RTA launches trial of 'Dubai Glydways' autonomous electric transport system

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has launched the trial operations of the "Dubai Glydways" autonomous transport system at Bluewaters Island.

The system relies on electric self-driving vehicles powered by artificial intelligence technologies, operating on dedicated tracks, in a new step within the RTA's efforts to develop a smart, integrated, and sustainable transport system.

The project plans include studying a 2.8km route connecting National Paints Metro Station with Bluewaters, strengthening integration with the public transport network, as well as routes serving Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Festival City, Business Bay and Mohammed Bin Rashid City.

The proposed routes will strengthen integration with Dubai Metro network and improve access to different destinations.

The trial will last four weeks where safety, reliability, journey times and passenger experience will be assessed before considering wider deployment.

The system can virtually link more than 10 vehicles with intervals of less than one second between them and each one accommodating between four and six passengers, operating at speeds up to 50 km/h and has a range of 250km on a single battery charge

It is equipped with an advanced suite of sensing technologies, including 20 high-resolution LiDAR sensors and is set to carry more than 20,000 passengers per hour in both directions.

It is viewed as a high efficiency mode of transport with capital costs expected to be reduced by up to 90 per cent and operating costs reduced by up to 70 per cent.

The trial operation builds on the cooperation agreement signed between RTA and Glydways to launch Dubai’s first automated transit network programme of its kind.

The initiative is designed to support the public transport system, broaden mobility options for residents and visitors, and improve access to Metro stations, key attractions and major destinations across the emirate.

#RTA has launched the trial operation of the Dubai Glydways automated transit system, introducing autonomous electric vehicles supported by artificial intelligence technologies and operating on dedicated guideways.

The trial marks another step in our efforts to develop a smart,… pic.twitter.com/NYi4wMJEnU

— RTA (@rta_dubai) October 11, 2026