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.
