charge. Trackless trams will also be quicker than the existing Dubai Tram. The futuristic vehicle will operate between 25 and 60 km/h, with a top speed of 70 km/h. The rubber-tyre design also makes them more manoeuvrable.
Trackless Trams Across Dubai – Yes Please!
Earlier announcements revealed that this project would initially cover eight locations across Dubai. Some high-ranking officials reveal that the number could increase. So far, there is no confirmation on this, nor do we know which areas will be included. What we do know is that the trackless tram project is progressing steadily. Moreover, it is expected to meet the city’s growing demand for an efficient, seamless public transport network. If you’d like to be the first to know all the latest updates on the trackless tram project, then keep reading Gulf Buzz!
