Dubai Trackless Tram 2026: Driverless Electric Tram Project & New Bus Lanes Announced
Dubai is set to revolutionize urban transportation with the introduction of a driverless trackless tram system by 2026, alongside the expansion of dedicated bus and taxi lanes across the emirate. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) confirmed that these initiatives aim to reduce traffic congestion, improve public transport efficiency, and support Dubai’s rapid population growth.
Dubai Trackless Tram 2026: What We Know So Far
The proposed Dubai trackless tram project will operate as a fully autonomous, electric-powered system that runs without traditional rails. Instead of fixed tracks, the tram follows a virtual track using camera-based detection of painted road markings.
Key Features of Dubai’s Driverless Trackless Tram
- Fully autonomous (driverless) operation
- 100% electric-powered and environmentally friendly
- No rail infrastructure required
- Three connected carriages per tram
- Passenger capacity of up to 300 people
- Maximum speed of 70 km/h
- Operating speed between 25–60 km/h
- Lower construction cost compared to traditional trams
The RTA is currently studying implementation at 8 locations across Dubai, making this one of the most innovative public transport projects in the UAE.
Why Trackless Tram Technology?
Unlike conventional tram systems such as the Dubai Tram, the trackless tram does not require steel rails embedded into roads. This significantly reduces construction time, infrastructure costs, and disruption to traffic.
The system combines:
- Smart navigation technology
- Artificial intelligence
- Camera-based lane detection
- Sustainable electric mobility
This makes it a flexible and cost-effective public transport solution for growing urban areas.
Dubai Expands Dedicated Bus and Taxi Lanes (2025–2026)
In addition to the trackless tram project, Dubai’s RTA will expand dedicated bus and taxi lanes by 13 km over the next two years. Once completed, the total length of exclusive public transport lanes will reach 20 km.
New Dedicated Lane Locations
The six new corridors will be introduced on:
- Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah Street
- 2nd of December Street
- Al Satwa
- Al Nahda
- Omar bin Al Khattab Street
- Naif Street
Private vehicles using these lanes illegally will face a Dh600 fine.
Expected Benefits
The RTA expects the expansion to deliver:
- 10% increase in public transport ridership
- 42% improvement in bus punctuality
- 41% reduction in bus journey times
Addressing Dubai Traffic Congestion
Dubai has experienced a 10% increase in vehicle numbers over the past two years, significantly higher than the global average of 2–4%. To address congestion, the government is implementing multiple strategies, including:
- New road infrastructure projects
- Dynamic toll and parking pricing
- Heavy vehicle movement restrictions
- Encouraging flexible and remote working policies
Studies suggest flexible work policies alone could reduce traffic congestion by up to 30%.
Dubai Public Transport Growth in 2025
Dubai recorded 802 million public transport, taxi, and shared mobility users in 2025, with an average daily ridership of 2.2 million passengers.
The RTA continues to expand:
- Dubai Metro
- Dubai Tram
- Bus networks
- Marine transport
- Shared mobility services
Artificial intelligence is also being integrated into data management and customer journey design, strengthening Dubai’s position as a global smart city leader.
Dubai’s Vision for Smart and Sustainable Mobility
The Dubai Trackless Tram 2026 project highlights the emirate’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and smart mobility solutions. By combining electric transport, autonomous systems, and intelligent infrastructure planning, Dubai is shaping the future of urban transportation in the Middle East.
As the city grows, these forward-thinking initiatives will play a crucial role in making Dubai one of the best cities in the world to live, work, and visit.