Dubai reviews new smart transport projects: Dubai Loop and Glydways
Image used for illustrative purpose. Photo: WAM
DUBAI: Dubai is moving ahead with new smart transport projects to make travel faster and easier. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed two major plans called Dubai Loop and Glydways during the World Governments Summit 2026. Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) leads both projects.
These new transport systems will improve public transport in Dubai. They will also help people travel short distances between stations, homes, offices, and malls. As a result, daily trips will become smoother and quicker.
Sheikh Mohammed visited the RTA stand at the summit. During the visit, RTA Director-General Mattar Al Tayer explained how the projects work and why they matter for Dubai’s future. He also showed how modern technology will support both systems.
First, officials shared details about the Dubai Loop project. This project will build underground tunnels to carry passengers across busy areas of Dubai. The tunnels will reduce road traffic and save travel time. In addition, workers can build them quickly with less cost and less road disruption.
The first phase includes a 6.4-kilometer route with four stations. It will connect the Financial District with Dubai Mall. After that, teams will expand the project to 22.2 kilometers with 19 stations. The full route will connect the Trade Centre, Financial District, and Business Bay areas. Therefore, more people will reach key business zones with ease.
Next, Sheikh Mohammed reviewed the Glydways project. This system uses small driverless electric vehicles. These vehicles run on special narrow tracks, not regular roads. Because of this, they avoid traffic jams and keep moving.
Passengers can book rides on demand at any time, day or night. The vehicles travel directly to the chosen stop without extra waiting. So trips become shorter and more direct.
Each vehicle carries four to six passengers. They run on electric power and can travel up to 250 kilometers on one charge. They can reach speeds of up to 50 km/h. Moreover, engineers built the system with strong safety features and backup controls to keep passengers safe.
The Glydways system also cuts costs. It can lower building costs by up to 90 percent and running costs by up to 70 percent compared to other transport systems. In addition, teams can install it quickly. Public and private partners can also work together to fund and run the network. This step increases investment efficiency.
Overall, Dubai continues to invest in smart and sustainable transport solutions. Leaders want Dubai to rank among the world’s top cities for future mobility. These new projects will improve quality of life and support city growth. At the same time, they will give residents and visitors more clean and reliable travel choices.
The World Governments Summit 2026 brings together world leaders, ministers, and business executives. They meet to share ideas and present new government and technology projects.
