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Explained: What Dubai’s new Automated Transit network is, and why it matters

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Dubai is preparing to take another leap in future mobility after the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) signed a cooperation agreement with Glydways, a global leader in Automated Transit Networks (ATN).

The partnership marks the launch of Dubai’s first automated transit network programme, aimed at transforming how people move short distances across the city, especially for first- and last-mile journeys.

So what exactly is an Automated Transit Network, and how could it change daily travel in Dubai? Here’s what you need to know.

What is an Automated Transit Network (ATN)?

An Automated Transit Network is a new transport system that uses small, autonomous electric vehicles running on dedicated guideways, separate from regular road traffic.

Unlike buses or trains that follow fixed routes with multiple stops, ATN vehicles provide:

  • On-demand, point-to-point travel
  • No intermediate stops
  • Shorter journey times
  • Personal, private rides rather than shared carriages

The system is fully autonomous and powered by AI, allowing vehicles to operate safely around the clock.

How is Glydways’ system different from traditional transport?

Glydways’ ATN vehicles run on compact, narrow guideways that can be built:

  • At ground level, or
  • Elevated above existing roads

Because the guideways are lightweight and narrow, they:

  • Require minimal construction space
  • Reduce disruption to roads and utilities
  • Are cheaper and faster to deploy than rail or metro systems

Each vehicle carries four to six passengers and can travel at speeds of up to 50km/h.

Is it safe?

Safety is a core feature of the system. Each vehicle is equipped with:

  • 20 high-resolution sensors
  • Advanced radar systems
  • High-definition cameras

The system enables virtual platooning, in which more than 10 vehicles can travel close together with just a one-second gap, while maintaining safety standards comparable to those of mass transit systems.

How many people can it carry?

Despite using small vehicles, the system has high capacity. According to RTA, the network can transport more than 20,000 passengers per hour in both directions, thanks to continuous, on-demand vehicle flow rather than scheduled departures.

Why is Dubai investing in this now?

RTA says the system could reduce:

  • Reduce congestion and emissions
  • Improve first- and last-mile connectivity
  • Complement existing public transport like the Dubai Metro
  • Capital costs by up to 90%
  • Operational costs by up to 70%
    compared to traditional transport infrastructure
  • It also delivers zero local emissions

Where will it operate first?

The agreement includes studies for several proposed routes, including:

  • A 2.8km pilot route linking National Paints Metro Station to Bluewaters Island

Other potential routes would connect Metro stations to major destinations such as:

  • Madinat Jumeirah
  • Alserkal Avenue
  • Times Square Centre
  • Dubai Festival City

Mattar Al Tayer, Director General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, said the initiative aligns with Dubai’s leadership vision to expand innovative transport solutions.

He noted that the project aims to:

  • Enhance quality of life
  • Improve public transport efficiency
  • Integrate future mobility modes into Dubai’s transport ecosystem

The big picture

If implemented at scale, Automated Transit Networks could:

  • Reduce reliance on cars
  • Make public transport more accessible
  • Offer a cleaner, quieter alternative for urban travel

For Dubai, this partnership represents another step toward becoming a global testbed for future mobility.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Will UAE petrol prices rise in August? Here’s what we know

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UAE motorists won’t have long to wait to find out whether fuel prices will increase in August, with the Fuel Price Committee set to announce the new rates on Thursday, July 31.

The revised petrol and diesel prices will take effect from August 1.

Will fuel prices go up?

After a welcome price cut in July, the outlook for August is less certain.

Global oil prices initially fell below $70 a barrel earlier this month, raising hopes of another reduction. However, prices have since rebounded sharply, clouding the picture for motorists.

Brent crude briefly climbed above $100 a barrel, while US benchmark WTI rose to nearly us$92. Abu Dhabi’s Murban crude also surged past us$105, reflecting renewed strength in global energy markets.

Because UAE fuel prices are based on average international oil prices over the month, the late-July rally could limit or even reverse last month’s cuts.

Current UAE fuel prices

Motorists are currently paying:

  • Super 98: Dh3.40 per litre
  • Special 95: Dh3.29 per litre
  • E-Plus 91: Dh3.21 per litre
  • Diesel: Dh3.60 per litre

These rates were introduced in July after global oil prices eased earlier in the summer.

How UAE fuel prices are set

The UAE reviews petrol and diesel prices every month based on average global crude oil and refined fuel prices.

The August rates will be announced on July 31 through official government channels and will come into effect the following day.

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UAE traffic fine: Why leaving your engine idling can cost you Dh500

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Abu Dhabi Police are urging motorists to switch off their engines and take their keys whenever leaving their vehicles, warning that even brief stops can increase the risk of theft, fires and other safety hazards.

The advisory applies to drivers stopping at shops, petrol stations, ATMs or mosques, where some motorists continue to leave vehicles unattended with the engine running.

Safety risks

Police said leaving a running vehicle unattended creates an opportunity for theft and could also lead to mechanical problems or fire-related incidents.

Motorists were also reminded never to leave children, especially infants, inside a running vehicle, describing the practice as a serious threat to their safety.

Traffic laws

Abu Dhabi Police also highlighted that UAE traffic laws prohibit leaving an unattended vehicle with its engine running.

Drivers who fail to comply with traffic rules and official instructions can face a Dh500fine under the Federal Traffic Law.

Authorities urged motorists to adopt safe habits by turning off the engine, removing the key and locking the vehicle every time they step away, no matter how briefly.

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Dubai Airports unveils smart gate pre-check for passengers

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Passengers travelling through Dubai International Airport (DXB) can now check if they’re eligible to use Smart Gates before reaching passport control.

Dubai Airports has introduced the new Smart Gates Pre-Eligibility Verification service in partnership with the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) to make immigration faster and reduce waiting times.

How it works

Travellers can instantly verify their Smart Gate eligibility through the Pocket Flights platform or by scanning QR codes placed across airport terminals and boarding gates.

The service lets passengers know in advance whether they can use the automated passport gates, helping them avoid uncertainty at immigration.

Faster airport experience

Dubai Airports says the new feature is part of its ongoing efforts to streamline passenger journeys and improve the overall airport experience.

By allowing travellers to confirm eligibility before reaching passport control, the airport aims to speed up immigration processing and make travel through DXB more seamless for millions of passengers each year.

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